Francis J. Grandon

Francis "Frank" J. Grandon (1879 – July 11, 1929) was an American silent film actor and director who acted in almost 100 films and directed over 100. Frank Grandon's obituary, printed in newspapers from coast-to- coast, called him "the father of movie serial motion pictures" and a mentor to many young film stars.

He was born in Chicago, Illinois. Little here is known about the early life of Francis Grandon other than he was listed as a members of Jessie May Hall’s company during an 1895 engagement at the Opera House in Portsmouth, Ohio and that he first arrived in Los Angeles in 1902, most likely as a member of a traveling repertory troupe.

Transcribed from The Moving Picture World, January 22, 1916

Director F. J. Grandon Goes to Metro

Francis J. Grandon, one of the foremost directors in the country and a veteran in this branch of motion picture production, is the latest addition to the large staff of Metro producers. Mr. Grandon has just completed, in record time, his first Metro wonderplay, "The Lure of Heart's Desire," in which Edmund Breese, the eminent dramatic actor, is starred. It was produced for Metro by the Popular Plays and Players. Mr. Grandon's next feature will be "The Soul Market," by Aaron Hoffman, in which Mme. Petrova will be seen in the stellar role.

Before joining Metro Mr. Grandon was a director with the Triangle Company. He began his career with D. W. Griffith, at the old Biograph company, and was associated with Mr. Griffith for several years. Mr. Grandon then received an attractive offer from Lubin, and went with that company as their first director. Later Mr. Grandon joined the Selig's forces, and while with that concern directed and produced the first serial released in connection with syndicated newspaper stories. This was "The Adventures of Kathlyn," with Kathlyn Williams, the star.

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