Lyon, Ben, 1901-1979

Ben Lyon was an actor and studio executive known for playing in early sound films, as well as British media later in life. He was born on Feburary 06, 1901 in Atlanga, Georgia. Lyon first performed in Broadway stage plays before appearing in The Transgressor (1918). Lyon starred in the Hell's Angels (1930) as Monte Rutledge, playing alongside James Hall and Jean Harlow. Produced and directed by Howard Hughes, the film received praise for its flying sequences and was one of the highest grossing and most expensive sound films at the time of its release.

Lyon married actor Bebe Daniels on June 14, 1930, and would appear on a number of films, television shows, and radio series. He also appeared with his family on the BBC Light Programme series Life With the Lyons. Lyon later worked as an executive talent director for Fox, and is credited for screening Norma Jeane Doughery and suggesting the stage name "Marilyn Monroe." On February 08, 1960, Lyon was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Lyon died on March 22, 1979 aboard the Queen Elizabeth II cruise ship.

Sources:

"Ben Lyon." Hollywood Walk of Fame. December 09, 2020. Accessed October 20, 2021. https://walkoffame.com/ben-lyon/

"Ben Lyon." Hollywood Forever. January 29, 2002. Accessed October 20, 2021. https://hollywoodforever.com/story/ben-lyon/