American movie stars born in 1901
Here are 47 famous actresses from United States of America were born in 1901:
Helen Ferguson
Helen Ferguson (July 23, 1901 Decatur-March 14, 1977 Clearwater) was an American actor, publicist and journalist.
Throughout her career, Helen Ferguson appeared in over 50 films, including silent films such as "The Knife" (1918) and "The Sentinel" (1918), as well as sound films like "Charlie Chan in Paris" (1935) and "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" (1938). Following her acting career, she worked as a publicist for film studios such as Warner Bros. and Universal Pictures. Additionally, Ferguson was a journalist and columnist for publications such as the Los Angeles Times and the Hollywood Citizen-News. She was married to film director Roy Del Ruth from 1924 until their divorce in 1928. Ferguson passed away in 1977 at the age of 75.
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Connie Gilchrist
Connie Gilchrist (February 6, 1901 Brooklyn-March 3, 1985 Santa Fe) also known as Rose Constance Gilchrist was an American actor and singer.
She began her career as a singer in vaudeville shows and later transitioned to acting in films and on stage. Gilchrist appeared in over 40 films throughout her career and was known for her comedic roles. In addition to her successful acting career, she was also a painter and exhibited her artwork in galleries. Gilchrist was married to actor Guy Bates Post and later to illustrator and writer Russell Patterson. She spent her later years in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she continued to paint until her death in 1985.
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Peggy Allenby
Peggy Allenby (February 14, 1901 New York City-March 23, 1966 New York City) otherwise known as Eleanor Byrne Fox was an American actor.
She began her acting career on Broadway in the early 1920s and eventually made her way to Hollywood in the 1930s. Some of her notable film appearances include "The House Across the Bay," "The Mysterious Mr. Moto," and "My Favorite Wife."
In addition to her acting career, Allenby was also a skilled musician and songwriter. She wrote the lyrics for several popular songs of the 1920s, including "Sweetheart of Sigma Chi" and "I'm Gonna Meet My Sweetie Now."
Allenby was also involved in activism throughout her life, particularly in the fight for women's rights. She served on the board of the National Women's Party and was a vocal advocate for women's suffrage.
Allenby retired from acting in the 1940s and returned to New York City, where she continued to write music and remain active in social advocacy until her passing in 1966.
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Etta Moten Barnett
Etta Moten Barnett (November 5, 1901 Weimar-January 2, 2004 Chicago) also known as Etta Moten was an American singer and actor. She had three children, Sue Brooks, Gladys Brooks and Etta Vee Brooks.
Etta Moten Barnett is best remembered for her performance in the 1943 movie "Flying Tigers," in which she sang the song "Remember Me." She was the first African-American to perform at the White House, singing for Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt in 1933. She was also the first African-American woman to perform in a leading role on Broadway in the 1934 production of "Zombie." Etta was involved in civil rights work throughout her life, serving on the board of the NAACP and participating in the March on Washington in 1963. She was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 1992 by President George H.W. Bush, and in 2003, she was inducted into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame.
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Carol Dempster
Carol Dempster (December 9, 1901 Duluth-February 1, 1991 La Jolla) was an American actor.
She started her career as a model before being discovered by legendary film director D.W. Griffith. Griffith would cast her in several of his films and she would eventually become his protégé and romantic partner. Dempster would go on to star in several successful films and was considered one of Hollywood’s most popular stars during the 1920s. After her retirement from acting, she became a recluse and was rarely seen in public. Despite her fame, she remained a deeply private person and little is known about her personal life.
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Mildred Davis
Mildred Davis (February 22, 1901 Philadelphia-August 18, 1969 Santa Monica) also known as Mildred Hillary Davis or Mid was an American actor. Her children are called Harold Lloyd Jr., Marjorie Elisabeth Lloyd and Gloria Lloyd.
Mildred Davis began her acting career in the silent film era, and became best known as the leading lady and wife of comedian Harold Lloyd, whom she married in 1923. She appeared in many of his most famous films including "Safety Last!", "The Freshman", and "Girl Shy". After the birth of their three children, Davis reduced her workload and made fewer films, but continued to act in a variety of genres. She was also a talented writer and served as an uncredited screenwriter on some of her husband's films. Later in life, Davis and Lloyd were active philanthropists, donating to various causes and organizations. Davis passed away in 1969 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease.
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Bebe Daniels
Bebe Daniels (January 14, 1901 Dallas-March 16, 1971 London) otherwise known as Bebe Virginia Daniels, Phyllis Daniels, Bebe Daniels Lyon, Phyllis Virginia Daniels, Bebe Lyon, Bebe or The Girl was an American actor, film producer, dancer, singer and screenwriter. She had two children, Barbara Lyon and Richard Lyon.
