American movie stars born in 1916
Here are 45 famous actresses from United States of America were born in 1916:
Maris Wrixon
Maris Wrixon (December 28, 1916 Pasco-October 6, 1999 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Maris Wrixon Fehr, Mary Alice Wrixon or Maris Wrixan was an American actor. She had one child, Kaja Fehr.
Maris Wrixon began her career in 1937 with a role in the film "Ready, Willing and Able". Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, she appeared in over 40 films, including "I Am a Criminal" and "The Saint in Palm Springs". She also had a successful television career, with appearances on popular shows such as "The Lone Ranger" and "Lassie". In addition to acting, Wrixon was a talented singer and performed in several musicals in the 1940s. She retired from acting in the 1950s to focus on raising her daughter and pursuing other interests. Wrixon passed away in 1999 at the age of 82.
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Evelyn Finley
Evelyn Finley (March 11, 1916 Douglas-April 7, 1989 Big Bear City) also known as Evelyn Ruth Finley or Eve Anderson was an American stunt performer and actor.
She began her career as a stunt double for actress Vivien Leigh in "Gone with the Wind" (1939). Finley went on to work as a stunt performer for many other notable films, including "Ben-Hur" (1959) and "Cleopatra" (1963). She also acted in several films, appearing in small roles in "The Day the Earth Stood Still" (1951) and "The Unsinkable Molly Brown" (1964).
In addition to her work in the film industry, Finley was also an accomplished horse trainer and worked on several Western productions. She was a pioneer for women in the stunt industry and became the first female member of The Stuntmen's Association of Motion Pictures.
Finley retired from the entertainment industry in the 1970s and moved to Big Bear City, California, where she lived until her death in 1989.
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Patricia Ellis
Patricia Ellis (May 20, 1916 Birmingham-March 26, 1970 Kansas City) otherwise known as Patricia Leftwich or the Queen of B pictures at Warner Brothers was an American actor.
Patricia Ellis was born in Birmingham, AL and eventually moved to Hollywood to pursue a career in acting. She got her start in the film industry as a contract player at Warner Brothers in the early 1930s. While she never became a major star, she was a popular actress in B movies and appeared in over 60 films throughout her career. In addition to her work in film, she also made numerous appearances on television in the 1950s and 1960s. Following her retirement from acting, Ellis married and settled down in Kansas City. She passed away in 1970 at the age of 53.
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Kate Wilkinson
Kate Wilkinson (October 25, 1916 San Francisco-February 9, 1993 New York) was an American actor.
She began her acting career in theater in the 1930s and went on to star in numerous films during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Some of her notable roles include "Young and Innocent" (1937), "The Women" (1939), and "The Philadelphia Story" (1940). In addition to her successful acting career, Wilkinson was also an avid activist and philanthropist, supporting organizations such as the American Cancer Society and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. She was married to fellow actor David Ross from 1942 until his death in 1982. Wilkinson passed away in 1993 at the age of 76.
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Dinah Shore
Dinah Shore (February 29, 1916 Winchester-February 24, 1994 Beverly Hills) also known as Frances Rose Shore, Fanny or Fanny Rose Shore was an American singer, actor, presenter and tv personality. Her children are called Melissa Montgomery-Hime and John David Montgomery.
Shore rose to fame in the 1940s as a popular vocalist and radio performer, recording hits such as "Buttons and Bows" and "Blues in the Night". In the 1950s, she transitioned to television where she hosted her own variety show, "The Dinah Shore Chevy Show", which aired from 1956 to 1963. She also appeared in several films, including "Till the Clouds Roll By" and "Aaron Slick from Punkin Crick".
Aside from her successful career in entertainment, Shore was also known for her philanthropy work. She was a prominent supporter of Jewish causes and helped found the Dinah Shore Scholarship at Vanderbilt University, which provides financial aid to women pursuing careers in medical research. In 1993, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Bill Clinton for her contributions to American culture.
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Lynne Carver
Lynne Carver (September 13, 1916 Birmingham-August 12, 1955 New York City) also known as Virginia Reid Sampson, Virginia Reed or Virginia Reid was an American actor.
She got her start in the entertainment industry as a model before transitioning to acting. She appeared in over 80 films during her career, including "Topper Takes a Trip" and "Captive Wild Woman." Carver was also a talented singer and performed in several musical films. She was married three times, first to fellow actor William Marshall, then to producer Edward Lasker, and finally to businessman Arthur M. Loew Jr. Sadly, Carver passed away at the age of 38 due to complications from a brain tumor.
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Arleen Whelan
Arleen Whelan (September 1, 1916 Salt Lake City-April 7, 1993 Orange County) also known as arleen_whelan was an American actor.
