Actor Fatty Arbuckle, one of the most popular movie stars during the silent film era, died June 29, 1933. He was 46.

Born Roscoe Arbuckle on March 24, 1887 in Smith Center, Kansas, he appeared in vaudeville as early as 1908, and began his film career in 1909 with Ben’s Kid.

Usually playing a comedic character, Arbuckle had a prolific year in 1913 when he appeared in 47 movies for Mack Sennett’s Keystone film company.

During his hey day, Arbuckle was second to Charlie Chaplin in popularity. He began directing his own films in 1914, and helped launch Buster Keaton’s film career.

By 1921 Arbuckle was at the top of his profession, but a scandal that year threw his career into a tailspin. He was arrested for the rape and manslaughter of an actress.

His films were banished from the screen. Later acquitted on the charge, Arbuckle attempted a comeback in 1923 by performing in nightclubs and vaudeville.

But before he could get things turned around, Arbuckle died in New York City on June 29, 1933.