Son of an Episcopalian minister. Attended universities in Heidelberg (Germany) and Chidcago. First acted on the New York stage in 1904, later graduating to theater management and direction. Joined
D.W. Griffith's Triangle Films as director/scenarist in 1915. Successful collaboration on screenplays with his wife
Anita Loos (married 1919). President of Actor's Equity, 1920-28.