Jay R. Smith

This filmography was made in collaboration with Matthew Lydick.

full name: J.R. Smith
professional name: Jay R. Smith
adult nickname: Pinky
born Aug. 29, 1915, in Los Angeles, CA
died between Oct. 1 and 5, 2002, in Las Vegas, NV, of murder by stabbing and bludgeoning

Special note: According to people that knew him, Jay's actual name at birth was J.R. Smith, with neither initial standing for anything. He often signed his name this way.

Also of note: The range of dates for Jay's death derives from the last time he was seen alive (Oct. 1st) and the date on which his body was discovered (Oct. 5th).

1925

Apr. 18, 1925: Jay did his first day of work in the Our Gang series. He continued off and on as a day worker for the next four months.
Aug. 22, 1925: For the week ending on this date, Jay was officially under long-term contract for 40 dollars a week.
Oct. 24, 1925: Motion Picture News announced the addition of Jay Smith to the Our Gang series and stated that he was "distinguished for his freckles and diffident manner." Jay was brought on board to eventually replace Mickey Daniels, who would soon be aged out.

42. Boys Will Be Joys (bit part): July 26, 1925 - Roach/Pathé - 2 reels - prod. A-42 - Our Gang series; Filmed Apr. 13 to 24, 1925. ©July 6, 1925.
43. Better Movies (featured role: Turkey-egg): 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.

1926

Apr. 5, 1926: Jay's salary was increased to $50.
May 16, 1926: The following article was released into syndication (and credited to more than one writer): "Little Mickey Daniels 'growed up.' Mickey is the brick-topped, freckle-faced lad who has been one of the bright lights of 'Our Gang' comedies for several years. With Farina, Joe Cobb, Mary Kornman and a few other youngsters, he made two-reelers for Hal Roach which are shown the world over. But Mickey is acquiring height. He began towering over other members of the gang and when Director Bob McGowan began filming 'Shivering Spooks' recently Mickey was not in the cast. 'Too big!' McGowan said. Just about that time the director espied a skinny little urchin outside the studio gates whose face was one jumble of freckles. They piled and tumbled over each other trying to find some spot between the forehead and chin which was unoccupied. The kid had more freckles than Mickey Daniels ever had. It took about 30 minutes for McGowan to get Jay Smith into the studio and make some screen tests. Now Jay is the new member of the gang. Little Mickey doesn't know yet just what he will do." Of course, Jay had been in the series for nearly a year by this time, so the details of this article should be taken with a grain of salt.

46. Good Cheer (supporting role: J.R.): 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: Specks): 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.
50. Uncle Tom's Uncle (supporting role): 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 (supporting 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! (supporting role: Turkie-egg): 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 (supporting 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 (supporting role: Jay R.): 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