Bebe Daniels began her career in the entertainment industry at a young age, appearing on the vaudeville stage and in silent films. She quickly became a popular star in the 1920s, starring in films such as "The Volga Boatman" and "Rio Rita". Daniels was also known for her singing and dancing skills, and recorded several successful albums.
In the 1930s, Daniels moved to England and continued her career as a film actress there. She also worked as a producer and screenwriter, and even formed her own production company. During World War II, Daniels put her career on hold and worked as a nurse for the British Red Cross.
After the war, Daniels returned to the entertainment industry, primarily working in television. She appeared on several popular shows, including "Life with the Lyons" which she also produced alongside her husband, Val Valentine. Daniels continued to work in television until her death in 1971 at the age of 70.
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Stella Adler
Stella Adler (February 10, 1901 New York City-December 21, 1992 Los Angeles) also known as Stella Ardler or Lola Ardler was an American actor, teacher, screenwriter, acting coach, author and theatre director. She had one child, Ellen Adler.
Stella Adler was born to a family of Jewish immigrants and began acting at a young age. She was a prominent member of the Group Theatre in New York City, alongside fellow acting legends Lee Strasberg and Sanford Meisner. She later founded the Stella Adler Studio of Acting, a theatre school that continues to operate in New York City and Los Angeles.
In addition to her work in theatre, Adler also acted in films and television shows, including the classic Marlon Brando film "On the Waterfront." She was known for her dedication to the craft of acting and her focus on emotional truth in performance.
Beyond her acting and teaching work, Adler was also a passionate activist for social and political causes. She was involved in the Civil Rights Movement, participated in protests against the Vietnam War, and was a vocal supporter of feminism and LGBTQ+ rights. Her legacy as both an artist and activist continues to inspire actors and social justice advocates today.
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Evelyn Brent
Evelyn Brent (October 20, 1901 Tampa-June 4, 1975 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Mary Elizabeth Riggs, Bettie Riggs, Betty Riggs or Betty was an American actor.
She began her career in silent films in the 1910s and went on to star in over 120 films throughout her career. Some of her notable films include "Mamba" (1930), "Underworld" (1927), and "The Last Command" (1928). Brent was known for her versatility as an actor and was able to transition smoothly from silent films to sound films. In addition to her successful career in films, she was also a model and a talented dancer. After retiring from acting, Brent worked as a real estate agent. She passed away in 1975 at the age of 73.
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Mildred Dunnock
Mildred Dunnock (January 25, 1901 Baltimore-July 5, 1991 Oak Bluffs) also known as Mildred Dorothy Dunnock was an American actor and teacher.
Dunnock is widely recognized for her talent and contributions to Broadway and Hollywood, having appeared in numerous stage productions, films, and television shows throughout her career. She made her Broadway debut in 1927 and received critical acclaim for her roles in plays such as "Death of a Salesman" and "Long Day's Journey Into Night."
Her film career included roles in several classic films such as "The Snake Pit," "The Trouble with Harry," and "Sweet Bird of Youth." She earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Baby Doll" in 1956.
In addition to her acting career, Dunnock was also a dedicated teacher and mentor. She taught acting at Smith College and later at the Actors Studio in New York City, where she worked with some of the most renowned actors of her time.
Throughout her life, Dunnock received numerous awards and honors, including induction into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 1981. She is remembered as a talented and versatile performer who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry.
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Mildred Harris
Mildred Harris (November 29, 1901 Cheyenne-July 20, 1944 Los Angeles) also known as Mrs. Charlie Chaplin or Mildred Harris Chaplin was an American actor. She had two children, Norman Spencer Chaplin and Everett Terrence McGovern Jr..
Mildred began her career in the film industry at the young age of 11. She acted in several short films and made her way up to feature films. Mildred rose to fame in the 1910s, starring in several popular films of the time. Her most notable performance was in the 1919 film "The Miracle Man."
In 1918, Mildred married Charlie Chaplin, who was 29 years old at the time, when she was just 16 years old. They divorced three years later in 1921, making her the first of Chaplin's four wives.
After her divorce from Chaplin, Mildred continued to act in films, but her career slowly declined. She struggled with alcoholism and financial instability. Mildred eventually retired from acting in the late 1920s and worked in a department store for several years.
Mildred Harris passed away in 1944 at the age of 42 due to complications from tuberculosis.
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Babe London
Babe London (August 28, 1901 Des Moines-November 29, 1980 Woodland Hills) also known as Jean London, Jean Glover, Babe or Ruth Glover was an American actor, comedian and painter.
