Maynard (July 21, 1895 – March 23, 1973) was a notable American actor and producer, primarily active from the 1920s to the 1940s, and recognized as one of Hollywood’s leading Western stars. Born in Vevay, Indiana, he began his career in carnivals and circuses, where he honed his skills as a horseman. After serving in World War I, Maynard transitioned to film, encouraged by actor Buck Jones, and signed with Fox Studios. He made his silent film debut in 1923, quickly becoming famous for his daring horsemanship and performances alongside his white stallion, “Tarzan.”
In 1929, Maynard became the first “singing cowboy” in films, recording songs for Universal Pictures. Despite his early success, his tumultuous personal life, marked by alcoholism and erratic behavior, led to difficulties on set and strained relationships with studios. After a brief return to Universal in the early 1930s, his career declined due to his reputation for unprofessionalism.
Maynard continued to work in smaller productions until 1940, later appearing in low-budget films like the “Trail Blazers” series. Eventually, he turned away from acting and performed at fairs and rodeos, running a small circus operation that he later lost. His later years were marked by struggles with addiction and financial hardship, although he received support from a benefactor, believed to be Gene Autry. He made a brief return to acting in the 1970s, before passing away in 1973.