Jan./Feb. 1927: During the making of "Tired Business Men," Jay was fired from the series for pestering some chickens by rolling a ball at them. During this period, he rode back and forth to work on his bicycle, since he lived nearby. Upon his dismissal, he got on his bike and headed for home, only to be tracked down by a studio rep and reinstated. This is according to Jay himself in the "Inside The Clubhouse" documentary. Another source written shortly after his unfortunate death places it during "Chicken Feed."
June 18, 1927: From the Los Angeles Record: "Hal Roach today did something which he has been fighting for a long time. He let the noted group of kid players better known as 'Our Gang' sign a vaudeville contract for several weeks. Ever since the youngsters made good in the movies, offers have been coming in for their appearance upon the stage, and Roach would never permit it except at benefit performances. Now the old tradition is broken and the kids open at the San Francisco Orpheum on July 2, under the management of Harry Weber. A special act written by George Waggner is in the stages of rehearsing now with a complete cast of the 'baby stars,' including Farina, Aroma, Joe Cobb, J. R. Smith, Jean Darling, Jackie Condon and Harry Spears(sic). Roach said early this morning that he permitted the vaudeville engagement because his studio will start its annual vacation on July 2 and this would be a good time for them to do a turn or so before the footlights. It is said that a record price has been paid for the ususual act."
June 28, 1927: From The San Francisco Call and Post: "Beginning at the Saturday matinee, the entire group of 'Our Gang' kiddies, otherwise known as Hal Roach's Rascals, make their debut on the speaking stage in a comedy playlet, Acting Out. Harry Weber, the well known producer, is the person responsible for this event, and he is bringing these kiddies, including Joe Cobb, Farina, Jean Darling, Jackie Condon, Ray(sic) R. Smith, Mango and Harry Spear, to San Francisco to make their first appearance on the speaking stage."
July 1, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner: "A reception is to be tendered 'Our Gang' Kiddies when they arrive in town this morning on the Lark from Los Angeles to fulfill an engagement of one week only at the Orpheum beginning tomorrow afternoon. Each section of San Francisco will be represented by six or seven of 'kiddie groups' from South of Market gang, North Beach, Chinatown, the Potrero, Ocean View, Sunset, Richmond and Fillmore. They will greet Joe Cobb, Farina, Jean Darling, Jackie Condon, Jay Smith, Mango and Harry Spear when they step off the train from Los Angeles. City officials and theatrical representatives will be on hand to greet them. 'Our Gang' Kiddies have arranged to hold a reception on the stage of the Orpheum after each matinee for all the youngsters attending the performances." The San Francisco Chronicle added the Mission, North of the Slot and Western Addition districts to the list. On July 10th, the Examiner published an article about this reception, a thinly-veiled advertisement focusing on the fleet of Studebaker and Erskine cars used to transport the kids from the train station to City Hall.
July 1, 1927: From The San Francisco Call and Bulletin: "'Our Gang' Kiddies, who are Hal Roach's Rascals of screen comedy fame, who arrived in San Francisco this morning to fulfill an engagement of one week only at the Orpheum, beginning with the matinee tomorrow, will hold a reception on the stage after each matinee for the children attending the performance."
July 2, 1927: The San Francisco Chronicle published an article about the Gang's visit to the city, which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 2, 1927: The San Francisco Examiner published an article about the Gang's visit to the city, which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 3, 1927: From the San Francisco Chronicle: "The biggest treat and the biggest party ever given for the orphans of San Francisco will be The Chronicle-Orpheum Theater party next Wednesday morning (the 6th) at 10:30. The treat will be the appearance of 'Our Gang,' that lively bunch of youngsters from the Hal Roach studios at Culver City. Every boy and girl knows this 'gang' they have seen in motion pictures this many moons, and when the orphans assemble at the Orpheum as The Chronicle's guests, it will be a regular get-together party of old friends. The entire personnel of 'Our Gang' will be on hand, and they will not only help entertain the orphans, but will mingle with the crowd and shake hands with everybody . . . The Market Street Railway has joined in the spirit of the occasion by planning to provide free street car tickets for conveying the guests to the Orpheum and to assign an inspector to supervise their travels with the most careful attention. Written invitations have been sent to each institution and judging from the acceptances, the Orpheum will fairly bulge with youngsters. In addition to the orphans, the junior salesmen of The Chronicle will also be guests, and can each bring a friend. The only grown-ups will be the attendants in charge of the orphans and the people in charge of the big party for the youngsters, with the big feature of the entertainment another bunch of youngsters. The official song for the occasion will be 'Hail, Hail, the Gang's All Here'."