Whelan began her acting career in the 1930s and made her film debut in "The King and the Chorus Girl" (1937). She appeared in over 50 films throughout her career, including "Young Mr. Lincoln" (1939), "Kiss Me Kate" (1953), and "The Fastest Gun Alive" (1956). She also had notable roles in the TV series "Perry Mason" and "Bonanza". In addition to her acting career, Whelan was involved in various charitable organizations, including the Orange County Philharmonic Society and the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She passed away at the age of 76 due to pneumonia.
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Olivia de Havilland
Olivia de Havilland (July 1, 1916 Tokyo-) also known as Olivia Mary de Havilland, Livvie, Olivia DeHavilland, Olivia De Havilland or Olivia de Haviland is an American actor. She has two children, Benjamin Goodrich and Giselle Galante.
De Havilland rose to fame in the 1930s and 1940s as a leading actress in Hollywood films such as "Gone with the Wind" and "The Adventures of Robin Hood". She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress, the first for her role in "To Each His Own" in 1946 and the second for "The Heiress" in 1949. Later in life, she became an advocate for actors' rights and famously sued Warner Bros over contractual disputes, winning a landmark case that helped to change the way Hollywood studios did business. De Havilland was also awarded the National Medal of Arts and the French Legion of Honour for her contributions to the arts. She passed away in 2020 at the age of 104.
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Evelyn Keyes
Evelyn Keyes (November 20, 1916 Port Arthur-July 4, 2008 Montecito) a.k.a. Evelyn Louise Keyes was an American actor. Her child is called Pablo Huston.
Evelyn Keyes began her acting career in the 1930s and rose to prominence in the late 1940s after appearing in the film "Gone with the Wind" where she played the character of Suellen O'Hara. She went on to star in several successful films including "The Jolson Story," "Here Comes Mr. Jordan," and "Mrs. Mike." In addition to her acting career, Keyes was also a successful author, penning two autobiographical books titled "Scarlett O'Hara's Younger Sister" and "Irene." Keyes was married six times, including to director Charles Vidor and bandleader Artie Shaw. She was also a close friend of actress Bette Davis. Keyes passed away in 2008 at the age of 91.
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Betty Furness
Betty Furness (January 3, 1916 New York City-April 2, 1994 New York City) a.k.a. Elizabeth Mary Furness was an American actor, commentator, advocate, model and politician. Her child is called Babbie Green.
Betty Furness began her career in the 1930s as a fashion model and quickly rose to become one of the most popular models of the time. She appeared in advertisements for well-known brands such as Westinghouse and DuPont. In the 1940s, Furness transitioned to acting and appeared in several films, including the classic film noir "The Big Clock" (1948).
In the 1950s, Furness became a consumer advocate and spokesperson for the television network NBC. She was a regular on the popular TV show "Home," where she tested and showcased new products for the home. Furness later became a consumer advocate for the city of New York, where she fought for consumer protection and fair pricing.
In addition to her career in entertainment and advocacy, Betty Furness also had a political career. She served as a special assistant to President Lyndon Johnson and helped to promote his policies related to consumer protection and civil rights. Furness was also involved in Democratic politics in New York, serving as the director of consumer affairs for the state under Governor Hugh Carey.
Betty Furness passed away in 1994 from cancer. She was remembered as a pioneer in the fields of consumer advocacy and television presenting, and for her contributions to politics and civil rights in America.
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Mary Jane Croft
Mary Jane Croft (February 15, 1916 Muncie-August 24, 1999 Century City) a.k.a. MJ was an American actor. She had one child, Eric Zoller.
Mary Jane Croft started her career as a radio actor in the 1930s before transitioning to television in the 1950s. She is best known for her roles in popular sitcoms like "I Love Lucy", "The Lucy Show", and "The Dick Van Dyke Show". Croft also appeared in numerous films throughout her career, including "The Incredible Mr. Limpet" and "Some Like It Hot". In addition to acting, Croft was also a talented singer and often performed in variety shows. She passed away in 1999 at the age of 83.
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Jean Rogers
Jean Rogers (March 25, 1916 Belmont-February 24, 1991 Sherman Oaks) also known as Eleanor Lovegren or Eleanor Dorothy Lovegren was an American actor.
She is best known for playing the role of Dale Arden in the 1930s sci-fi film serials Flash Gordon and Flash Gordon's Trip to Mars, both of which were based on Alex Raymond's comic strip. Rogers started her acting career as a stage actress before making her film debut in 1933. In addition to her notable performances in the Flash Gordon serials, she also appeared in a number of other films, including the musicals Sing, Baby, Sing and The Lady Objects. After retiring from acting in the 1940s, Rogers worked as a real estate agent and lived a quiet life with her family.