She began her career in vaudeville and later appeared in several films in the 1920s and 1930s. She was known for her comic timing and her ability to play ditzy characters. In addition to her acting career, she was also a talented painter and exhibited her work in galleries throughout California. Later in life, she became an avid philanthropist and donated to several organizations, including the Motion Picture Retirement Home. Despite her success in the entertainment industry, Babe London remained down-to-earth and never lost her sense of humor.
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Adelaide Hall
Adelaide Hall (October 20, 1901 Brooklyn-November 7, 1993 Charing Cross Hospital) a.k.a. Hall, Adelaide was an American singer and actor.
She is best known for her work in jazz music and was one of the most popular performers of the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s. Throughout her career, Hall performed on Broadway, in London’s West End, and on film. She also made several recordings, many of which have become classics of the jazz era. Hall was also a trailblazer for African-American performers, breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations of artists. Outside of her career, she was also known for her philanthropic work, including supporting various charities and giving back to her community.
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Lee Patrick
Lee Patrick (November 22, 1901 New York City-November 26, 1982 Laguna Beach) also known as Patrick was an American actor.
She appeared in over 100 films and television shows in a career that spanned four decades. Patrick started her acting career on Broadway and later transitioned to Hollywood, where she became known for her supporting and character roles in films such as "The Maltese Falcon" (1941) and "Now, Voyager" (1942). She also had a recurring role as Henrietta Topper in the TV series "Topper" (1953-1955). In addition to her acting work, she was also a talented writer and authored a memoir titled "Hello, Everybody, I'm Lee Patrick."
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Gay Seabrook
Gay Seabrook (April 1, 1901 Seattle-April 18, 1970 Bedford Hills) also known as Gladys Johnson was an American actor.
She began her acting career in the 1920s, appearing in stage productions in New York City. Her first film role was in the 1928 movie "Lilac Time," and she went on to act in over 30 films throughout her career.
Seabrook was known for her versatility, playing a range of roles from comedic to dramatic. She appeared in notable films such as "White Heat" (1949), "The Greatest Show on Earth" (1952), and "The Big Heat" (1953). She also appeared in several popular TV shows of the time, including "The Twilight Zone" and "Bonanza."
In addition to her acting career, Seabrook was a philanthropist and supporter of the arts. She donated her time and money to several charitable organizations and was actively involved in the Bedford Hills community where she lived.
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Betty Mack
Betty Mack (November 30, 1901 Illinois-November 5, 1980 Placerville) also known as Idalene Thurber was an American actor.
Betty Mack began her career in the entertainment industry as a vaudeville performer at a young age. She later transitioned into films, appearing in over 40 films throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Some of her notable roles were in "The Love of Sunya" (1927), "The Terror" (1928), and "The Bad One" (1930).
In addition to acting, Mack was also a talented singer, dancer, and comedian. She even starred in her own short film series, "Betty Mack Comedies," which showcased her comedic talents.
Mack's career declined in the 1940s, and she retired from acting in the 1950s. However, she remained active in the entertainment industry as a talent agent and casting director in Hollywood.
Despite her success in the entertainment industry, Mack's personal life was tumultuous. She was married four times and had numerous legal issues, including a conviction for fraud in the 1950s. After her retirement, she moved to Placerville, California, where she passed away in 1980 at the age of 78.
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Joanna Roos
Joanna Roos (January 11, 1901 Brooklyn-May 13, 1989 Princeton) was an American actor and playwright.
After attending Vassar College, Roos began her career as an actress in the theater, making her Broadway debut in 1923. She went on to appear in several successful Broadway productions throughout the 1920s and 1930s, often playing leading roles in dramas and comedies.
In addition to her work as an actress, Roos was also an accomplished playwright. She wrote several plays that were produced on Broadway, including "The Big Pond" and "Hedda Gabler," the latter of which was an adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's classic play.
Throughout her career, Roos worked with many of the most important figures in the American theater, including George Abbott and Elia Kazan. She was also involved in the founding of the Actors Studio in New York City, which helped launch the careers of many of the most famous actors of the 20th century.
Roos continued to work in the theater until the end of her life, both as an actress and a playwright. She passed away in 1989 at the age of 88.
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Natalie Moorhead
Natalie Moorhead (July 27, 1901 Pittsburgh-October 6, 1992 Montecito) a.k.a. Nathalia Messner or Natalie Moorehead was an American actor.
She began her acting career in silent films and went on to appear in more than 130 films throughout her career, primarily in supporting roles. Some of her notable films include "Little Caesar" (1931), "The Divorcee" (1930), and "The Women" (1939). Moorhead was also a popular character actor on television, appearing on shows such as "Perry Mason" and "The Twilight Zone." She was known for her distinctive voice, which she once described as sounding "like a buzz saw dipped in honey." Outside of her acting career, Moorhead was actively involved in animal welfare organizations and was an advocate for the Humane Society.
