Ronald Hutchison, later known as Harry Tate, was born in Scotland in 1872.
As a young man, Tate worked for Harry Tate & Sons, Sugar Refiners before pursuing a career in the theatre, and he took his stage name from his former employers.
Tate made his stage debut at the Oxford Music Hall in 1895, quickly becoming a highly renowned impressionist of popular music hall stars such as Dan Leno, Eugene Stratton, George Robey, and R.G. Knowles.
He was also highly successful with his comedy sketches, many of which have become iconic, including "Motoring," which was later adapted into a film by the Inter-Cine Film Co in 1927.
Tate's other notable comedy sketches include "Running an Office" and "Billiards and Fishing."
He began his film career in 1899, starring in films that impersonated music hall stars for the Warwick Trading Film Co.
Tate appeared primarily in character and supporting roles in talkies from 1932 until his last screen appearance in Sam Small Leaves Town (1937),starring Stanley Holloway.
He was known for his remarkable ability to express a wide range of emotions through his bristling moustache, which he would often twitch to convey different emotions.
Tragically, Tate passed away shortly after suffering a stroke in 1940 at the age of 67.
Tate's legacy extends beyond his own career, as his son, Harry Tate Jr., also became a successful actor.
