Hal Roach was a film producer, director, and actor who is best known for his work in the silent film era. He produced over 200 films, including the popular Our Gang series, and was one of the most successful independent producers of his time. Roach was also the first to introduce synchronized sound to motion pictures with the release of the musical short 'The Jazz Singer' in 1927. He was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.