Born in Los Angeles, CA. Brother of Emmy Award-winning actor Charles Ruggles (1886-1970). He was an actor in stock when he entered films in 1914 as a Keystone Cop and supporting comedy player, appearing in, among other films, Chaplin shorts such as THE BANK, SHANGHAIED (both 1915), POLICE, CARMEN (both 1916), and TRIPLE TROUBLE (1918). A director from 1918 to 1946, he had an uneven career, enjoying his best period in the late 20s (SILK STOCKINGS, 1927) and in the early 30s (CIMARRON, 1931, and I'M NO ANGEL, 1933). Ruggles also produced during the 1930s and 40s. He was the first (1931-37) of seven husbands of actress Arline Judge.    Nominated for Directing 1930-31: CIMARRON 1 nomination