Joe Cobb


This filmography was made in collaboration with Matthew Lydick.


full name: Joe Frank Cobb
born Nov. 7, 1916, in Shawnee, OK
died May 21, 2002, in Santa Ana, CA, of natural causes


Special note: Joe's full name as shown above is unusual, since most parents are more apt to name their boys "Joseph," with "Joe" being a nickname. However, this is the way it appears on the contracts signed between Joe and the Roach studio, and these typically used the contractee's full name.

Another special note: Maltin & Bann give Joe's birthdate as Nov. 7, 1917. However, as indicated in the references of his Wikipedia page, the Oklahoma birth index puts it a year earlier. Joe also mentions being 19 years old in the Jan. 24, 1936, letter mentioned below.


Though born in Shawnee, Joe was initially raised in Wewoka, OK. It was a local theatre manager who, upon noting Joe's plump physique, recommended that Joe's parents take him to Hollywood and get him into the movies.


1922


1923

9. The Champeen! (bit part)
Jan. 28, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-9 - Our Gang series
Filmed late August/September 1922. ©Dec. 16, 1922.
A Tough Winter (supporting role as Marie's kid brother)
Feb. 4, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. B-10 - Snub Pollard series
Filmed Sep. 13 to 23, 1922. ©Dec. 16, 1922.
7. The Big Show! (supporting role)
Feb. 25, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-7 - Our Gang series
Filmed July 28 to Aug. 15, 1922, with added scenes Sep. 11 to 16, and Sep. 20 to 28, 1922, and retakes Jan. 10 to 11, 1923. ©Feb. 26, 1923.
11. A Pleasant Journey (small part)
Mar. 18, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-11 - Our Gang series
Also listed for Mar. 25, 1923. Filmed Oct. 22 to 27, and Nov. 2 to 16, 1922. ©Feb. 26, 1923.
10. Boys To Board (featured role)
Apr. 8, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-10 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 2 to Nov. 2, 1922. ©Mar. 30, 1923.
12. Giants Vs. Yanks (featured role: Squeaky)
May 13, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-12 - Our Gang series
Filmed Nov. 20 to Dec. 19, 1922, and Feb. 15, 1923. ©Apr. 27, 1923.
13. Back Stage (supporting role: Joe)
June 3, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-13 - Our Gang series
Filmed Dec. 15, 1922, to Jan. 9, 1923. ©June 6, 1923.
14. Dogs Of War! (supporting role)
July 1, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-14 - Our Gang series
Premiered June 10, 1923. Filmed Jan. 12 to Feb. 10, 1923, with retakes Feb. 20 to 23, and Apr. 11, 1923. ©July 19, 1923.
15. Lodge Night (featured role: Joe)
July 29, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-15 - Our Gang series
Filmed Feb. 12 to Mar. 3, 1923. ©Aug. 2, 1923.
18. July Days (supporting role)
Aug. 26, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-18 - Our Gang series
Filmed Apr. 12 to May 2, and May 31, 1923. ©Aug. 2, 1923.
20. No Noise (supporting role: Joe)
Sep. 23, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-20 - Our Gang series
Filmed June 1 to 20, 1923. ©Sep. 24, 1923.
17. Stage Fright (featured role)
Oct. 21, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-17 - Our Gang series
Filmed Mar. 17 to Apr. 11, 1923, with retakes June 21 to July 2, 1923. ©Nov. 9, 1923.
21. Derby Day (featured role: Joe)
Nov. 18, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-21 - Our Gang series
Filmed Mar. 11, July 18 to Aug. 13, 1923. ©Nov. 9, 1923.
19. Sunday Calm (supporting role: Joe)
Dec. 16, 1923 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-19 - Our Gang series
Filmed May 4 to 29, 1923, with retakes July 2 to 14, and Oct. 2, 1923. ©Dec. 24, 1923.