July 4, 1927: The Bulletin of San Francisco published an article about the Gang's visit to the city, an excerpt of which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 4, 1927: The San Francisco Call and Post, regarding the Gang's act, described how Jay's "voice scrapes the ceiling when he introduces his pals."
July 4, 1927: From the San Francisco Chronicle: "To start the show, Cliff Work, manager of the Orpheum, has arranged to show one of the newest of the 'Our Gang' pictures produced at the Culver City film studios. As soon as the picture is finished, the curtain will go up and there, big as life, will be Joe Cobb, the fat boy of the gang; Farina, the pickaninny with the roly-poly eyes; Farina's sister, Mango; Jean Darling, Jackie Condon, Jay Smith and Robert McGowan, their director. Following introductions, the whole gang will go out in the audience for a chat with the children guests."
July 4, 1927: From the San Francisco Chronicle: "Harry Weber, manager and director of the Rascals, calls attention to the fact that they can weep real tears in a tense dramatic moment. The moment arrives in a scene from 'Uncle Tom's Cabin,' when Jean as Little Eva lies on her death bed, and the rest gather round and implore her not to leave them. And it's perfectly true. They can all cry."
July 4, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner: "These youngsters put on a sort of revue, with musical comedy in it, a tabloid drama and a burlesque on 'Uncle Tom's Cabin'."
July 5, 1927: The San Francisco Examiner published an article abuot the Gang's visit to the city, which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 5, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner: "Before leaving their Hal Roach Studios in Culver City for this four weeks theatrical trip, 'Our Gang' went into executive session, and elected Joe Cobb their treasurer, he having been reputed to boast of a bit of Scotch blood and being well known as a saving young person; Farina was nominated the reception committee, as everyone wants to shake hands with him, anyway; Jay Smith was made business manager, Jackie Condon stage manager, while Jean Darling and Mango, being the only representatives of the fair sex, were named the 'ofishul helpers'."
July 7, 1927: From the San Francisco Chronicle: "'Ain't we got fun? Yes!' Children's voices in lusty chorus rang to the rafters in the Orpheum Theater yesterday morning as the youngsters at The Chronicle-Orpheum theater party expressed their joy and approval with three cheers and a tiger. On one side of the footlights were seven famous 'movie' kids and on the other 700 San Francisco orphan youngsters brought in from the various homes, nurseries and orphanages for the party at which they were guests and the stage children hosts. While 'Our Gang' romped through its stage antics with the spontaneous abandon of kids at a party, their little guests registered delight with laughter and shrieks and whistles and applause. And to cap the climax of the joy when the show was over, the audience was invited to the stage to shake hands with the very children they had watched so many times upon the silver screen. 'Aw, gee, I shook hands with Farina,' gleefully recounted one orphan lad to a pal who had been too timid to venture to the unaccustomed side of the footlights. 'He rolled his funny eyes at me and he gave me a little kick on the shin with one of his big shoes.' 'Aw, that's nothing!' interrupted another. 'Leonore sat on Joe Cobb's knee. You know, Joe the fat boy. And all the gang yelled, "Joe's got a girl".' Farina's little sister Aroma, a small replica of himself, little Jean Darling, golden-haired fairy child, Jackie Condon, a repetition of the Coogan legend; Jay Smith and Harry Spear all did their bit in the gang's jolly program of stunts. Jean starred as Little Eva and Farina as Uncle Tom in a modern travesty in three scenes on Uncle Tom's Cabin'."
July 7, 1927: From The Oakland Post-Enquirer regarding Our Gang's upcoming visit: "They all will be in Oakland Saturday morning at 11 o'clock. The Post-Enquirer is arranging a great, rousing reception and every girl and boy in the metropolitan area is invited to be on the job. The reception will begin officially at 9:30 when the child artists arrive at Seventh and Broadway and are greeted by Mayor John L. Davie and other city dignitaries. Under an honorary police escort, the 'Gang' will then ride to the 'Post-Enquirer' building."
July 9, 1927: The Gang began a week's engagement at the Orpheum Theatre in Oakland, CA. As they did across the bay in San Francisco, the Gang held a reception on the stage for all of the kids attending the matinee.
July 9, 1927: The Oakland Post-Enquirer (CA) devoted an entire page to articles about the Gang's visit to their city, which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 10, 1927: The Oakland Tribune reported that the Our Gang kids would soon make a personal appearance in that city to perform for some orphans.
