For other people with the same name, see William Gilbert (disambiguation). For the silent film actor (1891-1961), see Billy Gilbert (silent film actor).William Gilbert Barron (September 12, 1894 – September 23, 1971), known as Billy Gilbert, was an American comedian and actor known for his comic sneeze routines. He appeared in over 200 feature films, short subjects and television shows starting in 1929. He is not to be confused with silent film actor Billy Gilbert (1891-1961), a.k.a.