Born in Nashville, Tennessee in 1886 (some sources say 1887 or 1888,
but U.S. Census records confirm 1886), he taught school. He became
active in the theatre and was eventually signed by
William Fox. Appearing
in films for Fox as well as
Samuel Goldwyn, Roscoe became best known as
leading man opposite
Theda Bara, with whom he starred in at least seven
films. Initially known as Albert Roscoe, in the latter part of his
career he appeared more frequently as Alan Roscoe.