American movie stars died in 2002
Here are 50 famous actresses from United States of America died in 2002:
Peggy Lee
Peggy Lee (May 26, 1920 Jamestown-January 21, 2002 Bel-Air) a.k.a. Peggy Norma Egstrom Lee, Peggie Lee, Norma Delores Egstrom, Norma Deloris Egstrom, Peggy Lee, Si and Am, Miss Peggy Lee or Lee, Peggy was an American songwriter, singer, actor and composer. She had one child, Nicki Lee Foster.
Peggy Lee was one of the most popular singers of the 1950s and 1960s, known for her sultry voice and jazz-inspired songs. She began her career as a singer in the late 1930s and soon made a name for herself as a performer with the Benny Goodman Orchestra. Lee went on to record several hit songs, including "Fever," "Is That All There Is?" and "Why Don't You Do Right?"
Aside from her music career, Peggy Lee was also a talented actress and made several appearances in films and on television, including a memorable role in the Disney animated classic "Lady and the Tramp." She earned numerous awards and accolades throughout her career, including three Grammy Awards and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
Peggy Lee continued to perform and record music until her death in 2002 at the age of 81. Today, she is remembered as one of the greatest vocalists of all time and a pioneering woman in the world of jazz and popular music.
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Linda Lovelace
Linda Lovelace (January 10, 1949 The Bronx-April 22, 2002 Denver) a.k.a. Linda Boreman or Linda Susan Boreman was an American pornographic film actor and actor.
Lovelace rose to fame in the early 1970s due to her performance in the iconic adult film "Deep Throat". However, later in her life, she became an anti-pornography activist and spoke out against the abuse and exploitation she experienced in the industry. Lovelace also wrote two autobiographies, "Ordeal" and "Out of Bondage", which detailed the physical and emotional abuse she faced at the hands of her husband and the porn industry. Despite her controversial past, Lovelace's legacy as a survivor and advocate for women's rights continues to inspire many to this day.
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Lisa Lopes
Lisa Lopes (May 27, 1971 Philadelphia-April 25, 2002 La Ceiba) a.k.a. Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes, Left Eye, Lisa "Left Eye" Lopez, Lopes, Lisa "Left Eye", Lisa Nicole Lopes, L. Lopez, N.I.N.A. or N.I.N.A was an American singer, songwriter, actor, singer-songwriter, musician, rapper and dancer. She had two children, Snow Lopes and Jamal Lopes.
Lopes was best known as a member of the popular R&B girl group TLC, which she joined in 1991. She contributed to the group's success with her unique rap style and edgy personality. Their hits included "Waterfalls," "No Scrubs," and "Creep." In addition to her music career, Lopes was involved in various philanthropic efforts, including building a community center for youth in her hometown of Atlanta. She also appeared on several reality shows, including "The Real World" and "Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew." Sadly, Lopes died in a car accident in Honduras in 2002 at the age of 30.
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Rosemary Clooney
Rosemary Clooney (May 23, 1928 Maysville-June 29, 2002 Beverly Hills) a.k.a. Roesmary Clooney, Rosenary Clooney, Rosie, Rose Mary Clooney or the Clooney Sisters was an American singer and actor. She had five children, Miguel Ferrer, Rafael Ferrer, Monsita Ferrer, Gabriel Ferrer and Maria Ferrer.
Clooney rose to fame in the 1950s with hits such as "Come On-a My House" and "Half as Much." She also starred in several films, including "White Christmas" with Bing Crosby. Throughout her career, Clooney received numerous accolades, including a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In addition to her successful music and acting career, she was also an advocate for mental health issues and raised awareness about bipolar disorder, which she herself was diagnosed with.
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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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Kim Hunter
Kim Hunter (November 12, 1922 Detroit-September 11, 2002 New York City) also known as Janet Cole was an American actor and voice actor. She had two children, Sean Emmett and Kathryn Emmet.
Kim Hunter's career spanned over five decades and she is best known for her roles in the films "A Streetcar Named Desire" and "Planet of the Apes" where she played the character of Zira. She also appeared in various television shows such as "The Edge of Night," "The Doctors," and "The Hitchhiker."
In addition to her work on screen, she was also a successful stage actress and won a Tony Award for her performance in the play "A Streetcar Named Desire." She was an active member of the Actors Studio and worked closely with the founder, Lee Strasberg.
Hunter was also involved in social activism and was a supporter of the Democratic Party. She actively protested against the Vietnam War and was a strong advocate for civil and women's rights.
After her death in 2002, her daughter Kathryn Emmett released a memoir titled "Goodnight, Sweet Marilyn" which revealed her mother's close friendship with Marilyn Monroe.
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Barbara Berjer
Barbara Berjer (June 12, 1920 Seattle-October 20, 2002 New York City) also known as Barbara Berger was an American actor.