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Virginia Gregg
Virginia Gregg (March 6, 1916 Harrisburg-September 15, 1986 Encino) also known as Virginia Gregg Burket was an American actor and voice actor. She had three children, Gregg del Valle, Jaime del Valle and Ricardo del Valle.
Virginia began her career as a child performer on the stage and later transitioned to radio and television. She became a regular character on many popular radio shows in the 1940s and 1950s, including "Dragnet," "Gunsmoke," and "Lux Radio Theater." She also appeared in numerous films, such as "Operation Petticoat" and "The Ten Commandments."
In addition to her onscreen acting, Virginia also had a successful career as a voice actor. She voiced many characters in animated television shows and movies, including "The Flintstones," "Yogi Bear," and "The Jetsons."
Throughout her career, Virginia earned critical acclaim and was nominated for several awards, including a Primetime Emmy for her guest appearance on the television show "Police Woman." She remained active in the entertainment industry until her death in 1986 at the age of 70.
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Margaret Hayes
Margaret Hayes (December 5, 1916 Baltimore-January 26, 1977 Miami Beach) also known as Florette Regina Ottenheimer, Maggie Hayes, Dana Dale, Margaret 'Maggie' Hayes or Margaret Hayes Swope was an American actor. She had two children, Tracy Brooks Swope and Nan Debuskey.
Margaret Hayes started her career as a model in the 1930s before transitioning to Hollywood films in the 1940s. She appeared in over 40 films in her career, including "Blackboard Jungle" and "Terror in the Haunted House." She was also a regular on television, appearing on shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "Perry Mason," and "Gunsmoke." Hayes was married twice, first to Leif Erickson and then to Broadway producer Russell Crouse. She passed away at the age of 60 from lung cancer.
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Marie Wilson
Marie Wilson (August 19, 1916 Anaheim-November 23, 1972 Hollywood) a.k.a. Katherine Elizabeth Wilson or Katherine Elisabeth Wilson was an American actor. Her child is called Gregson Fallon.
Marie Wilson began her acting career in radio and made her way onto Broadway where she performed in several productions. She later landed her breakout role in the film "The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex" (1939) opposite Bette Davis. Wilson is perhaps best known for her comedic roles, notably as the title character in the radio and television series "My Friend Irma" (1947-1954). She also appeared in over 40 films throughout her career, including "Angel on My Shoulder" (1946) and "Marjorie Morningstar" (1958). In addition to her acting career, Wilson was also known for her philanthropic work and was heavily involved in charitable organizations. She passed away in 1972 at the age of 56 due to complications from cancer.
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Phyllis Fraser
Phyllis Fraser (April 13, 1916 Kansas City-November 25, 2006 Manhattan) also known as Helen Brown Nichols, Phyllis Cerf or Phyllis Fraser Cerf Wagner was an American actor, journalist and publisher. Her children are called Christopher Cerf and Jonathan Cerf.
Phyllis Fraser started her career in 1938, as a radio actor and later moved to television where she hosted shows such as "Miss Rosemary" and "The Children's Hour". In the early 1940s, she became a journalist and wrote for popular publications such as "Ladies' Home Journal" and "Good Housekeeping". In the 1950s, she partnered with her second husband, Bennett Cerf, to co-found the popular publishing company, Random House.
As a publisher, Phyllis Fraser Cerf Wagner played a key role in the company's growth and publication of popular books such as "The Cat in the Hat" by Dr. Seuss and the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee.
Even after the death of Bennett Cerf in 1971, Phyllis continued to contribute to Random House and served as its Senior Vice President until 1991. She was also a member of the board of directors of the New York Public Library and a trustee of the Children's Television Workshop.
Phyllis Fraser Cerf Wagner passed away in 2006 at the age of 90, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in the world of publishing and children's literature.
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Lillian Zuckerman
Lillian Zuckerman (September 16, 1916 Baltimore-October 11, 2004 Miami) also known as Lillian Fara Stein was an American actor.
She began her career on Broadway in the late 1930s, appearing in several productions including "The Straw Hat Revue" and "One for the Money." She then moved onto radio in the 1940s, becoming a popular voice actress on shows such as "The Shadow" and "The Lone Ranger."
Zuckerman made her film debut in 1947 in "The Guilt of Janet Ames" and went on to appear in several films, including "The Cobweb" and "The Three Faces of Eve," for which she received critical praise. She also had recurring roles on television shows such as "The Untouchables" and "Dr. Kildare."
