Quirk, James R.

James R. Quirk (September 4, 1884 – August 1, 1932) was an American magazine editor. Quirk was the vice president and editor of Photoplay, one of the earliest fan magazines and particularly popular in the silent film era. Quirk had been with the magazine since its founding in 1911. Quirk’s magazine had many popular rivals such as Motion Picture Magazine, Modern Screen, Classic Screen, and Screenland.

In 1917 he joined The Lambs.

Quirk had also been editor of the Washington Times prior to his involvement with Photoplay and editor of the periodical Popular Mechanics. He was publisher of The Smart Set from 1928-1930.

Quirk was the uncle of Lawrence J. Quirk who gave out an award in James’s memory that covered many aspects of the film business. His first wife was Elizabeth North with whom they had three children. His second wife was silent film actress May Allison from 1926 until his death.

Quirk died August 1, 1932, of bronchial pneumonia and heart disease, in Los Angeles. He is buried at Kensico Cemetery, Westchester County, New York.