July 12, 1927: From the Oakland Tribune: "Rooms of the Press Club of Oakland will be turned into a filmdom rendezvous tomorrow at luncheon when the organization is to be host to Hal Roach's 'Our Gang' . . . Joe Cobb will head the aggregation. Joe, everyone knows, is that rotund youngster who cuts up so many capers that even the rest of the 'gang' cannot keep straight faces. Then there is Farina, the ebony boy of rags and tags. With them will be Farina's sister, Mango, Jay Smith, Jean Darling and Jackie Condon. James Cobb, dad of Joe, will be a guest as will Charles Olzey(sic), assistant film director, and Jack Wall, representing Harry Weber, producer of the act for Hal Roach. Luncheon will begin at 12:15, according to President Luther W. Rood, and members have been urged to be present at that hour in order that the little funmakers may get back to their Orpheum matinee act."
July 12, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner: "'Our Gang,' Hal Roach's beloved rascals, and the best known group of kiddies on the stage, will appear at the Golden Gate in person next week. Farina, Joe Cobb, Harry Spear, Jackie Condon, Jean Darling, Jay R. Smith and Mango, the whole gang, whose funny antics in the 'Our Gang' comedies have made you laugh, will be on hand. For five weeks the kiddies have a vacation from the movie lot and Hal Roach and their director, Robert McGowan, decided it would be a great idea to let the gang take a whirl at vaudeville. For the past two weeks their engagements have broken records and the Golden Gate is the third week of the five that they are permitted to play. The third part of the gang's act and the part that proves so popular to children is a reception on the stage following every matinee except Sunday when the children in the audience are permitted to come upon the stage and meet the gang."
July 13, 1927: The Oakland Tribune published an article about Our Gang, which can be accessed by clicking here.
July 15, 1927: From The San Francisco Examiner regarding Our Gang: "They come to town again tomorrow, appearing on the new Golden Gate bill . . . They will put on a sort of revue, a tabloid burlesque of 'Uncle Tom's Cabin,' and hold a stage reception for young persons of their own age after each matinee, with the exception of Sunday."
July 18, 1927: From The San Francisco Call and Post: "Jay R. wants to be a fireman when he grows up, so he is usually found around the firehouses..."
July 22, 1927: From the Los Angeles Illustrated Daily News: "'Our Gang,' with Farina, Joe Cobb and other funmakers in Hal Roach comedies, will top the new bill which comes to the Orpheum Sunday (the 24th). 'Our Gang' will appear in person for the first time in Los Angeles in a specially written offering entitled 'Acting Out.'...'Our Gang' will not only offer their act, but will hold a reception after each matinee for the children in the audience."
July 22, 1927: From the Los Angeles Times: "The 'Our Gang Kiddies' went to the Orpheum in San Francisco and Oakland and broke every record for attendance in both theaters, a report says."
July 23, 1927: The Our Gang kids performed at a Saturday matinee at the California theater in Salinas.
July 24, 1927: The Gang began a one-week engagement at the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles. As The Los Angeles Record of the 21st reported: "Every youngster in Los Angeles has seen the 'Our Gang Comedy Kiddies' on the screen and has probably wished many times that he could meet them. Now this wish is to be granted, for next week when the famous Hal Roach aggregation of youthful funmakers makes its bow in person at the Orpheum, it will hold a reception every afternoon immediately following the last act in the foyer of the Orpheum. Every child attending will have a chance to shake hands with Farina, Joe Cobb and the other 'kids' of the 'Gang.'"
July 25, 1927: From the Los Angeles Times: "There are seven happy 'kids' in town this morning! And there are seven happier dogs! Our Gang and its canine friends were reunited yesterday morning at Central Station. The Gang has been away, appearing in vaudeville, and its paramount worry has been that 'Ducky,' 'Spot,' 'Woolly' and the other dogs were not being fed properly, but yesterday, when the collection of dogs met the gang at the depot, it was sure everything was all right. The Gang has been quite successful on its vaudeville tour. The Gang's appearance at the Orpheum here this week concludes the tour. It includes Joe Cobb, Farina, Jean Darling, Jackie Condon, Aroma, Harry Speers(sic) and Jay Smith."
July 26, 1927: From the Los Angeles Times: "The bespectacled Jay R. Smith, slightly breathless but very much in favor of it all, does the honors. Given an honest chance to exercise his vocal powers after being flattened out against the silent screen for so long, Jay introduces his six companions in devilment with all the gusto of an auctioneer when the bidding becomes spirited. 'Jackie Condon!' he bawls, and in succession presents the others: Jean Darling, Harry Speers(sic), the roly-poly Joe Cobb, the wide-eyed Farina and his sister Aroma."
Sep. 12, 1927: Jay's salary was increased to 60 dollars a week.
1927/1928:Around this time, the Our Gang kids, as well as Laurel & Hardy, were sent to the TeeVee studio to do an experimental broadcast. There isn't any date attached to this occurrence, so it may have happened after Jay left the series.

