In the 1925 silent comedy film “Seven Chances,” Buster Keaton’s character faces humiliation when his attempt to pursue a performer backfires. The humor in this scene arises from the fact that the performer, Julian Eltinge, was a famous female impersonator. Eltinge, who was the nation’s first cross-dressing celebrity, was not only a movie star but also an accomplished singer and stage actor. Unlike contemporary drag performers, Eltinge focused on portraying femininity rather than relying on risqué humor or flamboyant outfits. He achieved great success on stage and toured the world, even wearing a 23-inch corset and size 4 high-heeled shoes.
Eltinge’s story is both amusing and tragic. Throughout his career, he had to constantly emphasize his masculinity to prevent speculation about his personal life. The physical toll of his work may have contributed to his untimely death. As a child, Eltinge performed in girls’ clothing in Montana saloons until his mother sent him to Boston for his own safety. It was there that he embarked on his career as a female impersonator, eventually landing a role on Broadway in 1904. Female impersonation was common in vaudeville shows, but Eltinge added his own unique touch by singing in musical performances. He often portrayed characters who were forced to dress as women, foreshadowing iconic films like “Some Like It Hot” and “Mrs. Doubtfire.”
Eltinge’s ability to transform into a beautiful woman with a melodious contralto voice captivated audiences. Despite explicitly being told that he was a man, they believed they were watching a female performer. His name and reputation allowed him to fill theaters across the country, earning him a substantial income. His fans were primarily middle-aged women, who found inspiration in his ability to look elegant despite his size. Men also swooned over his onstage persona, fascinated by his enchanting charm. However, the gender-bending nature of his performances made some people uncomfortable, forcing Eltinge to carefully navigate both his stage and film careers. He had to strike a balance between being a cultural icon and a dispenser of fashion advice while countering perceptions that he was gay.
As Hollywood began cracking down on explicit content and homosexuality in the 1930s, Eltinge’s career started to decline. The implementation of the Hays Code prohibited any reference to sexual perversion, leading Eltinge to publicly declare his disinterest in returning to female impersonation. He felt that modern girls lacked charm and preferred to act as a man, though producers couldn’t envision him without a gown. In 1941, Eltinge tragically passed away from a cerebral hemorrhage, having also suffered from heart and kidney problems. Despite the challenges he faced, Eltinge left a lasting legacy as an LGBTQ pioneer. He challenged societal perceptions of gender and highlighted the ability to construct one’s own identity.
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