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Juanita Hall
Juanita Hall (November 6, 1901 Keyport-February 28, 1968 Bay Shore) a.k.a. Juanita Long or Juanita Hall Singers was an American singer and actor.
Juanita Hall started her career as a nightclub singer in the 1920s and later became a successful Broadway performer. She appeared in several shows, including the original production of Rodgers and Hammerstein's "South Pacific" in 1949, for which she won a Tony Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical.
Hall also appeared in the film adaptation of "South Pacific" in 1958, in which she reprised her role as Bloody Mary. Her other film credits include "The King and I" (1956) and "Flower Drum Song" (1961).
In addition to her acting career, Hall was also a respected music arranger, vocal coach, and director. She formed her own choral group, the Juanita Hall Singers, who performed traditional Negro spirituals and folk songs.
Despite her successful career, Hall faced racial discrimination throughout her life, and often struggled to find work as a black actress in Hollywood. Despite the challenges she faced, Hall continued to be a trailblazer for African American performers in the entertainment industry.
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Florence Eldridge
Florence Eldridge (September 5, 1901 Brooklyn-August 1, 1988 Long Beach) also known as Florence McKechnie was an American actor. She had two children, Penelope March and Anthony March.
Eldridge began her acting career in theater, performing in Broadway productions such as "The Cat and the Fiddle" and "Liliom." She later transitioned to film and appeared in over 30 movies throughout her career, including "The Jazz Singer," "Les Misérables," and "The Ten Commandments." Eldridge was known for her versatility as an actress and her ability to play a variety of roles, from dramatic to comedic. In addition to her work in theater and film, Eldridge also acted in television, with appearances on shows such as "Studio One" and "The Twilight Zone." Outside of acting, Eldridge was an avid supporter of the Democratic Party and was active in social causes such as civil rights and the anti-Vietnam War movement.
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Marlene Dietrich
Marlene Dietrich (December 27, 1901 Schöneberg-May 6, 1992 Paris) also known as Marie Magdalene Dietrich, Maria Magdalena Dietrich, Maria Magdalene Sieber, marlene_dietrich, Dietrich, Marlene, Marlena Dietrichová, Lena, Lene, Lili Marlene, Marlena, Marie Magdalene "Marlene" Dietrich, Marlene or Marie Magdelene Dietrich von Losch was an American singer, actor and violinist. Her child is called Maria Riva.
Marlene Dietrich was born in Berlin, Germany and began her career as a cabaret singer in the 1920s. She later transitioned to Hollywood and became one of the highest-paid actresses of her time, known for her roles in films like "Morocco", "Shanghai Express", and "Destry Rides Again". Dietrich was also known for her androgynous style and glamorous persona, which made her an icon of the golden age of Hollywood. She was a staunch anti-Nazi and used her platform to support the Allied forces during World War II, performing for troops and raising money for the war effort. In addition to her successful film and music careers, Dietrich was also a writer, publishing her autobiography, "Marlene", in 1987. She spent her final years living in Paris, where she died at the age of 90.
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Mary Philips
Mary Philips (January 23, 1901 New London-April 22, 1975 Santa Monica) otherwise known as Mary Phillips was an American actor.
She started her career as a stage actress before transitioning to film in the 1930s. She appeared in over 70 films during her career, often playing supporting roles. Some of her most notable films include "Three Smart Girls" (1936), "The Shop Around the Corner" (1940), and "It Happened on Fifth Avenue" (1947). She was known for her ability to play sharp-tongued, no-nonsense characters. In addition to her work in film, she also appeared on television and radio shows. In her personal life, she was married to actor and producer Humphrey Bogart's older brother, Leslie, from 1936 until his death in 1945. Mary Philips passed away in 1975 at the age of 74.
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Carmelita Geraghty
Carmelita Geraghty (March 21, 1901 Rushville-July 7, 1966 Manhattan) was an American actor.
She appeared in over 70 films between 1917 and 1940. Geraghty was a popular leading lady during the silent film era, often playing opposite stars such as Rudolph Valentino and John Barrymore. She transitioned to supporting roles in sound films and had memorable performances in movies such as "The Thin Man" and "The Roaring Twenties." Outside of acting, Geraghty was also a talented writer, penning multiple short stories and poems. She was married to fellow actor John Harrington until his death in 1956.
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Helen Ainsworth
Helen Ainsworth (October 10, 1901 San Jose-August 18, 1961 Hollywood) also known as Cupid Ainsworth was an American actor and film producer.