She started her career in the entertainment industry as a radio actor in the 1940s, with her first role being on the show "The Right to Happiness". Berjer later transitioned to television and appeared in various soap operas throughout her career, including "The Secret Storm" and "The Doctors". One of her most notable roles was that of Bridget Connell on "The Guiding Light", which she played for over a decade. Berjer was also active on stage, performing on Broadway in productions such as "Saratoga" and "The American Clock". She was married to actor William Prince for over 50 years until his death in 1996.
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Mary Stuart
Mary Stuart (July 4, 1926 Miami-February 28, 2002 New York City) also known as Mary Stuart Houchins was an American actor and singer-songwriter. She had two children, Cynthia Krolik and Jeffrey Krolik.
Stuart began her acting career in the early 1950s, appearing in various television shows and films. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Joanne Gardner in the soap opera "Search for Tomorrow," which she played from 1951 to 1958. Stuart later reprised her role as Joanne Gardner in the soap opera "As the World Turns."
In addition to her acting career, Stuart was also a talented singer-songwriter. She recorded several singles and albums, including "The Voice of My Love" and "Let's Fly Away."
Stuart's career continued into the 1990s, when she made guest appearances on various TV shows and films. She passed away in 2002 at the age of 75.
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Teresa Graves
Teresa Graves (January 10, 1948 Houston-October 10, 2002 Hyde Park) was an American singer and actor.
Graves began her career in the entertainment industry as a singer in the late 1960s. She was discovered by the comedian Flip Wilson, who invited her to join his variety show as a regular performer. Graves's success on the show led to her own self-titled spinoff sitcom, "Get Christie Love!", which premiered in 1974. The show, in which Graves played an undercover detective, was groundbreaking in its representation of a Black woman as the lead character on a television series.
After "Get Christie Love!" ended in 1975, Graves continued to act in films and television. She had a recurring role on the popular show "Laugh-In" and appeared in films such as "Vampira" and "The Evictors." In the 1980s, Graves transitioned from acting to focus on her music career, releasing several gospel albums.
Graves's life was tragically cut short in 2002, when she died in a house fire at the age of 54. Her legacy as a pioneering Black female actor and singer continues to inspire and influence generations of performers.
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Dorothy Love Coates
Dorothy Love Coates (January 30, 1928 Birmingham-April 9, 2002 Birmingham) otherwise known as Coates, Dorothy Love or Dorothy McGriff was an American singer, actor and songwriter.
She was a prominent figure in the gospel music scene from the 1940s to the 1960s. Coates began her career with The Original Gospel Harmonettes in the 1940s, where she served as the lead singer and songwriter. She was known for her powerful voice that could leave audiences spellbound.
Coates was instrumental in popularizing gospel music, and her songs were performed by several artists across different genres. Some of her most popular compositions include "99 1/2 Won't Do," "That's Enough," and "Get Away Jordan."
In addition to her music career, Coates also acted in several films and television shows, including "The Blues Brothers" and "The Gospel According to Al Green." She received numerous accolades in her lifetime, including induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 1999.
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Signe Hasso
Signe Hasso (August 15, 1915 Stockholm-June 7, 2002 Los Angeles) also known as Signe Larsson or Signe Eleonora Cecilia Larsson was an American actor, composer and writer. She had one child, Henry Hasso.
Signe Hasso was born in Stockholm, Sweden and began her career as an actor in her home country before moving to Hollywood in the 1940s. She starred in numerous films during the 1940s and 1950s, including "A Double Life" (1947) and "The High Chaparral" (1968).
In addition to her acting career, Hasso was also a composer, writing music for several films and stage productions. She published her memoir, "The Life and Lies of an Icon" in 1985.
Later in life, Hasso worked as a drama teacher and mentor, inspiring many young actors and artists in the Los Angeles area. She passed away in 2002 at the age of 86.
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Doris Wishman
Doris Wishman (June 1, 1912 New York City-August 10, 2002 Coral Gables) a.k.a. Anthony Brooks, Dee Ess, El Ess, Luigi Manicottale, O.O. Miller, Doris Silverman, L. Silverman, Louis Silverman, Melvin Stanley, D. Whitman, Dawn Whitman or Kenyon Wintel was an American screenwriter, film director, film producer, film editor, actor and pornographic film actor.
Doris Wishman was known for her work in the exploitation film genre, producing and directing films such as "Bad Girls Go to Hell" (1965) and "A Night to Dismember" (1983). She often used pseudonyms to obscure her involvement in the adult film industry, where she directed and acted in several films. Wishman's career spanned several decades and she is considered a pioneer in the field of independent filmmaking. She also wrote an autobiography, "Realities of the Biz: From the Trenches of the Independent Film Underground," in which she chronicled her experiences in the film industry. Wishman passed away in 2002 at the age of 90.