1924

22. Tire Trouble (supporting role: Joe)
Jan. 13, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-22 - Our Gang series
Filmed Aug. 14 to Sep. 4, 1923. ©Dec. 24, 1923.
23. Big Business (featured role: Joe)
Feb. 10, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-23 - Our Gang series
Filmed Sep. 11 to 21, 1923. ©Jan. 26, 1924.
24. The Buccaneers (featured role: Joe)
Mar. 9, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-24 - Our Gang series
Filmed Sep. 28 to Oct. 24, and Oct. 28, 1923. ©Feb. 20, 1924.
The Fraidy Cat (small part: one of the neighborhood boys)
Mar. 30, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-45 - Hal Roach series with Charley Chase
Premiered Mar. 10, 1924. Filmed Dec. 4 to 9, 1923. ©Mar. 20, 1924.
25. Seein' Things (supporting role)
Apr. 6, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-25 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 25 to Nov. 7, and Dec. 19, 1923, and Jan. 7, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
Girl Shy (bit part: boy in tailor shop)
Apr. 20, 1924 - Lloyd/Pathé - 8 reels - Harold Lloyd feature
©Mar. 12, 1924. Joe appears with fellow gangster Jackie Condon.
26. Commencement Day (supporting role: Joe)
May 4, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-26 - Our Gang series
Filmed Nov. 9 to Dec. 6, 1923, Jan. 7 to 11, and Jan. 26, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
Going To Congress (undetermined role)
May 25, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. R-11 - Will Rogers series
Filmed Jan. 19 to 30, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
28. Cradle Robbers (lead role: Joe)
June 1, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-28 - Our Gang series
Filmed Jan. 28 to Feb. 9, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
Rupert Of Hee Haw (bit part: one of the great throng)
June 8, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. L-11 - Stan Laurel series
Also listed for June 24, 1924. Filmed Dec. 20 to 26, 1923, and Jan. 2 to 12, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
Fast Black (undetermined role)
June 15, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-57 - Fite series with Earl Mohan
Filmed Mar. 18 to 25, and Apr. 8, 1924. ©May 28, 1924. Also featuring Billy Engle.
Young Oldfield (small part: sneezing boy outside pharmacy)
June 22, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-56 - Hal Roach series with Charley Chase
According to Rob Stone's list, this was filmed Mar. 9 to 17, 1924. According to Anthony & Edmonds, it was filmed Mar. 10 to 17, 1924. ©May 12, 1924.
29. Jubilo, Jr. (supporting role)
June 29, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-29 - Our Gang series
Also listed for July 29, 1924. Filmed Feb. 25 to Mar. 8, 1924. ©June 5, 1924.
27. It's A Bear (featured role: Joe)
July 27, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-27 - Our Gang series
Filmed Dec. 10 to 26, 1923, Jan. 2 to 7, Jan. 12, and Mar. 7 to 12, 1924. ©June 30, 1924.
The Battling Orioles (small part: one of the neighborhood boys)
Aug. 24, 1924 - Roach/Associated/Pathé - 5 reels - prod. T-2 - Glenn Tryon feature
Also listed for Oct. 6, 1924. Filmed Feb. 18 to May 20, 1924, with retakes June 16 to 20, 1924. There was also an unspecified Glenn Tryon feature for which retakes were shot from May 22 to June 17, 1924, but it isn't clear whether it was this one or "The White Sheep" or some other film. ©Sep. 25, 1924.
30. High Society (supporting role: Joe)
Aug. 24, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-30 - Our Gang series
Filmed Mar. 24 to Apr. 5, 1924. ©May 29, 1924.
31. The Sun Down Limited (featured role: Joe)
Sep. 21, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-31 - Our Gang series
Filmed Apr. 21 to May 1, 1924. ©Aug. 2, 1924.
32. Every Man For Himself (supporting role: Joe Cobb)
Oct. 19, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-32 - Our Gang series
Filmed June 2 to 12, 1924. ©Oct. 2, 1924.
Accidental Accidents (small part)
Nov. 9, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-65 - Hal Roach series with Charley Chase
Filmed May 5 to 9, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.
16. Fast Company (supporting role: Joe)
Nov. 16, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-16 - Our Gang series
Filmed Mar. 5 to 15, 1923, with retakes June 13 to 21, 1924. ©Oct. 2, 1924.
33. The Mysterious Mystery! (featured role: Joe)
Dec. 14, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-33 - Our Gang series
Filmed June 30 to July 19, 1924, with retakes Sep. 9 and 12, 1924, and added scenes Sep. 13 and 15, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.
The Rubber-Neck (bit part)
Dec. 28, 1924 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. F-17 - The Spat Family series
Filmed June 23 to July 25, 1924, with retakes Sep. 2 to 4, 1924. ©Dec. 11, 1924.