Helen Ainsworth began her career as an actor in the silent film era, appearing in small roles in films like "The Valley of the Moon" and "The Cat and the Canary." She gained recognition as a comedic actress in the 1930s, appearing in films such as "The Awful Truth" and "The Women." Ainsworth also had a successful career as a film producer, with her most notable production being the 1944 film "National Velvet," which launched the career of a young Elizabeth Taylor. In addition to her work in the film industry, Ainsworth was also a philanthropist, supporting various charitable causes throughout her life.
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Gilda Gray
Gilda Gray (October 24, 1901 Kraków-December 22, 1959 Hollywood Boulevard) otherwise known as The Shimmy Queen or Marianna Michalska was an American actor and dancer. Her child is called Martin Gorecki.
Gilda Gray was born in Kraków, Poland and immigrated to the United States at a young age. She began her career as a dancer and quickly gained popularity for her unique style of dance, which became known as the "shimmy." Her breakthrough performance came in the 1920s when she starred in the Ziegfeld Follies on Broadway.
Gray also appeared in several films during the 1920s and 1930s, including "The Devil Dancer" (1927), "The Shopworn Angel" (1928), and "Diamonds" (1929). She was known for her sultry on-screen presence and her ability to captivate audiences with her dancing.
In addition to her work on stage and screen, Gray was also a successful businesswoman. She owned several nightclubs, including the famous Gilda Gray's Club in Hollywood. Her nightclub was a popular spot for celebrities and high society, and she became known as one of the most successful female nightclub owners of her time.
Gray passed away at the age of 58 and is remembered as a trailblazing performer and entrepreneur in the entertainment industry.
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Mabel Albertson
Mabel Albertson (July 24, 1901 Lynn-September 28, 1982 Santa Monica) was an American actor. She had two children, George Englund and Patricia Englund.
Mabel began her career in the 1920s performing in vaudeville acts and on stage. She made her film debut in 1936 with a minor role in "The Good Earth" and went on to appear in over 80 films and television shows throughout her career. She was best known for her role as Phyllis Stephens on the TV show "Bewitched" and for her portrayal of Mrs. Carter on "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." Mabel was married to actor Harold Austin from 1926 until his death in 1952.
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Jacqueline Logan
Jacqueline Logan (November 30, 1901 Corsicana-April 4, 1983 Melbourne) also known as Jacqueline Medura Logan was an American actor, film director and screenwriter.
Logan began her career in the silent film era and gained great popularity in the 1920s, appearing in more than 70 films throughout her career. She worked for major studios such as MGM, Warner Bros., and Paramount, and co-starred with legendary figures such as Rudolph Valentino and Norma Shearer. Despite her success, Logan eventually decided to move behind the camera and began directing and writing screenplays for films. She continued to work on films into the 1940s before retiring from the industry. In addition to her film work, Logan was also active in the theater and worked as a drama coach. She passed away in Melbourne, Australia at the age of 81.
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Sharon Lynn
Sharon Lynn (April 9, 1901 Weatherford-May 26, 1963 Hollywood) otherwise known as D'Auvergne Sharon Lindsay, Lindsay La Verne or Sharon Lynne was an American actor.
Sharon Lynn began her career in vaudeville and made her Broadway debut in 1920. She appeared in a number of stage shows before transitioning to film in the mid-1920s. She appeared in over 50 films, often playing comedic or supporting roles. She is perhaps best known for her role as Mrs. Bailey in the Christmas classic "It's a Wonderful Life" (1946). In addition to her work on stage and screen, Lynn was also an accomplished radio actress, appearing in numerous programs throughout the 1930s and 1940s. She passed away in Hollywood in 1963 at the age of 62.
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Eden Gray
Eden Gray (June 9, 1901 Chicago-January 14, 1999 Vero Beach) also known as Priscilla Pardridge was an American actor. She had one child, Peter Gray.
In addition to her acting career, Eden Gray was a prolific writer on the topic of occultism and tarot card reading. She authored several books, including "The Tarot Revealed" and "Mastering the Tarot". Gray also held workshops and gave lectures on tarot card reading, which helped to popularize the practice in the United States during the 1960s and 1970s. She was a member of the American Tarot Association and was highly regarded in the tarot community for her knowledge and expertise. Gray passed away in 1999 at the age of 97, leaving behind a legacy as a leading figure in the field of tarot card reading.
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Georgia Backus
Georgia Backus (October 13, 1901 Columbus-September 7, 1983 Sun City) was an American actor.
She started her acting career in the 1920s, and her film debut was in the 1929 film "Bulldog Drummond." Backus went on to appear in numerous films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, including "City Streets" (1931), "The Little Giant" (1933), and "My Favorite Spy" (1942).
She also had a successful stage career, performing in several Broadway productions, including "The Women" (1936), "Sightly Scandalous" (1938), and "Never Say Die" (1939).
