Famous movie actresses born in the year 1908
Here are 50 famous actresses from the world were born in 1908:
Libertad Lamarque
Libertad Lamarque (November 24, 1908 Rosario-December 12, 2000 Mexico City) also known as Libertad Lamarque Bouza, Lamarque, Libertad, The Sweetheart of the Americas, La Novia de América, The Queen of Melodramas or Lamarque, Libetad was an Argentine actor and singer. She had one child, Mirtha Romero.
Lamarque had an extensive career that spanned over seven decades, appearing in over 60 films and numerous television programs. She began her career in her native Argentina in the 1920s, where she quickly gained popularity as a singer and actress. In 1939, she starred in the film "Gran Casino," which became one of the biggest hits in the history of Mexican cinema. She eventually moved to Mexico and became a Mexican citizen, where she continued her successful career.
Aside from her successful acting career, Lamarque was also known for her beautiful singing voice. She recorded over 800 songs throughout her career, many of which became hits in Latin America. She was known for singing tango and bolero songs, and her music was loved by audiences all over the world.
Lamarque was also an advocate for political causes, and supported the Peronist movement in Argentina. She was exiled from her home country in the 1950s due to her political beliefs, but eventually returned to Argentina in the 1980s. She was honored numerous times throughout her career, including receiving the Konex Award in Argentina for her role in popular culture.
Lamarque passed away in Mexico City on December 12, 2000, at the age of 92. She was remembered as a beloved icon of Latin American cinema and music, who had left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
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Sally O'Neil
Sally O'Neil (October 23, 1908 Bayonne-June 18, 1968 Galesburg) otherwise known as Virginia Louise Concepta Noonan, Sally O'Neill, Sue O'Neill, Virginia Louise Noonan, Chotsie Noonan, Sue 'Bugs' O'Neill, Sue O'Neil or Sally O'Neil Keenan was an American actor.
Sally O'Neil began her career as a dancer in vaudeville before transitioning to acting. She appeared in over 40 films between 1927 and 1937, including "The Voice of the City," "Mighty Joe Young," and "The Girl from Missouri." Known for her beauty and athleticism, she often played spunky and independent young women in her roles. After struggling to find work in Hollywood, she retired from acting and moved to Galesburg, Illinois with her husband. Later in life, she suffered from financial difficulties and health problems. She passed away in 1968 at the age of 59.
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Ethel Merman
Ethel Merman (January 16, 1908 Astoria-February 15, 1984 Manhattan) a.k.a. Ethel Agnes Zimmermann was an American singer, actor and voice actor. Her children are called Robert Levitt Jr. and Ethel Levitt.
Merman is known for her powerful soprano voice and her performances in Broadway musicals such as "Anything Goes," "Annie Get Your Gun," and "Gypsy." She began her career in vaudeville and quickly rose to stardom in the 1930s. Merman also appeared in several films, including "Alexander's Ragtime Band" and "There's No Business Like Show Business." She later ventured into television, hosting her own variety show, "The Ethel Merman Show," in the 1950s. Throughout her career, Merman earned many accolades including a Tony Award, a Grammy Award, and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. She is considered one of the greatest musical performers of all time.
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Frances Day
Frances Day (December 16, 1908 East Orange-April 29, 1984 Windsor) a.k.a. Frances Victoria Schenck, Samta Young Johnson, Frankie, Frances Victoria Schenk or Day, Frances was an American singer and actor.
She began her career as a child performer in vaudeville and later became a popular cabaret singer in the 1930s. She also appeared in several films, including "The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex" (1939) and "It's a Grand Old World" (1951).
Day was known for her sultry voice and glamorous image, and was often compared to other popular female singers of her time such as Judy Garland and Lena Horne. She was also a fashion icon, often wearing glamorous and daring outfits on stage and in public.
In addition to her career in entertainment, Day was a philanthropist and supported various charitable causes throughout her life. She was also an advocate for the arts and served as a board member for the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP).
Despite her success, Day struggled with alcoholism and died of cirrhosis of the liver at the age of 75. She was posthumously inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 1996.
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Elsa Benham
Elsa Benham (November 20, 1908 St. Louis-April 20, 1995 Irving) was an American actor.