1925

34. The Big Town (featured role: Joe)
Jan. 11, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-34 - Our Gang series
Filmed Sep. 22 to Oct. 2, 1924. ©Dec. 9, 1924.
35. Circus Fever (featured role: Joe aka Joey)
Feb. 8, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-35 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 20 to 25, and Nov. 1 to 4, 1924. ©Jan. 19, 1925.
36. Dog Days (featured role: Joe)
Mar. 8, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-36 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 29 to Nov. 5, and Nov. 17 to 24, 1924. ©Mar. 5, 1925.
37. The Love Bug (featured role: Joe)
Apr. 5, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-37 - Our Gang series
Filmed Dec. 15 to 31, 1924, and possibly early Jan. 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
39. Shootin' Injuns (featured role: Joe)
May 3, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-39 - Our Gang series
Filmed Jan. 19 to Feb. 5, 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
38. Ask Grandma (supporting role: Joe)
May 31, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-38 - Our Gang series
Probably filmed in early Jan. 1925. ©Apr. 2, 1925.
Riders Of The Kitchen Range (undetermined role)
June 7, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1 reel - prod. D-59 - "Hunky" Dory series
Also listed for June 13, 1925. Filmed Apr. 2 to 5, 1924. ©May 29, 1925. Featuring Earl Mohan and Billy Engle.
Twinkle, Twinkle (appearance)
June 14, 1925 - Pathé - 1 reel - Grantland Rice Sportlight
© May 8, 1925. Featuring the Our Gang kids.
40. Official Officers (featured role: Officer Joe)
June 28, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-40 - Our Gang series
Premiered June 10, 1925. Filmed Feb. 16 to 27, 1925. ©May 18, 1925.
42. Boys Will Be Joys (supporting role)
July 26, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-42 - Our Gang series
Filmed Apr. 13 to 24, 1925. ©July 6, 1925.
Tame Men And Wild Women (undetermined role)
Aug. 16, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. E-8 - Arthur Stone series
Filmed July 22 to 31, 1924, with retakes Sep. 2 to 4, Oct. 9 to 10, 1924, and Jan. 3 to 9, 1925. ©June 23, 1925.
41. Mary, Queen of Tots (supporting role)
Aug. 23, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-41 - Our Gang series
Filmed Mar. 16 to Apr. 1, 1925. ©June 11, 1925.
44. Your Own Back Yard (supporting role: Joe)
Sep. 27, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-2 - Our Gang series
Filmed June 30 to July 16, and July 20 to 29, 1925. ©Aug. 28, 1925.
43. Better Movies (featured role)
Nov. 1, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-1 - Our Gang series
Filmed May 27 to June 16, 1925. Originally production A-43. ©Aug. 20, 1925.
'Our Gang' At Home (producer)
Nov. 8, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 1/3 reel - Pathé Review series
Our Gang segment filmed Mar. 1 to 14, 1925. ©Oct. 8, 1925. This short film was included in the Pathé Review, a weekly release typically consisting of three segments. This particular release was no. 45 for the year 1925, and Our Gang are featured in the middle segment. The other two segments have no relation to the Roach studios. The first is an episode of "American Wild Flowers" called "The Thistle," and is in color. The final segment is called "Forest Food Supplies."
45. One Wild Ride (supporting role: Joe)
Dec. 6, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-3 - Our Gang series
Filmed July 30 to Aug. 4, 1925. ©Nov. 6, 1925.

