Stymie Beard was one of the most beloved child actors of the 1930s, thanks to his role as Stymie in the Our Gang short comedy films, also known as The Little Rascals. His trademark bald head and oversized derby hat made him a recognizable and memorable figure in American cinema. However, behind his charming and witty persona, Stymie Beard had a troubled and tragic life that mirrored his character’s struggles and triumphs. Here is a brief biography of Stymie Beard and how his life and death reflected his iconic role in The Little Rascals.
Early Life and Career
Stymie Beard was born on January 1, 1925 in Los Angeles, California, to Matthew Beard Sr. and Johnnie Mae Beard. His father was the founding pastor of Beloved Church of God in Christ in Los Angeles. Stymie had 13 siblings, four of whom also appeared in the Our Gang films. He was allowed to name most of his siblings, and he gave them names like Bobbie “Cotton”, Rene, Carlena, and Betty Jane.
Stymie began his acting career at the age of two, playing baby parts in many films. He was discovered by Hal Roach, the producer of the Our Gang series, who was looking for a replacement for Allen “Farina” Hoskins, the previous black child star of the series. Stymie was initially supposed to be named Hercules, but he earned his nickname from Robert McGowan, the director of the series, who was frustrated (“stymied”) by Stymie’s curious wanderings around the studio. McGowan later said that Stymie was his favorite of all the Our Gang kids.
Stymie joined the Our Gang series in 1930, at the age of five, and stayed until 1935. He appeared in 36 short films, making him one of the longest-running members of the gang. He was also one of the most popular and influential characters, as he was the leader of the gang and the source of many clever ideas and witty remarks. He was known for his self-assured, nonchalant, and slick-tongued personality, as well as his ability to offer sound common sense and solve problems. He was also the first black child actor to have a major speaking role in American cinema, and he broke many racial stereotypes and barriers with his positive and respectful portrayal.
Stymie’s most distinctive feature was his bald head, which was a result of a scalp infection he had as a baby. He also wore an oversized derby hat, which was a gift from comedian Stan Laurel, who had worked under Hal Roach. The hat became Stymie’s trademark, and he often used it as a prop or a tool in his adventures. Stymie also had a close bond with Pete the Pup, the gang’s dog, who was his loyal companion and protector.
Stymie left the Our Gang series in 1935, when he was replaced by Billie “Buckwheat” Thomas, another black child actor who would become a famous member of the gang. Stymie continued to act in other films, such as Captain Blood, The Return of Frank James, and Jezebel. He also appeared in Kid Millions, a musical comedy starring Eddie Cantor, along with other Our Gang kids.
Later Life and Death
Stymie’s life took a dark turn after he retired from acting in his teenage years. He became addicted to heroin, and spent most of his early adult life in and out of jail for drug and robbery charges. He also struggled with poverty, homelessness, and unemployment. He later said that he was influenced by the bad environment he grew up in, and that he felt lost and lonely after leaving the Our Gang series.
In the 1960s, Stymie decided to change his life and seek help. He checked himself into Synanon, a drug rehabilitation center in Los Angeles, where he successfully ended his heroin addiction. He also turned to religion, and became a minister like his father. He resumed his acting career, and appeared in several films and TV shows, such as The Buddy Holly Story, Sanford and Son, and Good Times. He also became a spokesperson for the NAACP, and advocated for the rights and welfare of black actors and children.
Stymie died on January 8, 1981, at the age of 56, from pneumonia. He had suffered a stroke a few days before his death. He was buried with his trademark derby hat next to him, in Evergreen Cemetery in Los Angeles. He was survived by his wife, Annie, whom he married in 1977.
Stymie’s life and death reflected his iconic role in The Little Rascals, as he faced many challenges and hardships, but also showed resilience and courage. He was a pioneer and a legend in American cinema, and he inspired many generations of fans and actors with his talent and charisma. He will always be remembered as Stymie, the leader of the gang and the master of the hat.