She appeared in over 30 films and numerous television shows throughout her career. Elsa began her acting career in the 1930s, making her debut in the film "Street of Women" (1932). She is best known for her roles in films such as "The White Parade" (1934), "The Bohemian Girl" (1936), and "Stowaway" (1936). Elsa also acted on Broadway, making her debut in the play "Foxy" (1964). In addition to her work in front of the camera, Elsa was also a noted theater director and drama teacher. She passed away in 1995 at the age of 86.
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Betty Boyd
Betty Boyd (May 11, 1908 Kansas City-September 16, 1971 Los Angeles) also known as Elizabeth "Betty" Boyd or Elizabeth Boyd Smith was an American actor.
She began her acting career in the 1920s and appeared in over thirty films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, often playing supporting roles. Her notable film roles include "The Big Broadcast" (1932), "A Bedtime Story" (1933), "The Cat and the Canary" (1939), and "The Lady Is Willing" (1942). She also made appearances on television in the 1950s, including guest roles on "The Honeymooners" and "The Jack Benny Show." Boyd retired from acting in the early 1960s and passed away in 1971 at the age of 63.
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Shirley Palmer
Shirley Palmer (December 25, 1908 Chicago-March 29, 2000 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
She began her acting career on stage in the 1920s, appearing in several Broadway productions before transitioning to film in the 1930s. Palmer acted in over 50 films throughout her career, playing notable supporting roles in movies such as "The Awful Truth" (1937) and "The Fallen Sparrow" (1943). She also made numerous television appearances in the 1950s and 1960s, including guest spots on popular shows like "Perry Mason" and "The Twilight Zone." In addition to her acting work, Palmer was an accomplished dancer and choreographer who often incorporated her skills into her stage and screen performances. She continued to work in the entertainment industry well into her 80s, passing away in 2000 at the age of 91.
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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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Patsy Montana
Patsy Montana (October 30, 1908 Hot Springs-May 3, 1996 San Jacinto) also known as Montana, Patsy was an American singer and actor.
She was born Ruby Rose Blevins in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Montana began her career as a radio performer and became the first female country performer to have a million-selling single with her song "I Want to Be a Cowboy's Sweetheart" in 1935. She continued to release successful songs throughout the 1930s and 1940s and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1996, shortly before her death. Montana also acted in several films, including "Colorado Sunset" and "The Singing Hill".
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Bette Davis
Bette Davis (April 5, 1908 Lowell-October 6, 1989 Neuilly-sur-Seine) otherwise known as Ruth Elizabeth Davis, The First Lady of Film, The Fifth Warner Brother, Miss Bette Davis, Betty, Betty Davis, Ruth Elizabeth "Bette" Davis, The First Lady of the American Screen, Ruth Davis or Fred was an American actor. She had three children, B. D. Hyman, Michael Merrill and Margot Merrill.
Bette Davis was known for her unique style and her willingness to take on complex and challenging roles. She began her career in Hollywood in the early 1930s and quickly became one of the most respected actors of her time. Davis was nominated for 10 Academy Awards and won two. Some of her most famous films include "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?", "All About Eve", and "Now, Voyager". She was also a trailblazer for women in Hollywood, fighting for fair wages and creative control over her own work. Additionally, Davis was a strong advocate for the arts and served on the board of the American National Theater and Academy. She passed away in 1989 at the age of 81, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most iconic and inspiring stars.
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Rina Morelli
Rina Morelli (December 6, 1908 Naples-July 17, 1976 Rome) also known as Elvira Morelli was an Italian actor and voice actor.
She began her acting career in theatre, and later on starred in dozens of films throughout her career in the Italian cinema industry. She is best known for her roles in critically acclaimed Italian films including, "Umberto D." (1952) directed by Vittorio De Sica, and "Rocco and His Brothers" (1960) directed by Luchino Visconti. Morelli was admired for her ability to convey strong emotions through her performances, and many consider her as one of the greatest Italian actresses of all time. She was married to the actor and director Paolo Stoppa for over 40 years, and the two of them appeared in many films and stage productions together. In addition to acting, Morelli was also an accomplished voice actress and dubbed many foreign films into Italian.