1926

46. Good Cheer (featured role)
Jan. 10, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-4 - Our Gang series
Filmed Sep. 3 to 18, 1925. ©Jan. 23, 1926.
47. Buried Treasure (supporting role)
Feb. 14, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-5 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 1 to 19, 1925. ©Jan. 23, 1926.
48. Monkey Business (supporting role)
Mar. 21, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-6 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 30 to Nov. 18, 1925. ©Feb. 6, 1926.
49. Baby Clothes (featured role: Joe)
Apr. 25, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-7 - Our Gang series
Filmed Dec. 7 to 20, 1925, with retakes Jan. 11, 1926. ©Mar. 15, 1926.
50. Uncle Tom's Uncle (featured role: Joe)
May 30, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-8 - Our Gang series
Filmed Jan. 12 to Feb. 3, 1926. ©Apr. 28, 1926.
51. Thundering Fleas (supporting role)
July 4, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-9 - Our Gang series
Also listed for July 28, 1926. Filmed Mar. 8 to 25, 1926. ©May 26, 1926.
52. Shivering Spooks (featured role)
Aug. 8, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-10 - Our Gang series
Premiered July 4, 1926. Filmed Apr. 7 to 28, 1926. ©July 26, 1926.
53. The Fourth Alarm! (featured role: Joe)
Sep. 12, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-11 - Our Gang series
Filmed May 24 to June 14, 1926. ©Sep. 17, 1926.
54. War Feathers (featured role)
Nov. 21, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-12 - Our Gang series
Filmed Aug. 5 to Sep. 4, 1926. ©Dec. 13, 1926.
56. Telling Whoppers (featured role: Joe)
Dec. 19, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-14 - Our Gang series
Also listed for Dec. 29, 1926. Filmed Sep. 10 to 18, 1926. ©Nov. 11, 1926.
45 Minutes From Hollywood (appearance)
Dec. 26, 1926 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. H-3 - Glenn Tryon series
Also featuring Stan Laurel, Oliver Hardy, Theda Bara and Our Gang. Filmed Oct. 27 to Nov. 8, 1925, with added scenes Nov. 16, 1925, and retakes Mar. 27, and Apr. 5 and 6, 1926. ©Dec. 13, 1926. A clip from "Thundering Fleas" is briefly seen in this film.

1927

57. Bring Home The Turkey (supporting role)
Jan. 16, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-15 - Our Gang series
Filmed Sep. 29 to Oct. 15, 1926. ©Jan. 14, 1927.
55. Seeing The World (supporting role)
Feb. 13, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-13 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 29 to Nov. 15, 1926. European footage shot July and Aug. 1926. ©Jan. 14, 1927.
58. Ten Years Old (lead role: Joe)
Mar. 13, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-16 - Our Gang series
Filmed Nov. 24 to Dec. 14, 1926. ©Feb. 14, 1927.
59. Love My Dog (supporting role)
Apr. 10, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-17 - Our Gang series
Also listed for Apr. 17, 1927. Filmed Dec. 21, 1926, to Jan. 4, 1927. ©Apr. 11, 1927.
60. Tired Business Men (lead role: Joe)
May 22, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-18 - Our Gang series
Also listed for May 15, 1927, and May 21, 1927. Filmed Jan. 18 to Feb. 3, 1927. ©Apr. 11, 1927.
61. Baby Brother (lead role: Joe aka Joseph)
June 26, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-19 - Our Gang series
Filmed Feb. 17 to Mar. 14, 1927. ©May 18, 1927.
64. The Glorious Fourth (featured role: Joe)
July 31, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-22 - Our Gang series
Also listed for June 26, 1927, and July 30, 1927. Filmed May 10 to 21, 1927. ©July 22, 1927.
63. Olympic Games (supporting role: Joe)
Sep. 11, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-21 - Our Gang series
Also listed for Sep. 10, 1927. Filmed Apr. 22 to May 6, 1927. ©July 8, 1927.
67. Yale Vs. Harvard (featured role: Joe)
Sep. 24, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-1 - Our Gang series
Filmed June 13 to 24, 1927. ©Aug. 17, 1927.
68. The Old Wallop (featured role: Joe)
Oct. 22, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-2 - Our Gang series
Filmed Aug. 8 to 20, 1927. ©Oct. 22, 1927.
62. Chicken Feed (supporting role)
Nov. 6, 1927 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-20 - Our Gang series
Filmed Mar. 28 to Apr. 15, 1927. ©June 9, 1927.
69. Heebee Jeebees (featured role)
Nov. 19, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-3 - Our Gang series
Also listed for Nov. 29, 1927. Filmed Aug. 29 to Sep. 13, and Sep. 30, 1927. ©Nov. 1, 1927.
70. Dog Heaven (lead role: Joe)
Dec. 17, 1927 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-4 - Our Gang series
Filmed Sep. 15 to Oct. 13, 1927, with retakes Nov. 1, 1927. ©Nov. 26, 1929.

