Chaplin arriving at the service for Valentino in Hollywood
Valentino died in New York City from peritonitis on August 23rd, 1926, only a few weeks after the premiere of his film The Son Of The Shiek.
Upon hearing the news, Chaplin sent the following telegram to Valentino's manager, George Ullman:
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| via Valentino Forever |
Following an initial service in New York, Valentino's body was transported to Los Angeles by train and another service was held for him in Hollywood on September 7th. Chaplin suspended production of his film, The Circus, so he could attend the memorial.
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| Memorial service for Valentino. Chaplin is third from left. |
The death of Rudolph Valentino is one of the greatest tragedies that has occurred in the history of the motion-picture industry. As an actor he achieved fame & distinction; as a friend he commanded love and admiration.
We of the film industry, through his death, lose a very dear friend, a man of great charm and kindliness.--Chaplin's statement about the death of Valentino, Los Angeles Times, August 24th, 1926