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Lupe Vélez
Lupe Vélez (July 18, 1908 San Luis Potosí-December 13, 1944 Glendale) also known as Lupe Velez, Maria Guadaloupe Velez de Villalobos, The Hot Pepper, The Mexican Spitfire, María Guadalupe Villalobos Vélez, Mexican Spitfire or María Guadalupe Vélez de Villalobos was a Mexican actor.
Vélez began her career in Mexico before moving to Hollywood in the 1920s to pursue opportunities in the American film industry. She quickly rose to fame and became known for her fiery and passionate performances, earning the nickname "The Mexican Spitfire." Over the course of her career, Vélez starred in dozens of films and was considered one of the top Latinx actors of her time. Despite her success, she struggled with personal demons and ultimately died by suicide in 1944. Today, Vélez is remembered as a trailblazer for Latinx representation in Hollywood and for her unforgettable performances.
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Sophie Stewart
Sophie Stewart (March 5, 1908 Crieff-June 6, 1977 London) was a British actor.
Sophie Stewart began her theatrical career as a chorus girl in London's West End, eventually becoming a leading lady in both London and on Broadway. She starred in numerous West End productions, including "Charley's Aunt" and "The School for Scandal," and appeared in several films, including "The Stars Look Down" and "The Magic Box." In addition to her work on stage and screen, Stewart was also a talented singer and recorded several albums. She died in London at the age of 69.
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Carole Lombard
Carole Lombard (October 6, 1908 Fort Wayne-January 16, 1942 Potosi Mountain) also known as Jane Alice Peters, Ma, The Hoosier Tornado, The Profane Angel, Queen of Screwball Comedy, Jane Peters, Carol Lombard or Carole Lombard Gable was an American actor.
Lombard began her career in silent films in the 1920s and transitioned to talkies in the 1930s. She was known for her comedic timing and ability to play strong, independent women. Lombard was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in the film "My Man Godfrey" (1936).
Outside of her acting career, Lombard was also known for her marriage to Hollywood legend Clark Gable. The two met on the set of the film "No Man of Her Own" (1932) and married in 1939. Tragically, Lombard died in a plane crash in 1942 while returning from a war bond rally. She was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of her contributions to the war effort.
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Celia Johnson
Celia Johnson (December 18, 1908 Richmond, London-April 25, 1982 Nettlebed) otherwise known as Celia Elizabeth Johnson, Elizabeth Johnson, Dame Celia Johnson, Dame Celia Elizabeth Johnson or Betty was an English actor. She had three children, Lucy Fleming, Nicholas Peter Val Fleming and Kate Fleming.
Johnson began her acting career in 1928 and made her stage debut in 1930. She gained critical acclaim for her performances in classic plays such as "The Importance of Being Earnest" and "Hay Fever". Johnson's breakthrough role came in 1945, when she starred in the romantic drama "Brief Encounter", directed by David Lean. Her performance as a housewife who falls in love with a stranger garnered her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
Aside from her career in film and theatre, Johnson was also involved in charitable and humanitarian work. She was a supporter of various causes such as Save the Children Fund and Christian Aid. In 1957, she was appointed as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for her services to drama.
Johnson continued to act in films throughout the 1950s and 1960s, including "The Captain's Paradise" and "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie". She also appeared on television, including in the series "A Family at War". Her last film role was in "The Birthday Party" in 1968. Johnson passed away in 1982 at the age of 73.
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Mae Questel
Mae Questel (September 13, 1908 The Bronx-January 4, 1998 New York City) otherwise known as Mae Kwestel, mae_questel, Mae Questelle, Mae Questal or Questel, Mae was an American actor, voice actor and singer. She had two children, Richard Balkin and Robert Balkin.
Questel gained popularity for her voice work, particularly as the voices of Betty Boop and Olive Oyl in various animated productions. She initially gained attention for her Betty Boop impression in a nightclub act, which led her to be hired by Fleischer Studios, where she provided the voice for Betty Boop from 1931 to 1939. She later reprised her role as Betty Boop in various media, including commercials and video games. Questel also provided the voice for Olive Oyl in various Popeye cartoons from 1933 to 1938.
Aside from her voice work, Questel also appeared in several films and television shows, most notably in the 1978 film "New York, New York" directed by Martin Scorsese. In addition, she was a popular radio performer and sang on several recordings throughout her career. Questel continued to work into her 80s and was honored with a lifetime achievement award by the American Guild of Variety Artists in 1990.