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Rosetta LeNoire
Rosetta LeNoire (August 8, 1911 New York City-March 17, 2002 Teaneck) otherwise known as Rosetta Olive Burton, Rosetta Le Noire or Rosetta Lenoire was an American actor, talent agent and theatrical producer.
She is particularly well-known for her contributions to African-American theater, having co-founded the Amas Musical Theatre with her husband, who she married in 1946, and Albert Selden in 1968. Amas Musical Theatre was an organization dedicated to promoting diversity in theater and fostering new talent.
LeNoire's career in entertainment spanned over five decades, from the 1930s to the 1990s, during which time she appeared in numerous television shows, movies, and stage productions. Her most notable roles include her appearances on "The Cosby Show" and "Family Ties". In 1988, she won a Daytime Emmy Award for her guest-starring role on "A Different World".
In addition to her acting career, LeNoire was also a pioneer in talent representation. She founded the Rosetta LeNoire Talent Agency in 1950, which was one of the earliest agencies to represent African-American talent.
LeNoire was recognized for her outstanding contributions to the arts by several organizations, including being the first African-American woman to receive a Tony Award, which she was awarded in 1983 for her work as a producer on the musical "Ain't Misbehavin'".
Throughout her life and career, LeNoire was passionate about promoting diversity in the arts and ensuring that people of all races and backgrounds had equal opportunities to pursue careers in entertainment.
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LaWanda Page
LaWanda Page (October 19, 1920 Cleveland-September 14, 2002 Hollywood) a.k.a. Alberta Peal, La Wanda Page, Lawanda Page, LaWanda or The Bronze Goddess of Fire was an American comedian, actor, singer, stripper and dancer. She had one child, Clara Estella Roberta Johnson.
LaWanda Page began her career as a comedian in the 1950s, performing in nightclubs and theaters. She was known for her sharp wit and ability to shock audiences with her profanity-laced jokes. In the late 1960s, she became a regular on the television show "Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In."
Page is perhaps best known for her role as Aunt Esther in the television series "Sanford and Son." She appeared in over 70 episodes of the show and won a TV Land Award for the role in 2005. She also appeared in several films, including "Zapped!" and "Brewster's Millions."
In addition to her work in entertainment, Page was also a devoted practitioner of the Jehovah's Witnesses faith. She often incorporated her religious beliefs into her comedy routines and was known for her outspokenness on religious topics.
Page passed away in 2002 at the age of 81 due to complications from diabetes. She is remembered as a trailblazer for black female comedians and for her unforgettable portrayal of Aunt Esther.
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Susie Garrett
Susie Garrett (December 29, 1929 Detroit-May 24, 2002 Southfield) was an American actor and singer.
She began her career as a dancer, appearing in various Broadway shows such as "Call Me Madam" and "Flower Drum Song". In 1972, she landed a regular role on the children's television show "ZOOM" as "Nancy" and later worked as a voice actor on "Sesame Street". Garrett also appeared in several television shows and films, including "The Facts of Life" and "E/R". She was known for her warm and maternal on-screen persona and was regarded as a pioneering figure in children's television. Outside of her acting career, Garrett was also an accomplished jazz singer, performing in clubs and theaters throughout the United States. She passed away in 2002 at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Adele Jergens
Adele Jergens (November 26, 1917 Brooklyn-November 22, 2002 Camarillo) also known as Adele Jurgens or Adele Louisa Jurgens was an American actor, model and dancer. She had one child, Tracy Langan.
Jergens began her career as a model and later transitioned into acting. She appeared in numerous films, including "The Dark Past" (1948), "Lady in the Lake" (1947), and "Girls in Prison" (1956). In addition to her film work, Jergens also acted in several television programs such as "The Lone Ranger" (1949), "The Abbott and Costello Show" (1952), and "77 Sunset Strip" (1958).
Jergens was also known for her singing and dancing abilities. She frequently performed in nightclubs and cabarets throughout the 1940s and 1950s, and was often featured in promotional materials as a "cheesecake" model.
Throughout her career, Jergens remained active in charitable causes and was involved in organizations such as the American Cancer Society and the United Service Organizations (USO).
Jergens passed away in 2002 at the age of 84.
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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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Billie Bird
Billie Bird (February 28, 1908 Pocatello-November 27, 2002 Granada Hills) also known as Billie Bird Sellen or Berniece Bird was an American comedian, actor and vaudeville performer.
She began her entertainment career as a dancer in vaudeville before transitioning to acting in films and television. Bird appeared in over 80 films throughout her career, including "Home Alone," "Sixteen Candles," and "The Odd Couple." She also had numerous guest roles on popular television shows such as "The Golden Girls," "The Munsters," and "Bewitched." In 1986, she received an Emmy nomination for her guest appearance on "Night Court." Bird continued to act until her death at the age of 94. She was known for her comedic timing and ability to steal scenes with her talent for physical comedy.
