In 1926 the tragic and untimely death of a silent screen actor caused female moviegoers to riot in the streets and in some cases to commit suicide.

In 1926, the tragic, untimely death of a silent-screen actor caused female movie-goers to riot in the streets and in some cases to commit suicide. That actor was Rudolph Valentino. Ballroom dancer Valentino manipulated his good looks and bestial grace into a Hollywood career. His smoldering lovemaking, tinged with masterful cruelty, expressed a shocking sexuality.—Ørnås and Brian McInnis