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Jill Esmond
Jill Esmond (January 26, 1908 London-July 28, 1990 Wandsworth) also known as Jill Esmond Moore or Jill Esmond-Moore was an English actor. She had one child, Tarquin Olivier.
Esmond began her acting career on stage before transitioning to film. She appeared in several notable films in the 1930s, including "The Skin Game" (1931) and "Pygmalion" (1938), which also starred her ex-husband, Laurence Olivier. Esmond and Olivier were married from 1930 to 1940, and their son Tarquin also went on to become an actor. Despite her early success in acting, Esmond eventually chose to focus on raising her son and taking care of her aging mother. She later worked as a drama teacher and continued to be involved in the theater community until her death in 1990.
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Adele Dixon
Adele Dixon (June 3, 1908 London-April 11, 1992 Manchester) was an English actor.
She began her career in the 1920s as a dancer and went on to become a prolific actress on stage and screen. Dixon appeared in numerous West End productions and toured throughout the United Kingdom and abroad. She also appeared in several films, including "The Next of Kin" (1942) and "Corridor of Mirrors" (1948).
During World War II, Dixon worked as an entertainer for the Allied troops, traveling to North Africa, Italy, and France. She was awarded the MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 1957 for her services to the theater.
Dixon retired from acting in the early 1980s but remained active in the entertainment industry, serving on the board of directors for the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester. She passed away in 1992 at the age of 83.
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Marceline Day
Marceline Day (April 24, 1908 Colorado Springs-February 16, 2000 Cathedral City) also known as Marceline Newlin was an American actor.
She started her career in silent films during the 1920s and appeared in over 60 films throughout her career. Day was best known for her work in the comedy genre and is particularly remembered for her roles in films such as "The Sap" (1929) and "All Quiet on the Western Front" (1930). She transitioned to talkies with ease and continued to work steadily in films until the mid-1930s, when she decided to retire from acting. Following her retirement from the film industry, Day became a successful real estate agent in Southern California. She passed away in 2000 at the age of 91.
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Renee Roberts
Renee Roberts (September 24, 1908-February 1, 1996) was an English actor. She had two children, Roberta Frankau and Rosemary Frankau.
Roberts began her acting career in the early 1930s, appearing in stage productions in London’s West End. She made her screen debut in the 1933 film "The Private Life of Henry VIII", and went on to appear in more than 50 films over the course of her career. Some of her notable films include "The Saint in London" (1939), "The Adventures of Tartu" (1943), and "The Curse of the Werewolf" (1961). Aside from her work in film, Roberts was also a prolific stage actress, appearing in productions of plays by notable playwrights such as George Bernard Shaw and Tennessee Williams. In her later years, Roberts became a beloved character actress, often playing grandmothers or eccentric relatives. She passed away in London in 1996 at the age of 87.
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Naemi Briese
Naemi Briese (March 4, 1908 Stockholm-August 20, 1980 Stockholm) also known as Naemi Viktoria Louise Söderström was a Swedish actor and singer.
She began her career in the 1920s as a dancer and chorus girl in various revues and operettas. She later transitioned into acting and appeared in over 60 films between 1930 and 1977. Briese was known for her versatility and played a wide range of roles, from comedic to dramatic. She was also a talented singer and recorded several popular songs throughout her career. In addition to her work in film and music, Briese also acted in theater productions and on television. She was highly regarded in the Swedish entertainment industry and received numerous awards and honors throughout her career.
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Hjördis Petterson
Hjördis Petterson (October 17, 1908 Visby-May 27, 1988 Stockholm) also known as Hjördis Olga Maria Petterson, Hjördis, Hjordis Petterson, Hjördis Pettersson, Hjördis Olga Maria Pettersson or Hjördis Peterson was a Swedish actor. She had one child, Annika Renström.
Hjördis Petterson began her career in the 1930s and went on to become one of the leading ladies of Swedish cinema during the 1940s and 1950s. She appeared in over 60 films throughout her career, including notable works such as "Only a Mother" (1949) and "Wild Strawberries" (1957), both directed by Ingmar Bergman. In addition to her work on screen, Petterson was also a popular theater actress and appeared in numerous stage productions. She was awarded the prestigious Guldbagge Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1985 for her performance in the film "The Simple-Minded Murderer". Petterson was married to fellow actor Anders Henrikson from 1932 until his death in 1965.