1928

65. Playin' Hookey (lead role: Joe)
Jan. 1, 1928 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-24 - Our Gang series
Filmed June 27 to 29, and Aug. 1 to 6, 1927. ©Feb. 6, 1928.
71. Spook-Spoofing (featured role: Joe)
Jan. 14, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 3 reels - prod. G-5 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 11 to 27, 1927. ©Jan. 14, 1928.
72. Rainy Days (featured role: Joe)
Feb. 11, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-6 - Our Gang series
Filmed Nov. 4 to Dec. 28, 1927. ©Feb. 11, 1928, and Sep. 4, 1929.
66. The Smile Wins (supporting role)
Feb. 26, 1928 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. K-23 - Our Gang series
Filmed May 24 to June 7, 1927. ©Sep. 2, 1927.
73. Edison, Marconi & Co. (supporting role)
Mar. 10, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-7 - Our Gang series
Also listed for Mar. 9, 1928. Filmed Dec. 16 to 22, and Dec. 28, 1927. ©Mar. 10, 1928.
74. Barnum & Ringling, Inc. (featured role)
Apr. 7, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-8 - Our Gang series
Filmed Dec. 21, 1927, to Jan. 9, 1928. ©Apr. 7, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
75. Fair And Muddy (featured role)
May 5, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-9 - Our Gang series
Filmed Jan. 16 to Feb. 8, 1928. ©May 5, 1928.
76. Crazy House (featured role: Joe)
June 2, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-10 - Our Gang series
Filmed Feb. 10 to 24, 1928. ©May 16, 1928.
77. Growing Pains (supporting role)
Sep. 22, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-11 - Our Gang series
Filmed Feb. 27 to Mar. 15, 1928. ©Sep. 22, 1928.
78. The Ol' Gray Hoss (featured role)
Oct. 20, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-12 - Our Gang series
Filmed May 7 to 26, 1928, with retakes Aug. 16, 1928. ©Oct. 20, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
79. School Begins (featured role: Joe aka Joseph)
Nov. 17, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-13 - Our Gang series
Premiered Sep. 16, 1928. Filmed June 7 to 28, 1928. ©Nov. 17, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
80. The Spanking Age (supporting role)
Dec. 15, 1928 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-14 - Our Gang series
Filmed July 2 to 14, 1928. ©Dec. 15, 1928. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.