In addition to her acting career, Backus was also involved in radio and television. She appeared on several TV shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including "Our Miss Brooks" and "Batman."
Backus retired from acting in the late 1960s and lived in Sun City, where she died in 1983 at the age of 81.
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Vilma Bánky
Vilma Bánky (January 9, 1901 Nagydorog-March 18, 1991 Los Angeles) also known as Vilma Banky, Vilma Konsics Bánky, Vilma Lonchit, Vilma Koncsics, The Hungarian Rhapsody or Koncsics Vilma was an American actor.
Vilma Bánky was born and raised in Hungary and started her acting career in Budapest in the early 1920s. She quickly became one of the most popular actors in Hungary and was discovered by Hollywood producer Samuel Goldwyn, who brought her to the United States in 1925. Bánky became a leading lady in silent films and starred alongside actors such as Rudolph Valentino and Ronald Colman. She was often cast in roles that portrayed her as a mysterious and exotic foreigner.
Bánky's most famous role was in the 1926 film "The Son of the Sheik," where she starred opposite Valentino. She retired from acting in 1933 after the transition to sound pictures, as her thick Hungarian accent made it difficult for her to be cast in roles. After retiring, she became a successful real estate agent in Beverly Hills. Bánky never married but was engaged to actor Rod La Rocque for several years. She passed away in 1991 at the age of 90.
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Lila Lee
Lila Lee (July 25, 1901 Union Hill-November 13, 1973 Saranac Lake) also known as Augusta Appel, Cuddles or Augusta Wilhelmena Fredericka Appel was an American actor. She had one child, James Kirkwood Jr..
Lee began her acting career as a child actress in the silent film era, making her debut in the 1910 film "The Ghost of Twisted Oaks" at the age of nine. She then went on to play various supporting roles in silent films throughout the 1910s and 1920s, including "The Unchastened Woman" (1918) and "Blood and Sand" (1922).
In the 1930s, Lee transitioned to sound films and continued to work steadily in both film and television throughout the following decades. Some notable works include "Dangerous Paradise" (1930), "The Unholy Garden" (1931), and the television series "Perry Mason" (1960s).
Aside from her acting career, Lee was also known for her beauty, and was famously photographed by George Hurrell in the 1920s. She was also romantically linked to various Hollywood stars throughout her career, including Douglas Fairbanks Jr. and Howard Hughes.
Lee retired from acting in the 1960s and spent her later years living a quiet life in upstate New York. She passed away in 1973 at the age of 72 due to a heart attack.
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Allene Ray
Allene Ray (January 2, 1901 San Antonio-May 5, 1979 Temple City) also known as Allene Burch or Allie Ray was an American actor.
Allene Ray began her career in silent films during the 1910s and continued acting in films until the 1940s. She was best known for her roles in adventure and Western films, often playing the lead female character. She starred in popular films such as "The Shadow of the Eagle" (1932) and "The Adventures of Tarzan" (1921). Ray also appeared in several early sound films and worked as a stuntwoman. In addition to her acting career, she was also a successful businesswoman and owned her own beauty shop and bookstore. Ray retired from films in 1941 and remained out of the public eye until her death in 1979.
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Helen Menken
Helen Menken (December 12, 1901 New York City-March 27, 1966 New York City) also known as Helen Meinken or Helen Mienken was an American actor.
Menken made her Broadway debut in 1923 and subsequently appeared in over a dozen plays throughout her career. She is perhaps best known for her performance in the original Broadway production of "The Philadelphia Story" in 1939, for which she was nominated for a Tony Award. Menken also had a successful film career, appearing in over two dozen movies including "Stage Door" (1937) and "She's No Angel" (1933). She was married four times, including to Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Arthur Miller, from 1945 to 1955. In addition to her acting work, Menken was an avid supporter of animal rights and donated much of her time and money to various animal welfare organizations.
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Mary Eaton
Mary Eaton (January 29, 1901 Norfolk-October 10, 1948 Hollywood) was an American actor, dancer and singer.
She is best known for her work in early Hollywood films such as "52nd Street" (1932) and "The Cocoanuts" (1929). Eaton began her career as a dancer in vaudeville before transitioning to film. She starred in several Broadway productions before landing her first film role in "Glitter" (1921). Eaton was known for her energetic dancing style and her comedic timing. She continued to act in films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, often playing the role of the leading lady or the comedic sidekick. She passed away at the age of 47 due to a heart attack.
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Pauline Starke
Pauline Starke (January 10, 1901 Joplin-February 3, 1977 Santa Monica) also known as Pauline Stark was an American actor.
