He is remembered most for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes on the stage.
Gillette formulated the complete phrase: "Oh, this is elementary, my dear fellow".
This was later shortened to "Elementary, my dear Watson" in talking movies.
Gillette and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle became lifelong friends.
Gillette often produced and directed the plays he was in.
He also wrote plays and at least two books and was an avid inventor.
He made significant contributions to the theatre with his designs of stage settings,
trick stage props, and special sound and lighting effects.
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