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Kathryn Eames
Kathryn Eames (July 25, 1908-December 12, 2004) was an American actor.
Throughout her career, she appeared in over 50 films and TV shows, most notably in films such as "The Devil's Threesome" (1978), "Satan's Triangle" (1975), and "The Resurrection of Zachary Wheeler" (1971). Eames began her career in the 1930s as a stage actor before transitioning to film in the 1950s. Besides her work in films and TV, Eames was also a theater director and acting coach. She is remembered for her contributions to the entertainment industry and for paving the way for future female actors.
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Phyllis Barry
Phyllis Barry (December 7, 1908 Leeds-July 1, 1954 Los Angeles) also known as Phyllis Du Barry was an English actor.
Barry began her acting career in British films in the 1920s before moving to Hollywood in the 1930s. She appeared in several films during her career, including "The Return of Dr. Fu Manchu" (1930), "Charlie Chan's Chance" (1932), and "The Phantom Broadcast" (1933). Barry's last film credit was in the 1936 movie "White Hunter." After retiring from acting, she worked as a talent scout for RKO Pictures. Barry was married twice, first to actor Robert Sterling and later to playwright and producer George Abbott. She passed away at the age of 45 from a heart attack.
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Dagmar Olsson
Dagmar Olsson (September 27, 1908 Stockholm-December 20, 1980 Stockholm) was a Swedish actor.
She began her acting career in the 1930s and became a popular film actress during the Golden Age of Swedish Cinema. She appeared in many notable films of the era, including "Intermezzo" (1936) and "Only One Night" (1939). Dagmar Olsson was known for her versatile acting skills, portraying both dramatic and comedic roles with equal ability. In addition to her work in film, she also appeared in a number of stage productions during her career. Despite her success, she remained private and rarely spoke to the media. She retired from acting in the 1960s and lived out the remainder of her life in Stockholm, where she passed away at the age of 72.
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Jeanne Herviale
Jeanne Herviale (December 24, 1908 Paris-November 29, 1989 Pradines, Lot) a.k.a. Jane Herviale, Jeanne Hervialle or Jeanne Blanche Charlotte Charrier was a French actor.
She started her career in the early 1930s and appeared in over 50 films throughout her career. Herviale was known for her roles in French films such as "The Strange Monsieur Victor" (1938), "The Big Restaurant" (1966) and "An Elephant Can Be Extremely Deceptive" (1976). She also acted in several theater productions and was a regular performer at the Comédie-Française. In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, Herviale was also involved in political activism and was a member of the French Resistance during World War II. Her contributions to the French film industry were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2017.
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Hertha Thiele
Hertha Thiele (May 8, 1908 Leipzig-August 5, 1984 Berlin) was a German actor.
She started her acting career at the age of 18, when she debuted in a silent film called "The Eighth Commandment" in 1926. Throughout her career, she appeared in more than 30 films, including the Nazi propaganda film "Hitler Youth Quex" in 1933. Despite her involvement in the film, Thiele was not a member of the Nazi party and was known for her left-wing politics. After World War II, she continued to act in East German films, such as the 1953 film "The Axe of Wandsbek," which won the Best Director award at the 1954 Cannes Film Festival. Thiele was also a respected stage actress and worked at the Berliner Ensemble in the 1950s. She retired from acting in the 1960s and spent her later years living in Berlin.
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Fearless Nadia
Fearless Nadia (January 8, 1908 Perth-January 9, 1996 Mumbai) a.k.a. Mary Evans, Mary Evans Wadia, Mary Ann Evans, Nadia or Nadia H. Wadia was an Australian actor, stunt performer and circus performer. Her child is called Robert Jones.
Fearless Nadia gained fame in the Indian film industry during the 1930s and 1940s for her pioneering roles in action and stunt-based films. She was one of the earliest female stars of Indian cinema and is considered a pioneer and an icon in the stunt and action genre. Her most popular films include Hunterwali (1935), Miss Frontier Mail (1936), and Diamond Queen (1940). Despite facing several challenges as a female performer in a male-dominated industry, Fearless Nadia continued to break barriers and inspire future generations of performers. After retiring from films, she lived a quiet life in Mumbai until her death in 1996 at age 88.
