Charles "Buddy" Rogers was a respected actor, jazz musician and humanitarian. Born in 1904 in Olathe, Kansas, Rogers attended the University of Kansas. After college, he headed to California where he acted in Hollywood films. Rogers performed with his own jazz ensemble in movies and on radio where he was skilled with several instruments including the trombone. Rogers is best remembered for his starring role opposite Clara Bow in the first ever Best Picture winner Wings (1927). The black and white classic features the leading man at his most dashing when he embraces and kisses Richard Arlen on his character's deathbed. It was one of the first films to feature two men kissing. Rogers has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He died at the age of 94 in 1999.