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 (supporting role: Jay-R): 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 (supporting role): 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 (supporting role): 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 (supporting role): 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: Spec): 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 (supporting role): 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 (supporting role): 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 (supporting role): 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

Mar. 24, 1928: More than 60 of Hollywood's screen children attended the "Screen Kiddies Premiere" of Charlie Chaplin's "The Circus" at Grauman's Chinese Theater. Among those invited were the nine kids and one dog from the 'Our Gang' series.
Mar. 24, 1928: Jay's contract expired. Upon his departure from the series, Jay quipped "You don't know what you will do without me."
1928: Jay returned later during this year for two more appearances. Otherwise, he spent his time being a normal kid outside of show business.

65. Playin' Hookey (supporting role): 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: Farina): 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 (lead role): 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. (featured 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. (supporting 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: Percy): 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.

1929

Sep. 11, 1929: Jay made one last appearance in the Our Gang series on this date.

Hollywood - The Movieland Of The World (appearance): c. early 1929 - California Scenics - 2 reels - travelogue film; Jay and the rest of the Gang are shown posing for photos on the set of "Rainy Days." This footage was shot in Dec. 1927, though other footage in the travelogue was shot as late as Nov. 1928. Raw footage taken for this film, including being-the-scenes footage of the making of "Rainy Days," can be found on YouTube.
81. Election Day (supporting role: Jay R.): 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 (bit part): 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.
94. Moan & Groan, Inc. (small part): Dec. 7, 1929 - Roach/MGM - talkie - 2 reels - prod. G-28 - Our Gang series; Filmed Sep. 3 to 14, 1929. ©Dec. 2, 1929.

1930

Oct. 5 and 7, 1930: Jay returned to the Roach studio on these two dates to appear in a Boy Friends comedy. This would be his final piece of work in the movie business.

1931

Blood And Thunder (bit part: prop man of stage production): Jan. 17, 1931 - Roach/MGM - 2 reels - prod. S-35 - All Star series with The Boy Friends; Filmed Aug. 23 to Sep. 4, 1930, with retakes Sep. 27, 1930, and added scenes Oct. 4 to 7, 1930. ©Nov. 28, 1930. Jay throws water to simulate a storm during the gang's play.

1933

Circa 1933: Jay graduated from high school in Culver City.

1934

July 11, 1934: In a Roach Studio press release regarding the whereabouts of former Our Gang members, Jay was said to be living in Culver City and working as a messenger boy. It also states that he had not worked in the film industry since leaving the series (though this is not strictly true).

1935

1935: In an article titled "A Hasty Glance At Hal Roach's Famous Our Gang," Jay was said to be a messenger boy in Culver City. It also states that he was the oldest, at age 15, upon his departure from the series. Not only was this inaccurate, Jay being 14 when he made his final appearance, but there were a couple of other kids who were older when they retired from the series, though it's possible that the studio was not aware of their true ages.

1936

1936: According to the Daily Variety, Jay married actress Gloria Narath during this year. It's not clear from the online source if the publication was in October, or if the wedding place that month. Gloria's chief claim to fame was being the original voice of Minnie Mouse.

1943

Feb. 18, 1943: Virginia Vale's syndicated column, "Star Dust," reporting on the whereabouts of former Our Gang kids, stated that Jay was currently a successful salesman.
Early 1940's: During World War II, Jay served in the Navy and was stationed in Guam.

1945

1945: After the war ended, Jay returned to California and opened a paint store in Arcadia called Sundry Sales, Inc. He operated the store for the next 15 years.

