David Rollins, a strikingly handsome juvenile lead from the silent era, was discovered as an extra and subsequently granted a contract with Fox Films in 1927. Throughout his career, he primarily worked in light comedies, frequently paired with the talented Sue Carol, who would later become the wife of the renowned actor Alan Ladd.
During his time under contract with Fox, Rollins had the privilege of collaborating with numerous esteemed directors who were just beginning their illustrious careers, including the acclaimed Howard Hawks, John Ford, and George Stevens.
Unfortunately, few of his films have survived to this day. However, one of his most notable and well-known films is undoubtedly "The Big Trail" (1930),a full-length talkie directed by the esteemed Raoul Walsh, which featured the early starring role of the iconic John Wayne. Despite being beautifully photographed, the sound quality was somewhat subpar, and the film was not widely seen due to the fact that it was shot in 70mm, a format that few theaters at the time were equipped to display.
Rollins eventually retired in the 1950s and devoted the remainder of his life to various pursuits, including traveling, raising dogs, volunteering at a local hospital, and tending to his citrus orchards in Encinitas, California.
Interestingly, Rollins was interviewed only once, by the esteemed author Michael Ankerich, for his book "Broken Silence," which explores the lives of forgotten Hollywood stars.