In addition to her acting career, Zuckerman was also a writer and published several short stories and articles throughout her life. She was married to composer and conductor Maurice Zuckerman until his death in 1993.
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Irene Worth
Irene Worth (June 23, 1916 Fairbury-March 9, 2002 New York City) also known as Harriet Elizabeth Abrams or Irene Worth, CBE was an American actor and teacher.
Worth trained at the Old Vic School and went on to become a renowned stage actress, winning three Tony Awards for her performances in "Tiny Alice", "Sweet Bird of Youth", and "Lost in Yonkers". She also received critical acclaim for her performances in productions of Shakespeare plays such as "King Lear" and "Hamlet". In addition to her work on stage, Worth appeared in several films, including "Nicholas and Alexandra" and "Deathtrap". She was also a respected acting teacher, serving as head of the department at the HB Studio in New York City. Throughout her career, Worth was known for her nuanced performances and powerful stage presence, and remains a beloved figure in the world of theatre.
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Dorothea Kent
Dorothea Kent (June 21, 1916 Saint Joseph-August 23, 1990 Hollywood) was an American actor.
She began her acting career in the 1930s and appeared in over 70 films throughout her career, primarily in supporting roles. Kent worked for various studios, including Warner Bros., Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, and Columbia Pictures. Some of her notable film credits include "The Great O'Malley" (1937), "The Roaring Twenties" (1939), and "The Flying Tigers" (1942).
In addition to her film work, Kent also appeared in several TV series in the 1950s and 1960s, including "Perry Mason," "Rawhide," and "Maverick." Her last acting credit was in the 1967 film "Red Tomahawk."
Outside of acting, Kent was known for her passion for horses and horse racing. She often attended races and owned several horses over the years. She was also active in supporting numerous charitable organizations, including the March of Dimes and the John Tracy Clinic for deaf children.
Kent passed away in 1990 at the age of 74.
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Adriana Caselotti
Adriana Caselotti (May 6, 1916 Bridgeport-January 19, 1997 Los Angeles) also known as Caselotti, Adriana or Adriana Mitchell Caselotti was an American actor, singer and voice actor.
She is best known for providing the voice of Snow White in Disney's 1937 animated film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. Caselotti was the first person to be signed to a personal contract by Walt Disney himself. In addition to her work as the voice of Snow White, Caselotti also had a brief acting career in which she appeared in a handful of films and television series throughout the 1940s and 1950s. She was also an accomplished singer, recording several albums throughout her career. After her retirement from acting, Caselotti focused on teaching voice lessons and occasionally appeared at conventions and events to speak about her work as the voice of Snow White.
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Alicia Rhett
Alicia Rhett (February 1, 1916 Savannah-January 3, 2014 Charleston) was an American actor and painter.
She is best known for her portrayal of India Wilkes in the classic film "Gone with the Wind". After a near-fatal car accident in 1941, Rhett decided to retire from acting and focus on her passion for painting. She became a well-respected artist, and her work was exhibited in galleries throughout the southeast United States. Alicia Rhett was also known for her philanthropic work and dedication to charitable organizations, including the Charleston Symphony Orchestra and the Charleston Library Society. She remained a beloved figure in her community until her passing in 2014.
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Betty Grable
Betty Grable (December 18, 1916 St. Louis-July 2, 1973 Santa Monica) also known as Elizabeth Ruth Grable, Frances Dean, The Pin-Up Girl, The Girl With the Million Dollar Legs, The Darling of the Forties, The Quick-Silver Blonde, The Queen of the Hollywood Musical, America's Ideal Girl or Elizabeth Ruth "Betty" Grable was an American singer, pin-up girl, actor and dancer. Her children are called Victoria Elizabeth James and Jessica James.
Betty Grable got her start in Hollywood in the 1930s, primarily appearing in musicals and comedies. Her breakthrough role came in 1940's "Down Argentine Way," which led to a long-term contract with 20th Century Fox. During World War II, she became one of the most popular pin-up girls among American soldiers and even had her legs insured for $1 million. Grable's most famous role came in 1953's "How to Marry a Millionaire," co-starring Marilyn Monroe and Lauren Bacall. She retired from acting in the mid-1950s and passed away in 1973 from cancer.
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Mercedes McCambridge
Mercedes McCambridge (March 16, 1916 Joliet-March 2, 2004 La Jolla) also known as Mercedes Agnes Carlotta McCambridge, Carlotta Mercedes Agnes McCambridge, Mercy or Carlotta Mercedes McCambridge was an American actor. Her child is called John Lawrence Fifield.