1959

Take A Good Look episode (appearance): Oct. 22, 1959 - Mansfield-Arnell/ABC - 30 min. - TV episode; Hosted by Ernie Kovacs. Jay appeared along with Jean Darling, Jack Davis, Sherwood Bailey, Johnny Downs and Farina Hoskins.

1960

Circa 1960: During this period, Jay moved to Kailua, Hawaii, and opened a paint and picture frame store, which he operated for the next 20 years.

1980

1980: This was the year that Jay retired. He later left Hawaii and moved to Las Vegas.

1982

Hollywood: The Gift Of Laughter (archival): May 16, 1982 - Wolper/Haley/MPA/ABC - 135 min. - TV movie; Includes footage from "Monkey Business."

1984

Our Gang: Inside The Clubhouse (appearance/archival): May 8, 1984 - Lang/Camellia City Telecasters - 93 mins. - TV documentary; Jay was interviewed for this documentary. Includes footage from "Thundering Fleas."

1994

The Our Gang Story (archival): 1994 - Film Shows/GoodTimes - 120 min. - video documentary; Includes footage from "Monkey Business" and "Shivering Spooks."

1998

Circa 1998: Jay became a semi-regular at the Hollywood Collectors Show in North Hollywood, CA.

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."

2000

Jan. 24, 2000: Jay attended the Way Out West (Sons of the Desert) meeting at the Mayflower Club, along with Dorothy DeBorba.

2001

Oct. 6, 2001: Jay attended the Way Out West 34th Annual Banquet at the Pickwick Banquet Center in Burbank, along with several other Our Gang members.

2002

July 11 to 14, 2002: Jay attended the Sons of the Desert 13th International Convention in Nashville, along with Jean Darling, Dorothy DeBorba and Jerry Tucker. All four attended the entire convention, but their part of the festivities took place on the 12th.
Late 2002: After Jay's tragic death, the Way Out West tent held memorial services for both him and the recently-departed Joe Cobb.

Added Attractions: The Hollywood Shorts Story (appearance): Feb. 5, 2002 - Jones/TCM - 89 min. - TV documentary; Jay was interviewed for this documentary. Includes footage from "The Fourth Alarm!
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."

Jay R. Smith's payroll history

The following is a list of Jay'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.

Apr. 18, 1925 - 5.00 charged to prod. A42 (Boys Will Be Joys)
Starting as a day worker, Jay was given one check for $5 on Apr. 18, reflecting his status as a virtual extra in this film. His name is listed as Jr. Smith.
Apr. 25, 1925 - 20.00 charged to prod. A42
Jay was given checks for $5 on Apr. 20th, 21st, 23rd and 24th.

After this, it would be about a month before Jay returned to the studio.

May 30, 1925 - 15.00 charged to prod. A43 (Better Movies)
Jay was given a check for $5 on May 27th, listed as Jr. Smith. He was then given a check for $10 on May 29th, covering both that day and May 28th. His name appears in the ledger as Junior Smith in this latter entry.
June 6, 1925 - 30.00 charged to prod. A43
On June 6th, Jay was given a check for $30, covering the entire 6-day week at $5 a day. He was now listed in the ledger as J.R. Smith.
June 13, 1925 - 30.00 charged to prod. A43
On June 13th, Jay was given a check for $30, covering the entire 6-day week at $5 a day.
June 20, 1925 - 10.00 charged to prod. A43
On June 16th, Jay was given a check for $10, covering both that day and June 15th at $5 a day. He was back to being listed as Jr. Smith.

After this, it would be three weeks before Jay returned to the studio.

July 11, 1925 - 5.00
During this week Jay was given a check for $5 for one day of work. It's likely that he worked either in the Glenn Tryon comedy Flaming Flappers or the All-Star comedy A Punch In The Nose.

After this, it would be nearly two months before Jay worked at the studio again.