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Mary Brian
Mary Brian (February 17, 1906 Corsicana-December 30, 2002 Del Mar) also known as Louise Byrdie Dantzler or The Sweetest Girl in Pictures was an American actor.
Mary Brian began her acting career during the silent film era in Hollywood, where she starred in films such as "Peter Pan" (1924) and "The Sea Hawk" (1924). She successfully transitioned to talkies, often playing the love interest in romantic comedies such as "The Front Page" (1931) and "The Virginian" (1929).
Aside from her work in films, Mary Brian was also a talented writer and published a novel called "A Manhattan Cinderella" in 1972. In addition, she was active in philanthropic activities and was a supporter of the San Diego Symphony and the San Diego Zoo.
Mary Brian was inducted into the Texas Film Hall of Fame in 2002, just a few months before her passing. She was remembered as a talented and shining star in the Golden Age of Hollywood.
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Peg Phillips
Peg Phillips (September 20, 1918 Everett-November 7, 2002 Seattle) a.k.a. Margaret Phillips, Margaret Linton or Margaret Peg Phillips was an American actor and accountant. She had four children, Elizabeth Linton, Kathy Linton, Virginia Linton and Arthur Linton.
Phillips is best known for her role as Ruth-Anne Miller on the popular television series "Northern Exposure" which ran from 1990 to 1995. Prior to her acting career, Phillips worked as an accountant for many years. She also had a passion for theater and eventually began performing in local productions. Her first on-screen role was in the 1980 film "The Stunt Man". In addition to "Northern Exposure", she appeared in several other films and TV shows, including "L.A. Law" and "Father Dowling Mysteries". Despite being a successful actor, Phillips remained down to earth and dedicated much of her time to community service. She was an active member of her local chapter of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and worked with several charities throughout her life.
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Carrie Hamilton
Carrie Hamilton (December 5, 1963 New York City-January 20, 2002 Los Angeles) also known as Carrie Louise Hamilton was an American singer, playwright and actor.
She was the daughter of actress and singer Carol
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Whitney Blake
Whitney Blake (February 20, 1926 Eagle Rock-September 28, 2002 Edgartown) also known as Nancy Ann Whitney was an American actor, television producer, film director and screenwriter. Her children are called Meredith Baxter, Brian Baxter and Richard Baxter.
Whitney Blake began her acting career in the 1940s, and appeared in several films including "The Big Fix" and "My Gun is Quick". Later, she turned her attention to television, creating and producing the popular sitcom "Hazel", which aired from 1961-1966. Blake also directed several episodes of the show, as well as episodes of other popular series such as "The Partridge Family" and "Laverne & Shirley". In addition to her work in television, Blake wrote several feature films including "The Trouble with Girls" and "Some Kind of a Nut". She passed away in 2002 at the age of 76.
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Irish McCalla
Irish McCalla (December 25, 1928 Pawnee City-February 1, 2002 Tucson) also known as Nellie Elizabeth McCalla, Irish Elizabeth McCalla or Nellie Elizabeth "Irish" McCalla was an American actor, pin-up girl, model, artist, painter and visual artist. Her children are called Kim McIntyre and Sean McIntyre.
Irish McCalla is best known for her role as the jungle queen Sheena in the 1950s television series "Sheena, Queen of the Jungle". Before becoming an actress, McCalla worked as a model and pin-up girl, and was featured in popular men's magazines such as Playboy and Esquire. She also pursued a career as an artist and painter, and her works were exhibited in galleries throughout the United States. Despite her success, McCalla stayed out of the public eye for much of her later years and passed away in 2002 at the age of 73.
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Ellen Demming
Ellen Demming (November 27, 2014 United States of America-November 27, 2014) was an American actor.
Ellen Demming may be best known for her brief but memorable role in the iconic movie "Gone with the Wind" (1939), where she played the part of Mrs. Merriwether. Aside from her Hollywood career, she also worked in radio and television, appearing in the hit TV show "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet." Prior to her acting career, Demming worked as a newspaper reporter and a schoolteacher. She passed away on her 80th birthday in 1994.
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Peaches Jackson
Peaches Jackson (October 9, 1913 Buffalo-February 23, 2002 Honolulu) also known as Charlotte Jackson or Peaches Jackson Guererro was an American actor.
She began her career in the 1930s as a chorus girl and appeared in a number of Broadway productions. In the 1940s, she made her way to Hollywood and appeared in several films, including "Christmas Holiday" and "The Big Street". However, it was her role in the 1947 film "Crossfire" that earned her critical acclaim, with some critics calling it her best performance.
In addition to her work in film, Jackson also had a successful career on television. She was a regular on the TV series "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet" and appeared in several other popular shows, including "Perry Mason", "The Twilight Zone", and "The Love Boat".