Starke began her career as a teenager, working as a dancer in vaudeville shows. She made her official film debut in 1918, and her career quickly took off. She appeared in over 70 films throughout her career, including "The Charlatan" (1929), "The Haunted House" (1929), and "The Case of the Velvet Claws" (1936).
In the early 1930s, Starke's career began to decline, and she retired from acting in 1935. She then focused on her personal life, marrying oil magnate Edward L. Doheny Jr. in 1940. After Doheny's death in 1945, Starke remained active in social circles, but largely stayed out of the public eye.
Despite her relatively short career, Starke was a talented actor who had a significant influence on the film industry. In recognition of her contributions, she was posthumously inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1988.
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Marjorie Eaton
Marjorie Eaton (December 5, 1901 Oakland-April 21, 1986 Palo Alto) also known as Marjorie Lee Eaton or Marjorie Morley Eaton was an American actor and painter.
She began her acting career in the 1920s appearing in films such as "The Cat and the Canary" (1927) and "The Bat Whispers" (1930). However, Eaton is perhaps best known for her memorable role as the ancient and mystical landlady in the film "The Reincarnation of Peter Proud" (1975).
In addition to her acting career, Eaton was also a prolific painter, creating surreal and fantastical works of art. She exhibited her paintings in Los Angeles and New York, and her work was featured in several prominent collections.
Later in life, Eaton suffered from glaucoma and eventually lost her sight. Despite this, she continued to paint with the help of a trusted assistant. Eaton passed away at the age of 84 in Palo Alto, California.
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Janet Adair
Janet Adair (January 7, 1901 Louisiana-October 1, 2005 Sarasota) was an American actor.
She began her acting career in the 1920s, appearing in small roles in silent films. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Adair continued to work steadily in films, often portraying supporting characters. She also appeared in numerous stage productions, including several on Broadway. In the 1950s, Adair transitioned to television, appearing in popular shows of the era such as "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet" and "Dragnet." Adair continued to act into her 90s, making her last appearance in the 2002 film "Far from Heaven." She was married twice and had one daughter. Adair was also a philanthropist, donating generously to various charities throughout her life.
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Gloria Hope
Gloria Hope (November 9, 1901 Pittsburgh-October 29, 1976 Pasadena) a.k.a. Olive Beech Francies or Olive Frances was an American actor. She had two children, Isabel Francies Hughes and Donald Reid Hughes.
Gloria Hope began her acting career on Broadway in the 1920s before transitioning to film in the 1930s. She appeared in over 30 films throughout her career, often playing small roles or uncredited parts. Some of her notable film appearances include "The Petrified Forest" (1936), "Nothing Sacred" (1937), and "The Women" (1939).
In addition to her work in film and theater, Hope was also a vocal advocate for civil rights and social justice. She participated in the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, and was an active member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).
Later in life, Hope continued to act on stage and in television shows such as "Perry Mason" and "Gunsmoke." She passed away in 1976 at the age of 74.
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Lois Austin
Lois Austin (April 3, 1901 Minneapolis-April 26, 1957 Hollywood) was an American actor.
She began her acting career in the early 1920s in silent films under the stage name "Lois Austin," which she changed from her birth name, Gertrude Messenger. She appeared in over 60 films throughout her career, often in supporting roles. Some of her notable films include "Her Wild Oat" (1927), "Bulldog Drummond's Revenge" (1937), and "The Dark Corner" (1946). Austin also acted on the stage and is known for her role in the 1924 Broadway production of "The Fool." Despite her prolific career, Austin is not as well-known as some of her contemporaries, and her work has largely been forgotten over time.
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Sylvia Field
Sylvia Field (February 28, 1901 Allston-July 31, 1998 Fallbrook) a.k.a. Harriet Johnson, Harriet Louisa Johnson or Sylvia Field Truex was an American actor. She had one child, Sally Moffet.
Sylvia Field was born Harriet Louisa Johnson in Allston, Massachusetts. She began her career in acting in the 1920s in New York's Greenwich Village theater movement. She appeared in multiple Broadway productions throughout the 1920s and 1930s, including "Petticoat Fever" and "Dead End."
In 1941, Field moved to Hollywood and began appearing in films, including "The Human Comedy" and "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn." She is perhaps best known for her role as Mrs. Wilson, Dennis the Menace's neighbor, on the television show "Dennis the Menace."
Field also made television appearances on shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "The Donna Reed Show." In addition to her acting career, she was also a teacher of drama and speech.
Sylvia Field passed away in 1998 at the age of 97 in Fallbrook, California.
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Mary Hay
Mary Hay (August 22, 1901 Fort Bliss, Texas-June 4, 1957 Inverness) also known as Mary Hay Caldwell was an American actor, dancer and playwright. She had three children, Mary Barthelmess, Anne Bath and Joyce Hastings.