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Sadako Sawamura
Sadako Sawamura (November 11, 1908 Asakusa, Tokyo-August 16, 1996) also known as Sawamura Sadako, Teiko Ohashi, Ohashi Teiko or Ohashi Sadako was a Japanese actor and essayist.
She began her career in the film industry in the 1930s, appearing in numerous films such as "Arigato-san" and "Tokyo March." Sawamura was known for her versatility as an actor, playing everything from historical figures to modern-day characters. She was also an accomplished essayist, writing extensively about her experiences in the film industry and Japanese society. In addition to her acting and writing, Sawamura was also a prominent figure in the theater scene, performing in plays such as "Terakoya" and "Chushingura." Despite retiring from acting in the 1970s, she remained active in the Japanese entertainment industry as a guest speaker and commentator. Sawamura was honored with numerous awards throughout her career, including the Order of the Sacred Treasure and the Order of Culture.
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Beryl Measor
Beryl Measor (April 22, 1908 Shanghai-February 8, 1965 London) was a Chinese actor.
Beryl Measor, also known by her Chinese name, Mei Lanfang (梅兰芳), was a highly acclaimed Peking opera performer, known for her exceptional skill in male roles. Born in Shanghai to a British father and a Chinese mother, Measor started training in Peking opera at a young age under the guidance of her mother's uncle, a famous Peking opera master. She made her professional debut at the age of 18 and quickly rose to fame, becoming one of the leading performers of her time. Measor's performances were characterized by her grace, elegance, and mastery of the art of "female impersonation" in male roles, which made her a cultural icon in China. In 1935, Measor toured Europe and North America, performing to sold-out audiences and earning rave reviews from critics. She eventually settled in London and continued to perform and teach Peking opera until her death in 1965. Measor is widely regarded as one of the greatest Peking opera performers of all time, and her legacy continues to inspire generations of Chinese opera enthusiasts.
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Loni Heuser
Loni Heuser (January 22, 1908 Düsseldorf-March 6, 1999 Berlin) also known as Loni Heusser, Apollonia Henriette Heuser, Loni Heuser Mackeben or Heuser, Loni was a German actor.
She began her career in Berlin during the 1920s as a cabaret singer and actress. Heuser became known for her wit, humor and deep, raspy voice which made her very popular in the cabaret scene. She appeared in numerous German films throughout the 1930s and was often cast in comedic roles. In 1933, she left Germany for Switzerland due to the rise of the Nazi party, where she continued to perform in cabarets and theaters.
After World War II, Heuser returned to Germany and continued her career in acting, both on stage and in films. She became a prominent figure in German entertainment industry, performing in theaters and appearing in various TV shows and films. Heuser was known for her versatile acting skills, being able to portray both comedic and dramatic roles with ease. She also appeared in several musical productions, including the German adaptation of "My Fair Lady".
In addition to her work in entertainment, Heuser was also an active social and political commentator. She used her platform to speak out against censorship and the oppression of the arts. She was also known for her support of the LGBTQ+ community, becoming an icon for the community due to her gender non-conforming appearance and her portrayal of lesbian characters in her work.
Loni Heuser passed away in Berlin in 1999 at the age of 91, leaving behind a legacy as one of Germany's most beloved entertainers and influential social activists.
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Renee Gadd
Renee Gadd (June 22, 1908 Bahía Blanca-July 20, 2003 Hove) otherwise known as Rene Gadd or Renée Gadd was a British actor.
She was born to English parents in Argentina and later moved to the United Kingdom where she pursued a career in acting. In the 1930s, she appeared in several films including "The Love Nest" and "The Vicar of Bray". Gadd was also a regular stage performer, starting with the Everyman Theatre in Hampstead, London. Throughout her career, she acted in numerous plays and also worked as a voice actress. In the 1960s she had a recurring role in the British television series "The Avengers". Gadd lived in Hove, Sussex until her death in 2003 at the age of 95.
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Hu Die
Hu Die (March 23, 1908 Shanghai-April 23, 1989 Vancouver) a.k.a. Ruihua Hu, Hu Ruihua, 胡瑞华, 胡蝶, Butterfly Wu, Die Hu or Butterfly Hu was a Chinese actor. She had one child, Hu Yousong.