Aug. 22, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K2 (Your Own Back Yard)
The studio was closed during this week for summer vacation, but it's apparent that Jay had been signed to a long-term contract at this time. His name is absent from the payroll ledger, but the payroll summaries indicate that he was making $40 a week.
Aug. 29, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K4 (Good Cheer)
The studio was closed for a second week, and Jay was again absent from the ledger, but the payroll summeries still indicated that he made $40.
Sep. 5, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K4
Sep. 12, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K4
Sep. 19, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K4
Sep. 26, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K4
Oct. 3, 1925 - 40.00 - 20.00 for K4, 20.00 for K5 (Buried Treasure)
Oct. 10, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K5
Oct. 17, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K5
Oct. 24, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K5
Oct. 31, 1925 - 40.00 - 33.33 charged to prod. K5, 6.67 charged to prod. K6 (Monkey Business)
Nov. 7, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K6
Nov. 14, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K6
Nov. 21, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K6
Nov. 28, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K6
Dec. 5, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K6
Dec. 12, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K7 (Baby Clothes)
Jay continued to receive his salary during the making of this film, even though he wasn't in it.
Dec. 19, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K7
Dec. 26, 1925 - 40.00 charged to prod. K7

There were no ledger sheets for the week ending Jan. 2nd, due to the studio being closed, but Jay was still paid his $40.

Jan. 9, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K7
Jan. 16, 1926 - 40.00 - 6.67 charged to prod. K7, 33.33 charged to prod. K8 (Uncle Tom's Uncle)
Jan. 23, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K8
Jan. 30, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K8
Feb. 6, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K8
Feb. 13, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K8
Feb. 20, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K8
Feb. 27, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K9 (Thundering Fleas)
Mar. 6, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K9
Mar. 13, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K9
Mar. 20, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K9
Mar. 27, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K9
Apr. 3, 1926 - 40.00 charged to prod. K9
Apr 10, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K10 (Shivering Spooks)
Apr. 17, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K10
Apr. 24, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K10
May 1, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K10
May 8, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K10
May 15, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K10
May 22, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K10
May 29, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K11 (The Fourth Alarm!)
June 5, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K11
June 12, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K11
June 19, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K11
June 26, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K11
July 3, 1926 - 100.00 - 50.00 charged to prod. K11 (War Feathers), 50.00 vacation pay

For four weeks during July, the studio was closed for summer vacation. Jay didn't receive any check during this stretch, but he did get the extra $50 the week before the hiatus.

Aug. 7, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K12
Aug. 14, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K12
Aug. 21, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K12
Aug. 28, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K12
Sep. 4, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K12
Sep. 11, 1926 - 50.00 - 30.00 charged to prod. K13 (Seeing The World), 20.00 charged to prod. K14 (Telling Whoppers)
Sep. 18, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K14
Sep. 25, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K14
Oct. 2, 1926 - 50.00 - 16.67 charged to prod. K14, 33.33 charged to prod. K15 (Bring Home The Turkey)
Oct. 9, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K15
Oct. 16, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K15
Oct. 23, 1926 - 50.00 - 41.67 charged to prod. K15, 8.33 charged to prod. K13
Oct. 30, 1926 - 50.00 - 33.33 charged to prod. K13, 16.67 charged to prod. K15
Nov. 6, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K13
Nov. 13, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K13
Nov. 20, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K13
Nov. 27, 1926 - 50.00 - 16.67 charged to prod. K13, 33.33 charged to prod. K16 (Ten Years Old)
Dec. 4, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K16
Dec. 11, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K16
Dec. 18, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K16
Dec. 25, 1926 - 50.00 charged to prod. K17 (Love My Dog)
Jan. 1, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K17

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 Jay'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.

Jan. 8, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K17
Jan. 15, 1927 - 50.00
Jan. 22, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K18 (Tired Business Men)
Jan. 29, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K18
Feb. 5, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K18
Feb. 12, 1927 - 50.00
Feb. 19, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K19 (Baby Brother)
Feb. 26, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K19
Mar. 5, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K19
Mar. 12, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K19
Mar. 19, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K19
Mar. 26, 1927 - 50.00
Apr. 2, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K20 (Chicken Feed)
Apr. 9, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K20
Apr. 16, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K20
Apr. 23, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K21 (Olympic Games)
Apr. 30, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K21
May 7, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K21
May 14, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K22 (The Glorious Fourth)
May 21, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K22
May 28, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K23 (Playin' Hookey)
June 4, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K23
June 11, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K23
June 18, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. G1 (Yale Vs. Harvard)
June 25, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. G1
July 2, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K24 (The Smile Wins)

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 Jay wasn't paid during this stretch, but the payroll summaries indicate that he was.