McCambridge began her career as a radio performer and in 1949, she won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film "All the King's Men." She also gained critical acclaim for her performance in the 1952 film "Sudden Fear." McCambridge continued to work in both film and television throughout her career, and she was known for her distinctive voice, which led to her being cast in several voice-over roles, including the demon voice in the film "The Exorcist." Despite her success, McCambridge struggled with alcoholism throughout much of her life and was vocal about her efforts to overcome it later in life.
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Ruth Warrick
Ruth Warrick (June 29, 1916 Saint Joseph-January 15, 2005 Manhattan) also known as Mrs. Citizen Kane, Ruth Elizabeth Warrick or Dame Ruth Warrick was an American actor, singer and activist. She had three children, Karen Elizabeth Rolf, Timothy McNamara and Jon Rolf.
She started her career on radio in the 1930s and made her film debut in Citizen Kane (1941), playing the first wife of the title character. She went on to have a successful career in both film and television, appearing in films such as Sister Kenny (1946) and TV shows such as Peyton Place (1964-1969) and All My Children (1970-2005). She was also an active member of the Screen Actors Guild and served as its president from 1975-1979. In addition to her acting career, Warrick was an advocate for many causes, including animal rights and the arts. She was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1983.
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Martha Raye
Martha Raye (August 27, 1916 Butte-October 19, 1994 Los Angeles) also known as Margaret Teresa Yvonne Reed, The Big Mouth, Margy Reed or The Female Bob Hope was an American actor, singer and comedian. She had one child, Melodye Raye Condos.
Martha Raye began her career in entertainment in the 1930s as a singer and dancer, performing in nightclubs and on Broadway. She made her film debut in the 1934 movie "Ready for Love" and went on to appear in over 80 films throughout her career. Raye was known for her comedic talents and often played brash, wisecracking characters. She also had a successful television career, starring in her own variety show, "The Martha Raye Show," in the 1950s.
Beyond her entertainment career, Raye was also known for her philanthropic work, particularly for her support of the United States military. She made numerous trips overseas to perform for troops and became an honorary member of the Green Berets, the Special Forces of the United States Army.
Despite her success, Raye faced challenges in her personal life, including multiple marriages and struggles with addiction. She passed away in 1994 at the age of 78.
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Rochelle Hudson
Rochelle Hudson (March 6, 1916 Oklahoma City-January 17, 1972 Palm Desert) a.k.a. Rochelle Elizabeth Hudson was an American actor.
She started her acting career at the age of 10, appearing in several silent films. She became a contract player at major studios in the 1930s, working with the likes of Shirley Temple and James Cagney. Hudson also had a successful career on radio and appeared in numerous television shows in the 1950s and 1960s. In addition to her acting career, she was also involved in animal welfare activism, and wrote a book on animal care. Hudson died of a heart attack at the age of 55.
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Sandra Gould
Sandra Gould (July 23, 1916 Brooklyn-July 20, 1999 Burbank) was an American actor, writer and comedian. She had one child, Michael Berns.
Gould began her career in show business with a role in the Radio City Music Hall's production of "Anything Goes." She later moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career in television and film. Gould became best known for her role as Gladys Kravitz in the popular TV series "Bewitched" which aired from 1964 to 1972. She also appeared in other television shows such as "The Donna Reed Show," "The Andy Griffith Show," and "The Lucy Show." Gould continued to act in films and television until the 1990s. Additionally, she was an accomplished writer, and authored a memoir called "Always Say Maybe." Gould passed away at the age of 82 in Burbank, California, three days before her 83rd birthday.
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Helen Beverley
Helen Beverley (November 9, 1916 United States of America-July 15, 2011 Woodland Hills) also known as Helen Beverly was an American actor. Her child is called Julie Cobb.
Helen Beverly began her career in entertainment in the 1940s and was mostly known for her work in television shows and films. She appeared in popular TV series such as "The Twilight Zone," "Gunsmoke," and "Perry Mason." She also acted in movies like "The Magnetic Monster" and "Women's Prison." In addition to acting, Beverly was also a talented singer and appeared on various radio shows that showcased her vocal abilities. After retiring from acting in the 1960s, she worked as a voiceover artist and lent her voice to various advertisements and documentaries. Beverly was married to the actor Lee J. Cobb from 1940 to 1958 and their daughter, Julie Cobb, followed in their footsteps and became an actor herself. Helen Beverly passed away in 2011 at the age of 94.
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Jean Rouverol
Jean Rouverol (July 8, 1916 St. Louis-) also known as Jean Rouveral is an American screenwriter, actor and author.
