University of Central Florida (UCF) FIL2030 History of Motion Pictures Practice Exam 2

In the 1920s, Roscoe Arbuckle was embroiled in a major scandal that involved accusation of rape and manslaughter following the death of actress Virginia Rappe. Arbuckle was charged after Rappe was found dead shortly after attending a party at his hotel room. The incident attracted massive media attention and sensational coverage, leading to a public outcry and a tarnished image for Arbuckle, who was one of the most popular comedians of his time.

The legal proceedings were highly publicized, resulting in three trials. Ultimately, Arbuckle was acquitted of all charges, and the jury indicated that they believed he was innocent. However, the scandal had already severely damaged his career and reputation within the film industry, leading to his withdrawal from the public eye and a significant decrease in his film roles.

This incident highlights the intersection of fame, media influence, and social attitudes towards scandal during the silent film era, effectively illustrating how allegations can overshadow actual events and lead to dramatic repercussions for those involved.