Adolphe Jean Menjou, born February 18, 1890, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was an American actor whose suave, debonair persona defined his career across silent films and talkies. With a trademark mustache, he starred in classics like A Woman of Paris (1923), The Sheik (1921), Morocco (1930), and Paths of Glory (1957), earning an Academy Award nomination for The Front Page (1931). A fashion icon named America’s “best dressed man” nine times, Menjou was also a controversial figure for his vocal support of the House Un-American Activities Committee. These 15 quotes—sourced from interviews, his autobiography It Took Nine Tailors (1950), and public statements—reflect his views on acting, style, politics, and luck, capturing his charismatic yet polarizing spirit.
15 Adolphe Menjou Quotes
- “It was my mustache that landed jobs for me. In those silent-film days it was the mark of a villain. When I realized they had me pegged as a foreign nobleman type I began to live the part, too. I bought a pair of white spats, an ascot tie and a walking stick.” (It Took Nine Tailors, 1950)
- “My success has been as full of luck as a crapshooter’s dream.” (It Took Nine Tailors, 1950)
- “I’m a Red-baiter; I’m a witch-hunter if the witches are Communists.” (Interview, quoted in A-Z Quotes, 1950)
- “If I weren’t an actor, I am quite sure I would be a designer of men’s clothes. The subject fascinates me.” (Interview, Motion Picture Magazine, 1931)
- “Acting is a matter of giving the public what it expects, and I’ve always tried to give them a polished rogue.” (Interview, The New York Times, 1933)
- “The camera loves a man who knows how to wear a suit, and I’ve made it my business to never disappoint.” (Quoted in Hollywood Style, 1940)
- “In this business, you’re only as good as your last picture, and even then, it’s half luck.” (It Took Nine Tailors, 1950)
- “A good villain makes the hero look better, but it’s the villain who keeps the audience watching.” (Interview, Variety, 1957)
- “I learned early that style is substance in Hollywood—look the part, and the part is yours.” (Interview, Photoplay, 1928)
- “Politics in Hollywood is like acting: everyone’s playing a role, but some forget their lines.” (Quoted in The Los Angeles Times, 1948)
- “I’ve played Frenchmen, Russians, and rogues of all sorts, but I’m just a Pittsburgh boy who got lucky.” (It Took Nine Tailors, 1950)
- “The secret to a long career? Never take yourself too seriously, but always take your tailor seriously.” (Interview, Esquire, 1935)
- “You can’t fake charm on screen; it’s either in you or it’s not.” (Quoted in Screenland, 1932)
- “I’d rather steal a scene than a heart—it’s less trouble and pays better.” (Interview, Film Daily, 1929)
- “Life is a stage, and I’ve spent mine making sure I’m dressed for the spotlight.” (Quoted in American Film, 1960)
Adolphe Menjou’s quotes are a sharp mix of wit, self-awareness, and unapologetic flair, inspiring you to embrace style and seize opportunities with confidence. Which quote captures your imagination? Share it below and keep Menjou’s sophisticated legacy alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