Throughout her career, Jackson faced discrimination as a black woman in the entertainment industry. She was often limited to stereotypical roles, but worked hard to break down barriers for future generations of black actors. She continued to work in show business until the end of her life, passing away at the age of 88.
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Peggy Moran
Peggy Moran (October 23, 1918 Clinton-October 24, 2002 Camarillo) also known as Mary Jeanette Moran or Peggy was an American actor. Her children are called Nicolas Koster and Peter Koster.
Peggy Moran began her acting career in the 1930s, starring in various Hollywood films such as "The Devil's Playground" (1937), "In Old Chicago" (1938) and "Rio" (1939). She was best known for her role in the horror films "The Mummy's Hand" (1940) and "The Mummy's Tomb" (1942).
After her acting career, Peggy Moran became a successful real estate agent in Southern California. She was also involved in various philanthropic organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the Assistance League of Southern California.
In addition to her two sons, Peggy Moran is survived by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
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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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Meg Wyllie
Meg Wyllie (February 15, 1917 Honolulu-January 1, 2002 Glendale) also known as Margaret Gillespie Wyllie, Margaret Gillespie "Meg" Wyllie or Meg Wylie was an American actor.
She began her career on Broadway in the 1940s, but ultimately transitioned to film and television. Wyllie appeared in over 100 TV shows and films throughout her career, including notable roles in the TV series "Kojak" and "The Twilight Zone" and the film "The Killer Shrews." She also provided the voice for the character of Mother Brain in the animated TV series "Captain N: The Game Master." In addition to acting, Wyllie was also an accomplished painter and sculptor. She passed away in 2002 at the age of 84.
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Rainbeaux Smith
Rainbeaux Smith (June 6, 1955 Los Angeles-October 25, 2002 Los Angeles) also known as Cheryl Lynn Smith, Cheryl Rainbeaux, Cheryl Smith, Cheryl RX Smith, Cheryl Rainbeaux Smith or Cheryl "Rainbeaux" Smith was an American actor. She had one child, Justin Smith.
Rainbeaux Smith started her career in the entertainment industry as a child model and later moved on to acting with her first major role in the 1970 film "The Seventh Seal." She went on to appear in several B-movies, including "Laserblast," "Caged Heat," and "Linda Lovelace for President." In addition to acting, Smith was also a drummer and played in the punk rock band The Runaways for a short time in the mid-1970s. She continued to act throughout the 1980s, appearing in films like "Angel III: The Final Chapter" and "Evil Spawn." Unfortunately, Smith passed away in 2002 at the age of 47 due to complications from liver cancer.
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Dorothy Spencer
Dorothy Spencer (February 3, 1909 Covington-May 23, 2002 Encinitas) otherwise known as Dorothy Spencer McHugh or Dorothy M. Spencer was an American film editor and actor.
She began her career as a film editor in the late 1930s and went on to work on over 60 films, becoming one of the most respected editors in the industry. Some of her notable editing credits include "My Man Godfrey" (1936), "Bringing Up Baby" (1938), and "Stagecoach" (1939). In addition to her work as an editor, Spencer also had a brief career as an actor, appearing in small roles in several films in the 1930s. She was a member of the American Cinema Editors and was inducted into the organization's Hall of Fame in 1988. Spencer passed away in 2002 at the age of 93 in Encinitas, California.
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Lucille Carroll
Lucille Carroll (June 10, 1906-October 23, 2002) also known as Lucille Ryman Carroll, Garnet Lucille Ryman Carroll, Jane Starr or Lucille Ryman was an American actor and film producer.
Carroll was born in San Antonio, Texas, and began her career in Hollywood in the 1920s as an actor. She starred in several films, including "The Haunted House" and "The Phantom of the Opera" in 1925. In 1935, Carroll transitioned into producing films, co-founding Ryman-Carroll Productions with her husband, Hugh Ryman. The duo produced several successful films, including "Belle Starr" and "Old Louisiana."
Despite her success, Carroll and Ryman were blacklisted during the Red Scare of the 1950s, and their Hollywood careers suffered greatly. In response, Carroll shifted her focus to theater, producing and directing plays in New York City.
Carroll was a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and was inducted into the Texas Film Hall of Fame in 2002. She passed away later that year at the age of 96.
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Nobu McCarthy
Nobu McCarthy (November 13, 1934 Ottawa-April 6, 2002 Londrina) a.k.a. Nobu Atsumi or Nobu Atsumi McCarthy was an American model, actor and theatre director. She had two children, Marlon McCarthy and Serena McCarthy.
Nobu McCarthy was born to an Irish-American mother and a Japanese father, making her a multiracial talent in the entertainment industry. She began her career as a model and later transitioned into acting, starring in both film and television. Some of her notable performances include her role as Tom Hanks' mother in the film "The Green Mile" and her recurring role on the TV series "The John Larroquette Show."
