Waterville, a village on the Ring of Kerry, was a favourite holiday location for movie star Charlie Chaplin and his family. He and his family were perennial visitors to the local hostelry, The Butler Arms Hotel. A famous comedian actor of the 1920s silent movies era, Charlie Chaplin and his family enjoyed the anonymity of life in this picturesque location. They appreciated the remoteness of the location, away from the trappings of fame, and Charlie enjoyed many hours of fishing on Lough Currane.

The bronze life sized statue was unveiled in 1998 and overlooks Ballinskelligs Bay. It was designed by sculptor Alan Ryan Hall and jointly commissioned by the Chaplin estate and the local community organisation.

To honour Charlie, there is an annual Charlie Chaplin Comedy Film Festival, which is held in memory of the actor and his family.