Comic actor Billy West is best remembered as one of Chaplin's finest imitators. Born in Russia but raised in Chicago after age two, West started out in vaudeville at age 14 using the name William B. West. He became a Chaplin imitator in 1915 and his talent allowed him to break into films the following year.
He imitated the British comedian for several years, but then developed his own successful persona. ~ Sandra Brennan, All Movie Guide. 