Wheeler Vivian Oakman

Wheeler Vivian Oakman (February 21, 1890 – March 19, 1949) was an American film actor.

Early years

Oakman was born in Washington, D.C., and educated in that city's schools. He grew up in Fairfax, Virginia, after moving there from Washington.

Career

Before acting in films, Oakman was active in stock theater in the eastern United States.

Oakman appeared in over 280 films between 1912 and 1948. In silent films, he was often a leading man. Among his leading ladies were Priscilla Dean, Kathlyn Williams, Colleen Moore and Annette Kellerman. His most successful movie was Mickey, a 1918 comedy-drama, in which he played the love interest of Mabel Normand.

By the time talkies came in, his career was in decline, and he often portrayed villains or henchman, and rarely had a leading role.

In 1932, he appeared alongside Buck Jones in Sundown Rider and John Wayne in Texas Cyclone.

Later years

Before his death, Oakman was assistant manager of a North Hollywood theater.

Personal life and death

Oakman in 1920 married actress Priscilla Dean, his costar in Outside the Law (1920) and The Virgin of Stamboul (1920). After their divorce in 1926, he wed Mary Eloise Timothy, although the exact year of that marriage remains undetermined.

In 1949, at age 59, Oakman died in Van Nuys, California. He was interred at Pierce Brothers Valhalla Memorial Park in North Hollywood, California. There is no marker on his grave.

Selected filmography