Mary Hay began her career in the entertainment industry as a dancer in Broadway shows, including the popular Ziegfeld Follies from 1919 to 1924. She went on to act in a handful of films in the 1920s, and continued to perform on stage throughout the 1930s.
In addition to her work as an actor and dancer, Hay also wrote several plays, including "The Spider" and "The Man in the Iron Mask." She was a founding member of the Screen Actors Guild and was active in various social causes, including campaigns to support civil rights and aid refugees during World War II.
Hay's personal life was tumultuous at times, including a highly publicized divorce from her second husband, actor Richard Barthelmess. Despite the challenges she faced, Hay remained an active and respected member of the entertainment industry until her untimely death from cancer in 1957.
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Sally Long
Sally Long (December 5, 1901 Kansas City-August 12, 1987) was an American actor and dancer.
She got her start in vaudeville and later transitioned onto the Broadway stage where she appeared in multiple productions. In the 1920s, she moved to Hollywood and began acting in silent films. Long's career continued through the 1930s and 1940s where she appeared in both film and on Broadway. She is best known for her work in the films "The Big Broadcast" (1932) and "Heaven Can Wait" (1943) as well as her Tony Award-winning performance in the musical "The King and I" (1956). In addition to her work on stage and screen, Long was an accomplished painter and sculptor. She died in 1987 at the age of 85.
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Marvel Rea
Marvel Rea (November 9, 1901 Ainsworth-June 17, 1937 Los Angeles) also known as Marvel L. Wilkinson or Marvel Luciel Rea was an American actor.
Rea began her acting career in the 1920s, and appeared in numerous films throughout her career including "Hold 'em Jail" (1932), "Reducing" (1931), "Handy Andy" (1934), and "King of Burlesque" (1936). She was often cast in supporting roles, and was known for her versatility in both comedic and dramatic roles.
In addition to acting, Rea was also a trained singer and dancer, and performed in several musicals on Broadway in the 1920s. She was a popular performer in vaudeville as well, often appearing in comedy sketches and musical acts.
Despite her career successes, Rea struggled with personal issues throughout her life, and died at the young age of 35 from an overdose of sleeping pills. Her tragic death cut short what could have been a brilliant career in Hollywood.
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Hilo Hattie
Hilo Hattie (October 28, 1901 Honolulu-December 12, 1979 Honolulu) a.k.a. Clarissa Haili, Claire Haili, Clara Nelson, Auntie Clara Nelson, Clarissa "Clara" Haili, Mrs. Carlyle Nelson, Clara or Hattie, Hilo was an American musician, singer, actor, dancer, comedian and teacher.
She was known as the "First Lady of Hawaiian Music" and was an important figure in spreading Hawaiian culture and music throughout the United States. Hattie began her career in the 1920s, performing in vaudeville shows and on radio. She also appeared in several Hollywood films, including "Song of the Islands" and "Pagan Love Song." Hattie opened her first store in 1963, selling Hawaiian clothing and souvenirs. The store became a popular tourist destination and expanded to several locations throughout Hawaii. Hattie was also an advocate for the rights of Native Hawaiians and helped establish the Queen Liliuokalani Children's Center, which provides support and resources for at-risk youth. She was inducted into the Hawai'i Academy of Recording Arts Hall of Fame in 1972.
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Irna Phillips
Irna Phillips (July 1, 1901 Chicago-December 23, 1973 Chicago) was an American writer, screenwriter, actor and tv program creator.
Often referred to as the "Mother of the Soap Opera," Irna Phillips is credited with creating some of the most iconic daytime dramas in television history, including "Guiding Light," "As The World Turns," and "Days of Our Lives." Prior to her success in television, Phillips got her start in radio, writing and acting in serialized dramas that would eventually became a staple of daytime radio programming. Known for her ability to create relatable characters and compelling storylines, Phillips revolutionized the soap opera genre and set the standard for decades to come. In addition to her work in television, she was also a prolific author, penning several novels and plays throughout her career.
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June Tripp
June Tripp (June 11, 1901 United Kingdom-January 14, 1985 New York City) a.k.a. June Howard Tripp, June Howard-Tripp or June was an American actor.
June Tripp was born in the United Kingdom and began her career in British silent films in the 1920s. She is perhaps best known for her role as Betty Schaefer in the 1929 film "Sunset Boulevard." In addition to her work in film, Tripp also had a successful stage career and appeared in several Broadway productions. After moving to the United States in the 1930s, she continued to act on stage and in film. Some of her other notable film credits include "The Constant Nymph" (1928), "Children of Chance" (1930), and "Her First Affaire" (1932). Tripp retired from acting in the mid-1930s and later worked as a fashion writer and columnist. She passed away in New York City in 1985.
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