She started her career as an actor and appeared in films such as "Our Town" and "They Knew What They Wanted." In the 1940s, she transitioned to screenwriting and wrote for popular TV shows such as "The Twilight Zone," "The Waltons," and "Little House on the Prairie." Rouverol was also a novelist and wrote several books, including her memoir "Refugees from Hollywood: A Journal of the Blacklist Era" which chronicled her experiences being blacklisted during the McCarthy era. She was married to actor and screenwriter Hugo Butler, with whom she frequently collaborated. Rouverol passed away on March 24, 2017.
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Jeni Le Gon
Jeni Le Gon (August 14, 1916 Chicago-December 7, 2012 Vancouver) also known as Jennie Le Gon, Jenny Le Gon, Jennie May Ligon, Jennie Bell or Jeni LeGon was an American actor, dancer and dance instructor.
Le Gon began her career as a dancer at the age of 16 and quickly became known for her energetic and athletic style. She performed in vaudeville shows and later in Hollywood musicals, including the 1935 musical "Hooray for Love" with Bill "Bojangles" Robinson. In a time when Black performers were often relegated to background roles, Le Gon's talent and charisma made her a trailblazer in the industry.
She also worked as a dance instructor, teaching stars like Lena Horne and Van Johnson. In the 1960s, Le Gon moved to Europe and continued performing in stage productions and films. Despite facing racism and discrimination throughout her career, she remained a passionate advocate for the arts and the importance of representation in media.
Le Gon received numerous awards and honors throughout her life, including induction into the Black Filmmakers Hall of Fame in 1975 and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1999. She passed away in Vancouver at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking achievements in the entertainment industry.
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Fran Ryan
Fran Ryan (November 29, 1916 Los Angeles-January 15, 2000 Burbank) otherwise known as Frances Mary "Fran" Ryan or Frances Mary Ryan was an American actor, voice actor and character actor. Her child is called Christopher Shafer.
Ryan had an extensive career in Hollywood, beginning with minor roles in the 1950s and 1960s. She appeared in numerous television shows, including Gunsmoke, Bonanza, and The Addams Family. She also had supporting roles in films such as The Great White Hope and Pale Rider.
In addition to her on-screen work, Ryan was a prolific voice actor. She provided voices for various animated television shows, including The Smurfs, DuckTales, and The Real Ghostbusters.
Throughout her career, Ryan was known for her tough-talking, no-nonsense characters, often playing motherly or grandmotherly roles. She was beloved by audiences for her sharp wit and strong acting skills.
Ryan continued to work in Hollywood until her death in 2000 at the age of 83.
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Pamela Mason
Pamela Mason (March 10, 1916 Westgate-on-Sea-June 29, 1996 Beverly Hills) otherwise known as Pamela Ostrer or Pamela Kellino was an American screenwriter, actor and author. She had two children, Portland Mason and Morgan Mason.
Born in Kent, England, Pamela Mason began her career as a stage actor in London before moving to Hollywood in the 1940s. She appeared in over 20 films throughout her career including "Hitler's Madman" (1943), "Odd Man Out" (1947) and "The Story of Esther Costello" (1957). She was also a successful screenwriter, co-writing the screenplay for the film "Lady Possessed" (1952).
In addition to her work in film, Mason was the author of several books. She wrote an autobiography titled "Pamela" which was published in 1963 and a cookbook titled "The Mason-Dixon Memory Line Cookbook" which was published in 1986.
Mason was married to actor James Mason from 1941 to 1964. They appeared in several films together including "The Seventh Veil" (1945) and "The Desert Fox: The Story of Rommel" (1951).
After divorcing James Mason, Pamela moved to Rome, Italy where she wrote for Italian film and television. She later returned to the United States and settled in Beverly Hills, California where she passed away in 1996 at the age of 80.
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Cathy Lewis
Cathy Lewis (December 27, 1916 Spokane-November 20, 1968 Los Angeles) also known as Catherine Lewis was an American actor.
She began her career in the 1940s as a radio actress, and soon transitioned to film and television. Lewis is perhaps best known for her role as the wife of Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve in the popular radio show, The Great Gildersleeve. She also starred in several films, including the musical comedy Merton of the Movies and the drama Little Women. In addition to her acting career, Lewis was also a skilled writer and director, and worked on various TV shows such as The Donna Reed Show and Leave It to Beaver. Despite her success, Lewis struggled with alcoholism and died at the age of 51 due to complications from the disease.
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Doris Nolan
Doris Nolan (July 14, 1916 New York City-July 29, 1998 Berwick-upon-Tweed) also known as Doris was an American actor and model. Her child is called Andrew Knox.
