Robert Schable

Robert Schable (August 31, 1873 – July 3, 1947) was an American actor and stage manager who worked in both theater and silent film. Born in Hamilton, Ohio, he was the son of German immigrants Charles Schable and Mary Hesterberg. His Broadway career spanned from 1899 to 1917, and he later transitioned to screen work before retiring from acting in 1929.

Schable began his theatrical career as a stage performer with the Charles Frohman company during the 1890s. In the decade that followed, he served as a stage manager working alongside actor John Drew Jr. His Broadway appearances during this period were numerous, beginning in 1899 with productions of Beau Brummell, Cyrano de Bergerac, and The Man of Destiny. He continued with Richard Carvel in 1900 and The Second in Command in 1901, followed by two runs of The Mummy and the Humming Bird in 1902 and 1903. Captain Dieppe also appeared on his record in 1903. Subsequent credits included The Duke of Killicrankie in 1904, De Lancey in 1905, Jack Straw in 1908, Inconstant George in 1909, The Fallen Idol in 1915, and On With the Dance in 1917.

Schable entered silent films in 1919, where he frequently took on comedic and character roles, as well as parts requiring a European sensibility. He became particularly recognized for his screen portrayals of upper-class villains. His film career continued until his retirement from acting in 1929, after which he became the business manager for director George Fitzmaurice.

In his personal life, Schable was married to Wilda Bennett on March 20, 1912. The marriage ended in divorce on August 12, 1920. He had no immediate relatives at the time of his death.

Schable died on July 3, 1947, at the Virginia Rest Home at 2120 North Vermont Avenue in Hollywood, where he had been residing. A nurse discovered him in the bathroom of his apartment, having died from a self-inflicted razor wound to the throat. He had left a note directing that his attorney be contacted and providing instructions for his funeral arrangements. A funeral was held on July 7, after which his remains were cremated. His estate, valued at $5,000, was distributed among personal friends and various theatrical benefit organizations.