1929

81. Election Day (supporting role: Joe Cobb)
Jan. 12, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-15 - Our Gang series
Filmed July 19 to Aug. 4, 1928, with retakes Aug. 22 to 24, 1928. ©Dec. 10, 1928.
82. Noisy Noises (lead role: Joe)
Feb. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-16 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 29 to Nov. 10, 1928. ©Mar. 5, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
83. The Holy Terror (featured role: Joe Cobb)
Mar. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-17 - Our Gang series
Filmed Nov. 19 to 28, 1928. ©July 11, 1929.
84. Wiggle Your Ears (supporting role: Joe aka Joseph)
Apr. 6, 1929 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-18 - Our Gang series
Filmed Dec. 4 to 12, 1928. ©Mar. 5, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
85. Fast Freight (featured role)
May 4, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-19 - Our Gang series
Filmed Dec. 10 to 27, and Dec. 29, 1928. ©Apr. 1, 1929.
89. Small Talk (supporting role: Joe aka Joseph)
May 18, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 3 reels - prod. G-23 - Our Gang series
Also listed for Apr. 18, 1929. Filmed Mar. 25 to Apr. 6, 1929. ©July 30, 1929.
86. Little Mother (supporting role: Joe)
June 1, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-20 - Our Gang series
Filmed Feb. 4 to 13, 1929. ©June 3, 1929.
90. Railroadin' (featured role: Joe aka Jody)
June 15, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-24 - Our Gang series
Filmed Apr. 17 to 25, 1929. ©Dec. 9, 1929.
92. Lazy Days (supporting role: Joe)
Aug. 24, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-26 - Our Gang series
Also listed for Aug. 15, 1929, and Oct. 24, 1929. Filmed June 10 to 20, 1929. ©Aug. 26, 1929.
91. Boxing Gloves (featured role: Joe Cobb)
Sep. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-25 - Our Gang series
Filmed May 13 to 25, 1929. ©Sep. 9, 1929.
87. Cat, Dog & Co. (featured role: Joe)
Sep. 14, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-21 - Our Gang series
Filmed Feb. 20 to Mar. 2, 1929. ©Sep. 3, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.
88. Saturday's Lesson (featured role: Joe aka Joseph)
Nov. 9, 1929 - Roach/MGM - silent - 2 reels - prod. G-22 - Our Gang series
Filmed Mar. 5 to 11, 1929. ©Sep. 9, 1929. Released with a synchronized soundtrack.

1930

The Voice Of Hollywood Series 1, No. 15 (appearance as host)
Jul. 12, 1930 - Lewyn/Tiffany - 1 reel
©July 22, 1930. Motion Picture News created a bit of confusion over this item for modern researchers. Their Aug. 9th release chart credited Joe with appearing in no. 14 of this series, while crediting Ruth Roland with no. 15. Elsewhere in the same issue is a review crediting Joe with no. 15, and backtracking to the July 12th issue reveals a review crediting Roland with no. 13. Issues subsequent to Aug. 9th clear up the mess by consistently crediting Joe with hosting no. 15.

1932


1933

120. Fish Hooky (small part: Joe)
Jan. 28, 1933 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. G-13 - Our Gang series
Filmed Oct. 17 to 22, 1932. ©Jan. 16, 1933.

1934


1936

Fox Movietone News (appearance)
1936 - Fox - 1 reel - newsreel
Our Gang's 15th anniversary is featured in a Hollywood Spotlight segment with Jimmie Fidler.
148. Pay As You Exit (small part)
©Nov. 17, 1936 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-3 - Our Gang series
Also listed for Oct. 24, 1936. Filmed Oct. 14 to 19, 1936.

1937

151. Reunion In Rhythm (small part)
Jan. 9, 1937 - Roach/MGM - 1 reel - prod. K-5 - Our Gang series
Filmed Dec. 9 to 14, 1936. ©Jan. 14, 1937.

1938

A Yank At Oxford (small part: short drummer)
Feb. 18, 1938 - MGM - 9 reels - Robert Taylor feature
©Feb. 8, 1938. There is some question as to Joe's involvement in this film, since it was a production of the UK branch of MGM. It should be noted, though, that the scene in question takes place in the US with a bunch of American characters. One of these is the newsboy, who's played by peripheral Our Gang kid Roger McGee. So either they shot the scene in the US, or transported at least one bit player to the UK.

1941

Where Did You Get That Girl? (supporting role: Tubby)
Jan. 3, 1941 - Universal - 7 reels - feature
© Dec. 26, 1940. Featuring Leon Errol, Helen Parrish, Charles Lang and Eddie Quillan.
Tuxedo Junction (bit part: migrant boy)
Nov. 25, 1941 - Republic - 7 reels - Weaver Brothers feature
© Dec. 4, 1941. UK title: The Gang Made Good.

1942


1953

You Asked For It episode (appearance)
Jul. 27, 1953 - ABC - 30 min. - TV episode
Hosted by Art Baker. Featuring a reunion of the silent-era Our Gang kids, along with Bob McGowan, Fern Carter and Art Lloyd.