Doris Nolan began her acting career in the mid-1930s and quickly gained recognition and praise for her performances on stage and in film. She appeared in several films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, including "The Great Ziegfeld" and "The Gay Divorcee". In the 1950s, she transitioned to primarily working on stage productions, appearing in numerous Broadway productions such as "The Chalk Garden" and "The Pleasure of His Company". She also appeared on various television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Despite her success in the entertainment industry, Nolan ultimately chose to retire from acting in the early 1970s. She lived the remainder of her life in the United Kingdom, where she had relocated with her husband, journalist Andrew S. Knox. In addition to her successful career, Nolan was also known for her philanthropic work and support of the arts.
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Dorothy McGuire
Dorothy McGuire (May 28, 1916 Omaha-September 13, 2001 Santa Monica) also known as Dorothy Hackett McGuire, Dottie or Dorothy McGuire Swope was an American actor. She had two children, Topo Swope and Mark Swope.
McGuire began her acting career in theater, appearing in productions of "Our Town" and "The Women" on Broadway. She then transitioned to film, and is known for her roles in movies such as "Gentleman's Agreement" (1947), "The Enchanted Cottage" (1945), and "A Summer Place" (1959).
McGuire was also a talented singer and appeared in musicals such as "Broadway Serenade" (1939) and "Till the Clouds Roll By" (1946).
Throughout her career, McGuire was nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in "Gentleman's Agreement." She was also inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 1995.
Offscreen, McGuire was politically active and participated in civil rights and anti-war protests during the 1960s and 1970s. She was married to playwright and screenwriter John Swope until his death in 1979.
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Lucille Bliss
Lucille Bliss (March 31, 1916 New York City-November 8, 2012 Costa Mesa) also known as Lucille Theresa Bliss was an American actor and voice actor.
She began her career in 1935 as a radio actor, and eventually transitioned to doing voice-over work for cartoons and animated films. Bliss provided the voice for various iconic characters, including Crusader Rabbit, Smurfette in The Smurfs, and Ms. Bitters in Invader Zim. She also lent her voice to numerous commercials and video games. Bliss received many accolades throughout her career, including a Primetime Emmy nomination for her voice work on The Smurfs. In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, Bliss was also an advocate for animal rights and worked with animal rescue organizations.
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Robin Raymond
Robin Raymond (October 4, 1916 Illinois-June 20, 1994 Los Angeles) also known as Robyn Raymond was an American actor.
He appeared in over 50 films and television shows throughout his career, including "The Roaring Twenties," "The Asphalt Jungle," and "Gunsmoke." Raymond was known for his versatility, playing both comedic and dramatic roles with equal skill. He also had a successful career in theater, appearing in numerous productions on Broadway and in regional theaters across the country. In addition to his work as an actor, Raymond was also an accomplished director, producer, and screenwriter, and wrote several plays throughout his career. He was a dedicated supporter of the arts and helped establish several theater companies and arts organizations in California.
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Hadda Brooks
Hadda Brooks (October 29, 1916 Los Angeles-November 21, 2002 Los Angeles) also known as Hattie L. Hapgood, Queen of the Boogie or Hadda Hapgood was an American pianist, composer, singer and actor.
Brooks was one of the first ever African-American women to own her own music label, Modern Records, which became a successful outlet for rhythm and blues artists in the 1950s. She was also recognized as a highly skilled pianist, and her boogie-woogie style of playing the piano earned her fame as the "Queen of Boogie." Brooks began her career performing in small clubs in Los Angeles and quickly gained a loyal following. She went on to perform in venues around the world, including the Hollywood Bowl and Carnegie Hall. In addition to her music career, Brooks also acted in several films, including "Out of the Blue" and "Killer Diller." She continued to perform and record music throughout her life until her passing in 2002.
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Perry Wilson
Perry Wilson (July 13, 1916 Bound Brook-December 30, 2009 Chestnut Hill) a.k.a. Mary Elizabeth Wilson or Perry Wilson Anthony was an American actor. She had two children, Ellen Anthony and Peter Anthony.
Throughout her career, Perry Wilson appeared in numerous stage productions, films and television shows. Some of her notable film credits include "The Long, Hot Summer", "David and Lisa", "Slaughterhouse-Five" and "Regarding Henry". On television, she made appearances on popular shows such as "The Twilight Zone", "Kojak", "Dallas" and "Law & Order". Wilson was also a respected stage actress, performing in both Broadway and off-Broadway productions, including "The Time of Your Life" and "The Country Girl". In addition to her work as an actress, Wilson was also a teacher and mentor to many aspiring actors. She passed away in 2009 at the age of 93.
