James was born in New York City to William Gleason and Mina Crolius, who were both in the theatre. He was married to Lucile Webster, and has a son named Russell. As a young man, James participated in the Spanish-American War. After the war he joined the stock company at the Liberty theatre in Oakland which his parents were running. James and his wife moved Portland where they played in stock at th ...
show all James was born in New York City to William Gleason and Mina Crolius, who were both in the theatre. He was married to Lucile Webster, and has a son named Russell. As a young man, James participated in the Spanish-American War. After the war he joined the stock company at the Liberty theatre in Oakland which his parents were running. James and his wife moved Portland where they played in stock at the Baker theatre. For several years afterward they toured in road shows until James enlisted during World War I. When he returned he appeared on the stage in "The Five Million." He then turned to writing, including "Is Zat So", which he produced for the NY stage. He also wrote and acted in "The Fall Guy" and "The Shannons on Broadway." Next he wrote "The Broadway Melody" for MGM. He collaborated, in 1930, on "Swellhead", Dumbbells in Ermine", "What a Widow", "Rain or Shine" and "His First Command." He and his wife were then contracted to Pathe, Lucille to act, and James (or Jimmie as he was known) as a writer.
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