Hu Die, born Hu Ruihua, was one of the most popular and influential actresses in China during her time. She began her career in Shanghai's booming film industry in the 1920s and quickly rose to fame, starring in over 200 films throughout her career. Some of her most notable roles were in the films "Song at Midnight" and "Romance of the Western Chamber."
Hu Die was known for her beauty, talent, and versatility as an actress. She was the first Chinese actress to appear on Time magazine's cover in 1934, and her popularity extended beyond China to other countries in Asia.
In 1943, Hu Die moved to Hong Kong to escape the war with Japan, but she eventually settled in Vancouver, Canada with her son. She continued to act in films occasionally, but mostly devoted her time to charity work and helping the Chinese community in Vancouver.
Hu Die is remembered as a trailblazing actress and an icon in Chinese cinema. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers.
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Barbara Luddy
Barbara Luddy (May 25, 1908 Great Falls-April 1, 1979 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
She began her career in Hollywood in the 1930s, and went on to appear in over 100 films and television shows over the course of her career. Luddy is perhaps best known for her work as a voice actor, providing the voice of several memorable characters in a number of classic Disney films. She voiced Lady in "Lady and the Tramp", Kanga in "Winnie the Pooh", Merryweather in "Sleeping Beauty", and many others. Luddy was widely respected in the industry for her versatile talent and her ability to bring life to a variety of different characters. She passed away in 1979 at the age of 70, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Hollywood.
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Devika Rani
Devika Rani (March 30, 1908 Visakhapatnam-March 9, 1994 Bangalore) otherwise known as The Dragon Lady, Devika Rani Choudhury, Devika Rani Chaudhuri Roerich or Devika Rani Chaudhuri was an Indian actor.
She was also a producer and is considered to be one of the most prominent figures in the Indian film industry. Devika Rani was born in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, and went on to study in England before making her acting debut in 1926. She made her mark in the Indian film industry through her skillful acting and soon became known as the First Lady of Indian cinema. After starring in several blockbuster hits, Devika Rani went on to found Bombay Talkies along with her husband, Himanshu Rai. As a producer, she contributed immensely to the development of Indian cinema and laid the foundation for modern Indian filmmaking. In recognition of her contribution to Indian cinema, Devika Rani was honoured with the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1958. Throughout her lifetime, she remained a pioneer, trailblazer and an inspiration for generations of aspiring actors.
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Paula Denk
Paula Denk (January 18, 1908 Namibia-January 9, 1978 Munich) was a German actor.
She began her acting career in theater and performed in numerous plays in Germany during the 1920s and 1930s. Denk gained international recognition for her role in the German film "Mädchen in Uniform" (Girls in Uniform) in 1931, which became a landmark in lesbian cinema. She continued to work in films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, often portraying strong and independent women. During World War II, Denk faced criticism for her refusal to join the Nazi party, which led to her being banned in 1943 from performing and acting. After the war, she returned to the stage and screen, and gained particular acclaim for her role in the 1955 film "Königswalzer" (The King's Waltz). Denk was also a committed political activist and campaigned for numerous causes, including women's rights and the recognition of Namibian independence. She passed away in Munich in 1978 at the age of 69.
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Frances Morris
Frances Morris (August 3, 1908 Springfield-December 2, 2003 Santa Clarita) a.k.a. Frances Wright or Francis Morris was an American actor.
Morris began her acting career in the 1930s, primarily appearing on stage in New York City. She later moved to Hollywood and appeared in over 70 films throughout her career. Morris was known for her versatile acting ability, and portrayed a range of characters from comedic roles to more serious ones.
Some of Morris' notable film credits include "Gone with the Wind" (1939), "Jezebel" (1938), and "The Shop Around the Corner" (1940). Morris also worked in television, including appearances on shows such as "Dragnet" and "The Twilight Zone."
Aside from her acting work, Morris was active in various charitable organizations and was known for her philanthropy. She died in 2003 at the age of 95.
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Violet La Plante
Violet La Plante (January 17, 1908 St. Louis-June 1, 1984) also known as Violet Avon was an American actor.
