Joseph Cawthorn (1868–1949) was an American actor and comedian, known for his long career spanning vaudeville, Broadway theater, and sound film. He began his career as a child, quickly gaining recognition for his comedic performances, which were often characterized by a "Dutch" accent. He became a leading star on Broadway in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, starring in numerous successful operettas and musical comedies such as *The Fortune Teller* and *The Sunshine Girl*. With the advent of sound film, Cawthorn moved to Hollywood, where he became a respected character actor, appearing in over 50 films. His most memorable film roles include Dr. Ziegfeld in the Oscar-winning musical *The Great Ziegfeld* (1936) and his appearances in films such as *White Zombie* (1932) and *Love in Quarantine* (1934). Although he did not receive any major formal awards, his consistent success and ability to adapt to changes in the entertainment industry established him as a significant figure in American entertainment of his era.