Billy Ruge

Who was Billy Ruge?

Billy Ruge was an American film actor. He began his career on stage as an acrobat in Vaudeville before moving in to silent movies. Eventually appearing in 64 films between 1915 and 1922, mostly one-reeler Comedy Shorts. He was teamed up with Babe Hardy playing the part of 'Runt' to Hardy's 'Plump' in what can be seen as a precursor to the more famous Stan and Ollie partnership.

After 40 plus shorts Hardy moved on, eventually to Hollywood working with Billy West. For Ruge a new partnership with frequent co-star Kate Price was formed for a series of "Sparkle Comedies". Finally after a few solo projects he disappeared from the movie world.

Ruge frequently worked for Actor/Director Willard Louis, filming in Jacksonville, Florida for the minor studios Lubin Studios, the Vim Comedy Company, and the Jaxon Film Corporation.