1955


1978

Rascal Dazzle (archival)
1978 - King World/Picture Scores - 93 min. - documentary feature
©1978. Seems to have debuted on TV, followed by a theatrical release in late 1979. Includes footage from "Reunion In Rhythm."

1980


1981


1984

Our Gang: Inside The Clubhouse (archival)
May 8, 1984 - Lang/Camellia City Telecasters - 93 mins. - TV documentary
Includes footage from "The Big Show," "Thundering Fleas," "Boxing Gloves" and "You Asked For It." Also includes footage from Art Lloyd home movie showing Joe during the 1930s.

1988

Muppet Babies episode: Is There A Muppet In The House? (archival)
Oct. 1, 1988 - Henson/CBS - 30 min. - TV episode
Includes footage from "Shivering Spooks."

1994

The Our Gang Story (archival)
1994 - Film Shows/GoodTimes - 120 min. - video documentary
Includes footage from "The Champeen!" "Giants Vs. Yanks," "Dogs Of War!" "The Sun Down Limited," "Monkey Business," "Shivering Spooks" and "Reunion In Rhythm."

1998

Hal Roach: The Lot Of Fun (archival)
June 27, 1998 - Film Preservation Associates/Kino Lorber - 133 min. - video documentary
Released on "Slapstick Encyclopedia Vol. 6."

2002

E! True Hollywood Story episode: Curse Of The Little Rascals (archival)
Nov. 24, 2002 - E! Entertainment Television - 60 min. - TV documentary

2014

Hollywoods Spaßfabrik - Als die Bilder Lachen lernten (archival)
May 29, 2014 - Exit Film-und Fernsehproduktion-ZDF/ARTE - 90 min. - TV documentary
Also released in English as Hal Roach - The Lot Of Fun: Where The Movies Learned To Laugh. Includes footage from "Barnum & Ringling, Inc.," "Fast Freight" and "Cat, Dog & Co.."

Joe Cobb's payroll history

The following is a list of Joe's history at the Roach studio, with the amounts he was making from week to week. The dates given are Saturdays, the last day of each week at the studio. The only exceptions would be Saturdays that were also holidays, in which case the Friday date is used for those weeks.

Special note: Production A9 (The Champeen!), Production A38 (Ask Grandma), and Production K3 (One Wild Ride) are missing from this list. It appears that in each case, they started off as the previous production, which then got divided into two films.

Oddly, Joe wasn't given a paycheck for the week ending Mar. 10th, even though "Fast Company" was in production.

There were no ledger sheets for the week ending Jan. 2nd, due to the studio being closed, but Joe was still paid his $200.

For four weeks during July, the studio was closed for summer vacation, resulting in a lower rate for Joe, though he did get the extra $250 the week before the hiatus.

The payroll ledger for 1927 has gone missing, which makes some of the details for these dates unavailable. There are, however, datebooks and payroll summaries that have survived, and these verify most of the information about Joe's salary that would be found in the ledger. The main exception is that, during the interim between films, it isn't clear which production the player's salary is being charged to.

As distribution was shifting from Pathé to MGM, the Kid Co. transitioned into the Gang Co. During the weeks ending July 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th, the studio was closed. The datebooks indicate that Joe wasn't paid during this stretch, but the payroll summaries indicate that he was.

With the start of 1928, we can return to the payroll ledgers for a more accurate picture of Joe's history.

The studio was closed during the spring, resulting in Joe not being paid for the week ending Mar. 31st, and then receiving a lower salary for the rest of the break.

For the weeks ending June 1st and 8th, Joe wasn't given a check, suggesting that he had actually left the series at this time. However, he was soon brought back for one final Our Gang short.

After nearly seven years, Joe was now no longer an active member of Our Gang. It would be over three years before he worked at the studio again.

It would be roughly three and a half years before Joe worked with the Our Gang unit again.

After another five months, Joe was working with the Gang again. In the interim, the Gang Co. reverted to the Kid Co.

After another interim of a month and a half, Joe worked at the Roach studio for the final time.


See anything that needs changing? Contact me at BtheW@aol.com.


© Robert Demoss and Matthew Lydick.


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