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Margaret Draper
Margaret Draper (November 20, 1916 Spanish Fork-October 14, 2011 Payson) also known as Margaret Ruth Draper was an American actor. Her child is called Christopher De Santis.
Margaret Draper appeared in over 20 films and television shows throughout her career, including "The Best Years of Our Lives" (1946), "The Philco Television Playhouse" (1949), and "The Adventures of Kit Carson" (1952). She was also a stage actress, working in numerous Broadway productions in the 1940s and 1950s, and was a founding member of the Actors Studio in New York City. Later in life, Margaret became a prolific writer, publishing a number of articles and short stories.
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Sally Insul
Sally Insul (October 3, 1916 Chicago-August 4, 2008 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
She started her career as a child performer on the vaudeville stage, and later transitioned to film and television. Insul appeared in several films during the 1930s and 1940s, including "The Great Ziegfeld" and "The Women". She also had a successful career in television, appearing in shows such as "The Beverly Hillbillies", "Perry Mason", and "The Lucy Show". Insul was known for her versatility as an actor, and her ability to play both comedic and dramatic roles. In addition to her acting career, Insul was also an active philanthropist, supporting organizations such as the Jewish Home for the Aging and the Women's Guild Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
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Elizabeth Russell
Elizabeth Russell (August 2, 1916 Philadelphia-May 4, 2002 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
She graduated from the Grand Central School of Art and was studying at the Art Students League of New York when she was discovered by a talent scout, who helped her secure a contract with Paramount Pictures. Russell appeared in over 20 films throughout her career, including "The Corpse Vanishes" (1942), "The Cat Creeps" (1946), and "The Curse of the Cat People" (1944). Despite her relatively small body of work, she is remembered as a classic Hollywood horror icon, working with directors like Jacques Tourneur and Robert Wise, and acting alongside stars such as Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff. In her later years, Russell turned her focus towards animal rights activism, and was a devoted member of the Human Society.
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Zypora Spaisman
Zypora Spaisman (January 2, 1916 Poland-May 18, 2002) was an American actor.
She was best known for her work in Yiddish theater, where she performed in over 20 plays throughout her career. Born in Poland, Spaisman's family immigrated to the United States when she was just a year old. She began acting at a young age under the tutelage of her father, who was a director and actor in Yiddish theater. Spaisman was a founding member of the Folksbiene Yiddish Theater in New York City and served as its artistic director for over 40 years. She also appeared in several films and television shows, including "The People vs. Dr. Kildare" and "The Twilight Zone." In addition to her acting career, Spaisman was also a teacher and mentor to many young actors in the Yiddish theater community. She was known for her dedication to preserving the traditions and language of Yiddish theater, and her contributions to the art form will always be remembered.
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Jeanne Carpenter
Jeanne Carpenter (February 1, 1916 Kansas City-January 5, 1994 Oxnard) otherwise known as Theo-Alice Jeanne Carpenter, Jean Carpenter, Theo-Alice Carpenter or Taji was an American actor. She had five children, Don Michael Drysdale, Gloria Mitzi Grimes Rosson, Angela Jeanne Grimes Wilkins, Victoria Lee Grimes Holsinger and Theo-Alice Mimi Grimes Gordon.
Carpenter began her acting career in the 1940s and appeared in numerous television shows and films throughout her career, including "The Fugitive", "Perry Mason", and "Star Trek". She was also known for her work on stage, particularly in the Off-Broadway production of "The Blacks" in the 1960s. In addition to her work in entertainment, Carpenter was a dedicated civil rights activist and fought for racial equality throughout her life. She was a close friend of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and supported him in his efforts to end segregation and discrimination against African Americans. Carpenter passed away in 1994 at the age of 77.
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Sloan Simpson
Sloan Simpson (October 18, 1916 Dallas-November 27, 1996) was an American fashion consultant, tv personality, radio personality, fashion model, actor and writer.
Simpson began her career in the fashion industry as a model, working with designers such as Norman Hartnell and Christian Dior. She later became a fashion consultant and went on to host her own television show, "Inside Fashion with Sloan Simpson," which aired in the 1950s and 60s. Simultaneously, she was also a radio personality and co-hosted the popular show "The Breakfast Club."
In addition to her work in fashion and media, Simpson was also an accomplished writer and author of several books, including "The Right Way to Dress," and "How to Buy the Right Clothes." She was also a talented actor, appearing in several films and television shows throughout her career.
Simpson's contributions to the fashion industry and her influence on American style were widely recognized during her lifetime, earning her a place in the International Best Dressed Hall of Fame and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She continued to work and inspire others in the fashion industry until her passing in 1996.
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