The Sheik, starring Rudolph Valentino, hit big screens on November 6, 1921. It received negative reviews, but went on to launch the cult of Valentino, attracting women across America.
The star died young, at 31, leading to such an outpouring of grief that movie studios shut down for his funeral. It was the first time they had ever done that for an actor.
Apparently, over 100,000 people lined the streets of New York City to pay respect at the funeral. Windows were smashed by fans trying to get in, and the body was eventually taken by train across America, for a second funeral in Beverly Hills.
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