Aside from her on-screen work, McCarthy was also an accomplished theatre director. She co-founded and served as artistic director of the East West Players, one of the oldest and most influential Asian American theatre companies in the United States.
McCarthy was also a strong advocate for Asian American representation in the media and entertainment industry. She played an instrumental role in the formation of several Asian American theatre and arts organizations, including the Asian American Theatre Company and the Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment.
Despite passing away in 2002, McCarthy's legacy continues to inspire and influence generations of Asian American actors, directors, and artists.
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Catya Sassoon
Catya Sassoon (September 3, 1968 New York City-January 1, 2002 Hollywood) also known as Catya "Cat" Sassoon, Cat Sasoon, Cat Sassoon or Cat was an American model, actor and singer. She had three children, London Meyers, Mycca Meyers and Skye Meyers.
Catya Sassoon is the daughter of the famous hair stylist, Vidal Sassoon, who revolutionized the hair care industry with his innovative haircuts and products. Catya had worked as a model for several prestigious fashion brands including Chanel and Calvin Klein. She also acted in a few movies like "Blood Ties" and "Galaxis". In addition to her modelling and acting career, Catya Sassoon was also a gifted singer and musician. She formed a band called "Kitty in the Tree" and performed in various venues in Hollywood. Sadly, Catya Sassoon died in 2002 at the young age of 33 due to a drug overdose. Her tragic death shocked her fans and family members alike.
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Ruth Kobart
Ruth Kobart (April 24, 1924 Des Moines-December 14, 2002 San Francisco) a.k.a. Ruth Maxine Finkelstein or Ruth Maxine Kahn was an American singer and actor.
Kobart is best known for her work in the theater, particularly in musicals. She appeared in several Broadway productions, including "The Threepenny Opera" and "The Moony Shapiro Songbook." She also played the character Yente in the first national tour of "Fiddler on the Roof." In addition to her work on stage, Kobart appeared in several movies and television shows, including "Soap" and "The Flying Nun." She was admired by many for her powerful voice and comic timing. Kobart died in 2002 at the age of 78.
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Edith Bouvier Beale
Edith Bouvier Beale (November 7, 1917 New York City-January 9, 2002 Bal Harbour) otherwise known as Little Edie or Edith 'Little Edie' Bouvier Beale was an American model, actor and socialite.
She was born into a prominent family, as her aunt was the former First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. In 1975, a documentary titled Grey Gardens was made about Edith and her mother, who were living in squalor in their East Hampton mansion surrounded by cats and raccoons. The film gained a cult following and brought attention to the eccentric lifestyle of the reclusive mother-daughter duo. Later in life, Edith became a fashion icon and a source of inspiration for designers, such as Marc Jacobs, who created a fashion line inspired by her style. She passed away in 2002 at the age of 84.
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Nancy Addison
Nancy Addison (March 21, 1946 New York City-June 18, 2002 New York City) also known as Nancy Addison Altman or Nancy Addison-Altman was an American actor.
She began her acting career in theater productions and made her Broadway debut in the play "Sticks and Bones" in 1971. She also appeared in numerous television shows and movies throughout her career, including "Law & Order," "The Practice," "Law & Order: Criminal Intent," and "The Hoax." In addition to acting, Addison was also known for her work as a director and acting teacher. She served as the artistic director of the HB Studio in New York City and taught at numerous acting schools and programs. She was a respected member of the New York City theater community and is remembered for her contributions to the industry.
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Peggy Taylor
Peggy Taylor (October 12, 1927 United States of America-February 9, 2002) also known as Taylor, Peggy was an American singer and actor.
She started her entertainment career as a member of the singing trio "The Taylor Sisters" alongside her siblings in the 1940s. They became popular performers in the United States and performed with various big band orchestras. Peggy went on to pursue a solo career in the 1950s, releasing several popular jazz albums, including her most famous work, "Peggy Taylor Sings the Blues." She also appeared in several Hollywood films, including "The Girl Can't Help It" and "Rock Around the Clock." Peggy continued to perform and record throughout her later years and remained an influential figure in the jazz and swing communities.
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Judith Wood
Judith Wood (August 1, 1906 New York City-April 6, 2002 Los Angeles) also known as Helen Johnson was an American actor.
She appeared in over fifty films throughout her career which spanned from the 1920s to the 1950s. Wood got her start in theater before transitioning to the silver screen and also starred in radio shows during the 1940s. Despite her prolific career, Wood is perhaps best known for her role in the 1932 film "Freaks" directed by Tod Browning which gained cult status in later years. She retired from acting in the early 1950s and lived the rest of her life in Los Angeles until her passing at the age of 95.
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Lucille Lund
Lucille Lund (June 3, 1913 Buckley-February 15, 2002 Rolling Hills) also known as 1934 Wampus Baby Star was an American actor.
