Bald-headed, handlebar-moustachioed actor, remembered for his "double take, followed by a slow burn," who was often Stan and Ollie's foil in Laurel & Hardy shorts and feature films for more than a decade through 1940. Considered by many to be an essential component in any good Laurel & Hardy movie, Finlayson's legendary 'staccato' style mannerisms and crazed squints have made him an icon in Laurel and Hardy cinema history. He appeared in 33 such films, his best reckoned to have been as Mr Peter Cucumber in 'Me & My Pal', Mickey Finn in 'Way out West', and The Brides Father in 'Our Wife'.

Many think of his bushy moustache as a trademark, but in fact it was only a prop. In many of the films he made outside of Roach Studios he appeared clean shaven. Also, although today he is frequently known simply as "Fin," it is doubtful he ever heard that nickname in his life. He preferred to be called "Jim."

Any written comments on the great man's abilities cannot do him justice, and some feel a lasting memorial should be build in the area around Larbert Cross, close to his birthplace. See a 'dummy-up' of such a structure on the 'odd' page. Also, use the links page to catch up on several fine tributes to James Finlayson.
A final tribute here, and a note of trivia:
Dan Castellaneta, the voice of Homer Simpson, has said that Homer's "D'oh!" was inspired by James Finlayson's use of the same exclamation.