Born in Bolton, Lancashire, Aubrey was the son of US born gymnast Robert Aubrey. Later a member of the Fred Karno variety troupe, he first traveled to New York in 1900, then settled permanently after emigrating from London, on August 29, 1908. An early understudy of Charlie Chaplin, he later achieved leading status during the silents era (Oliver Hardy once providing support). Following his career decline as a starring performer, he was initially given work by Laurel & Hardy, before embarking on a career as a bit-part player in over 300 features.