She started her career in Hollywood in the 1920s as a child actor and appeared in over 75 films throughout her career. After appearing in small roles, Lund rose to fame as the Wampus Baby Star in the movie "College Rhythm" in 1934. She continued to act in films such as "The Crime of Dr. Crespi" (1935) and "The Delightful Rogue" (1929) until she retired from acting in 1946. In addition to her acting career, Lund was also a talented painter and sculptor. She passed away in Rolling Hills, California in 2002 at the age of 88.
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Joan Barclay
Joan Barclay (August 31, 1914 Minneapolis-November 22, 2002 Palm Desert) also known as Geraine Greer, Mary Elizabeth Greear, Geraine Grear, Mary Douglas or Geraine Greear was an American actor. She had two children, Lloyd Hillman and Donna Hillman-Walsh.
Joan Barclay began her acting career in the mid-1930s and appeared in over 70 films throughout her career. She started in small, often uncredited roles, but eventually transitioned to more prominent roles in films such as "The Purple Monster Strikes" and "Pepper". She was also known for her work in television, including appearances on "The Lone Ranger" and "The Cisco Kid". In addition to acting, Barclay was a skilled equestrian and often performed her own stunts on horseback. She retired from acting in the 1950s and later became a real estate agent in Palm Desert, California.
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Evelyn Scott
Evelyn Scott (April 20, 1915 Brockton-January 31, 2002 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
Evelyn Scott made her acting debut playing small roles in films in the early 1940s before landing her breakout role in the film "The Seventh Victim" (1943). She went on to star in several other notable films, including "The Strange Woman" (1946) and "The Spiral Staircase" (1946). In addition to her film career, Scott also worked in the theater and on television, making appearances in popular shows such as "Perry Mason" and "The Twilight Zone". Despite her success in the industry, Scott's career was plagued with personal struggles, including battles with alcoholism and depression. She retired from acting in the 1960s and lived out the rest of her life in seclusion before passing away in 2002 at the age of 86.
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Hazel Brooks
Hazel Brooks (September 8, 1924 Cape Town-September 18, 2002 Bel-Air) a.k.a. Hazel Brooks Ross or Hazel Brooks Gibbons was an American actor and photographer.
Brooks began her career as a model and dancer, appearing in several Broadway productions in the 1940s. She gained fame for her role in the 1946 film "Body and Soul," which led to a contract with Columbia Pictures. She appeared in several other films, including "Arch of Triumph" and "Sleep, My Love."
In the 1950s, Brooks retired from acting and turned her focus to photography. She became a well-known celebrity photographer and her work was published in magazines such as Life and Collier's. Brooks' photographs of Hollywood stars and other famous figures are now part of several prestigious collections, including the Smithsonian Institution and the Getty Museum.
Brooks was married three times, including to actor and director Stanley Donen. She passed away in 2002 at the age of 78.
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Vinnette Justine Carroll
Vinnette Justine Carroll (March 11, 1922 New York City-November 5, 2002 Lauderhill) also known as Vinnette Carroll or Vinette Carroll was an American actor, playwright, theatre director, clinical psychologist and teacher.
Carroll is best known for being the first African American woman to direct a Broadway production – her own work entitled "Don't Bother Me, I Can't Cope". She founded the Urban Arts Corps and the Vinnette Carroll Repertory Company, organizations that provided opportunities for African American actors and playwrights. She received numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including the National Medal of Arts in 1990. In addition to her work in the theater, Carroll was also a clinical psychologist and a teacher, advocating for the importance of the arts in education. She passed away in 2002 at the age of 80.
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Dolores Gray
Dolores Gray (June 7, 1924 Chicago-June 26, 2002 Manhattan) also known as Dolores Stein was an American singer, actor and cabaret artist.
She began her career as a singer in nightclubs and on radio before making her Broadway debut in the musical "Seven Lively Arts" in 1944. She went on to star in several other Broadway productions, including "Carnival in Flanders" and "Destry Rides Again".
Gray also appeared in films such as "It's Always Fair Weather" and "Designing Woman" alongside stars like Gene Kelly and Lauren Bacall. In addition to her acting and singing career, she was also a popular television personality, hosting her own television show in the 1950s, "The Dolores Gray Show".
She received several accolades for her performances, including a Tony Award nomination for her leading role in the musical "Destry Rides Again" and a Theatre World Award for "Carnival in Flanders".
Gray continued to perform on stage and in concerts throughout her career, touring in productions of "Anything Goes" and "The Sound of Music", among others. She also recorded several albums, including "West Side Story and Other Show Tunes" and "My Heart Belongs to You".
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Cyrinda Foxe
Cyrinda Foxe (February 22, 1952 Santa Monica-September 7, 2002 New York City) also known as Cyrinda Foxe-Tyler, Kathleen Hetzekian or Katheleen Victoria Hetzekian was an American actor and model. Her child is called Mia Tyler.
