Santell directed over 60 films, beginning in 1917, most of which were two-reel comedy short subjects for
Hal Roach and other productions companies. Taking up feature films from about 1924, Santell worked for several major studios. In 1934, he was married to actress Jane N. Keithley; they remained married until her death. He left the business in 1947 after a contract dispute with
Republic Studios. Santell died on June 19, 1981, in Salinas, California. ==Partial filmography==