Aug. 6, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. K24
Aug. 13, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. G2 (The Old Wallop)
Aug. 20, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. G2
Aug. 27, 1927 - 50.00
Sep. 3, 1927 &#$5; 50.00 charged to prod. G3 (Heebee Jeebees)
Sep. 10, 1927 - 50.00 charged to prod. G3
Sep. 17, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G3 and G4 (Dog Heaven)
Judging by the numbers, it appears that Jay's salary increase took place on Sep. 12th. It isn't clear whether his salary was split in half between the two productions, or perhaps 1/3 for G3 and 2/3 for G4.
Sep. 24, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G4
Oct. 1, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G3 and G4
It isn't clear whether Jay's salary was split 5/6 for G4 and 1/6 for G3, or 11/12 for G4 and 1/12 for G3.
Oct. 8, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G4
Oct. 15, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G4 and G5 (Spook-Spoofing)
It appears that Jay's salary was probably split 5/12 for G4 and 7/12 for G5.
Oct. 22, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G5
Oct. 29, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G5
Nov. 5, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G4 and G6 (Rainy Days)
It appears that Jay's salary was probably split 1/3 for G4 and 2/3 for G6.
Nov. 12, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G6
Nov. 19, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G6
Nov. 26, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G6
Dec. 3, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G6
Dec. 10, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G6
Dec. 17, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G6 and G7 (Edison, Marconi & Co.)
It appears that Jay's salary was probably split 5/6 for G6 and 1/6 for G7.
Dec. 24, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G6, G7 and G8 Barnum & Ringling, Inc.)
It appears that Jay's salary was probably split 14/36 for G6, 11/36 for G7 and 11/36 for G8
Dec. 31, 1927 - 60.00 charged to prod. G6, G7 and G8
It appears that Jay's salary was probably split 1/6 for G6, 1/6 for G7 and 4/6 for G8

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

Jan. 7, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G8
Jan. 14, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G8
Jan. 21, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G9 (Fair And Muddy)
Jan. 28, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G9
Feb. 4, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G9
Feb. 11, 1928 - 60.00 - 40.00 charged to prod. G9, 20.00 charged to prod. G10 (Crazy House)
Feb. 18, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G10
Feb. 25, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G10
Mar. 3, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G11 (Growing Pains)
Mar. 10, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G11
Mar. 17, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G11
Mar. 24, 1928 - 60.00 charged to prod. G11

After this, Jay's contract expired and he left the Our Gang series. However, he did come back for one day 5 months later.

Aug. 25, 1928 - 10.00 charged to prod. G15 (Election Day)
Jay received a check for $10 on Aug. 22nd.

After this, Jay returned to the studio two and a half months later.

Nov. 10, 1928 - 20.00 charged to prod. G16 (Noisy Noises)
Jay (identified as Jay Smith) received a check for $7.50 on Nov. 5th, and then two checks on Nov. 6th, one for $2.50 and the other for $10. It seems that his daily wage was meant to be $10 and a mistake was made on the 5th.

After this, it would be 10 months before Jay returned to the Roach studio.

Sep. 14, 1929 - 450.00 charged to prod. G28 (Moan & Groan, Inc.)
Jay received a check for $7.50 on Sep. 11th. This was his final appearance in the Our Gang series.

After this, it would be a year and a month before Jay returned to the Roach studio for one last day of work. When he did, it was for the Boy Friends series.

Oct. 11, 1930 - S35 (Blood And Thunder)
I don't have information on Jay's daily wage, but he did work on this film for two days, on Oct. 5th and 7th.

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