Cyrinda Foxe was best known for her work as a beauty icon and for her relationships with famous musicians. She rose to fame in the 1970s as a popular model, appearing in widely recognized magazines and billboards. She dabbled in acting as well, making small appearances in films like "Bad" and "Foxy Lady".
In addition to her career, Cyrinda was known for her high-profile relationships with famous musicians, in particular, her marriages to Steven Tyler of Aerosmith and David Johansen of the New York Dolls. In her later years, she battled cancer before her death in 2002 at the age of 50.
Cyrinda's legacy as a cultural icon continues to inspire fashion and music enthusiasts to this day. Her daughter Mia Tyler has followed in her footsteps, becoming a well-known model and actress in her own right.
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Barbara Randolph
Barbara Randolph (May 5, 1942 Detroit-July 15, 2002 South Africa) also known as Barbara Ann Sanders was an American actor, singer and businessperson.
She began her career as a child performer and became a regular on the show "Sky King" in the 1950s. Later, Randolph transitioned to a career in music and signed with Motown Records, recording the hit song "Can I Get a Witness" in 1963.
In the late 1960s, Randolph returned to acting, appearing in films and television shows including "Bootsy," "The Great White Hope," and "Sanford and Son."
She later moved to South Africa and became a successful businesswoman, opening a clothing store and a hair salon. She also founded the Barbara Randolph Foundation, which helps underprivileged children in South Africa.
Randolph died in Durban, South Africa at the age of 60 after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage.
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Betty Jane Baker
Betty Jane Baker (May 6, 1927 Birmingham-April 2, 2002 Rancho Mirage) also known as Betty Jane Phillips, Betty Jane Rase, Betty Jane Kessel, Betty Jane Rooney, Betty Jane, B.J. Baker or B. J. Baker was an American singer, actor and songwriter. She had two children, Mickey Rooney, Jr. and Tim Rooney.
Betty Jane Baker began her career as a singer and performed with some famous bands of her time like Spike Jones and His City Slickers and Xavier Cugat. She also appeared in several movies like "The Fabulous Dorseys" and "Three Little Words" as an actor. Baker went on to become a songwriter and wrote several songs for different artists in the 1950s and 60s. One of her most famous songs is "Love You Most of All" which was recorded by Sam Cooke. Betty Jane Baker was married five times and was known for her beauty and vivacious spirit. In her later years, she suffered from Alzheimer's disease and died in Rancho Mirage, California at the age of 74.
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Susan Fleming
Susan Fleming (February 19, 1908 New York City-December 22, 2002 Rancho Mirage) also known as Susan Fleming Marx, Susan F. Marx or Girl with the Million Dollar Legs was an American actor. Her children are called Bill Marx, Jimmy Marx, Alexander Marx and Minnie Marx Eagle.
Susan Fleming began her acting career in the 1930s, appearing in several films including "Busy Bodies" and "Hats Off." She is perhaps best known for her role in the Marx Brothers film "Duck Soup" (1933), where she played the role of Mrs. Teasdale's secretary. Later in life, she became a philanthropist and was known for her work with the Desert Samaritans for the Elderly organization. She was also an accomplished painter and sculptor. In addition to her children, she is survived by six grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.
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Fely Franquelli
Fely Franquelli (November 27, 2014 Manila-November 27, 2014 United States of America) a.k.a. Fely Diane Hutter was an American actor, dancer and choreographer.
Born in Manila, Philippines in 1916, Franquelli's family immigrated to the United States when she was still a young child. She began her career as a dancer in vaudeville and later transitioned to acting in films and television in the 1940s. Franquelli was known for her work in musicals, often showcasing her skills as a dancer and choreographer.
She appeared in numerous films throughout her career, including "Broadway Rhythm" (1944), "Meet Me in St. Louis" (1944), and "The Harvey Girls" (1946). Franquelli also had a recurring role on the television series "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet" in the 1950s.
In addition to her career in entertainment, Franquelli was also a devoted activist for women's rights and equal representation in the entertainment industry. She passed away on her birthday in 2014 at the age of 98.
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Bibi Osterwald
Bibi Osterwald (February 3, 1918 New Brunswick-January 2, 2002 Burbank) also known as Margaret Virginia Osterwald was an American actor and voice actor. She had one child, Christopher Arndt.
Bibi Osterwald began her acting career in the 1950s on Broadway, appearing in shows such as "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and "The Music Man." She also had a recurring role on the TV series "The Doctors" in the 1960s. In the 1970s, she continued to work in theater and appeared in films such as "The Main Event" and "The Secret War of Jackie's Girls." Osterwald was also a prolific voice actor, lending her voice to the animated series "The Smurfs" and "Dungeons & Dragons." She continued to act until the early 2000s, with her last on-screen appearance being in the film "Something to Sing About" in 2000.
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