During her early career, Violet La Plante appeared in several silent films in Hollywood, including "The Showdown" (1928) alongside Buck Jones and "Smiling Irish Eyes" (1929) with Colleen Moore. She later transitioned into talking pictures and continued to act in supporting roles in films such as "The Cat Creeps" (1930) and "Murder in the Private Car" (1934).
In addition to her film career, La Plante also appeared on Broadway in productions such as "Present Arms" (1928) and "Follow Thru" (1929). She was also a radio performer, working on shows such as "The Shadow" and "The Lone Ranger."
La Plante retired from acting in the early 1940s and lived a private life until her death in 1984 at the age of 76.
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Penny Singleton
Penny Singleton (September 15, 1908 Philadelphia-November 12, 2003 Sherman Oaks) a.k.a. Mariana Dorothy Agnes Letitia McNulty, Dorothy McNulty, Marianna Dorothy Agnes Letitia McNulty, Penny, Penny McNulty, Penny "Blondie Bumstead" Singleton or Blondie Bumstead was an American actor, singer, voice actor and dancer.
She is best known for her portrayal of Blondie Bumstead in the Blondie film series, which consisted of 28 movies from 1938 to 1950. Singleton began her career as a child performer in vaudeville in the 1920s and later transitioned to film and radio. She also provided the voice for Jane Jetson in the popular cartoon, The Jetsons. Outside of her acting career, Singleton was an accomplished athlete and was a member of the Roller Derby Hall of Fame. She was married twice and had two children. Singleton passed away in 2003 at the age of 95.
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Dorothea Wieck
Dorothea Wieck (January 3, 1908 Davos-February 19, 1986 Berlin) was a Swiss actor.
She started her early career as a stage actress performing in various theaters around Berlin. She soon became a prominent figure in German cinema during the 1920s and 1930s, appearing in numerous successful films such as "M - Eine Stadt sucht einen Mörder" (1931) and "Der Schimmelreiter" (1934). She also gained international recognition for her role as Frau von Rauffenstein in the French film "La Grande Illusion" (1937).
After the Second World War, Wieck continued to act in films and TV shows. She became particularly known for her roles in East German cinema, appearing in films such as "Der Untertan" (1951) and "Die Geschichte vom kleinen Muck" (1953). She also appeared in several West German productions including "Der Prozeß" (1962) and "Das Mädchen mit den schmalen Hüften" (1963).
Wieck continued to act on stage throughout her career and was honored with several awards for her contributions to the performing arts. She was also an active member of the East German Academy of Arts.
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Sally Eilers
Sally Eilers (December 11, 1908 New York City-January 5, 1978 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Dorothea Sally Eilers was an American actor. Her child is called Harry Joe Brown Jr..
Sally Eilers started her career in show business as a child model before transitioning into acting. She landed her first film role in the silent film "The Red Kimona" in 1925. She went on to star in over 65 films throughout her career, including "The Black Camel" (1931), "Surrender" (1931), and "The Sin of Madelon Claudet" (1931), for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
In addition to her acting work, Eilers was a philanthropist and was actively involved in various charitable causes. She also served on the board of directors for the Motion Picture and Television Fund.
After retiring from acting in 1959, Eilers remained involved in the film industry as a member of the Screen Actors Guild and as a television commentator for the Academy Awards.
Eilers passed away in 1978 at the age of 69.
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Lilian Bond
Lilian Bond (January 18, 1908 London-January 25, 1991 Reseda) also known as Lillian Bond or Bond Lillian was a British actor. She had two children, Michael Fessier and Jo Kelly.
Lilian Bond began her acting career in Britain before moving to Hollywood in the late 1920s. She was signed by the prestigious Fox Film Corporation and began appearing in supporting roles in films such as "The Thirteenth Chair" (1929) and "The Show of Shows" (1929). Her breakthrough role came in the film "The Old Dark House" (1932), directed by James Whale, where she played the lead female character opposite Boris Karloff.
Throughout the 1930s, Bond continued to work in Hollywood and appeared in over 30 films, including "The Strange Case of Clara Deane" (1932), "Son of Kong" (1933) and "It's a Gift" (1934). However, her career began to decline by the end of the decade, and she retired from acting in 1941.
After leaving Hollywood, Bond became a real estate agent, and later a successful businesswoman. She was married twice, first to director Michael Curtiz, and then to producer/director Gene Markey. Bond passed away in 1991 at the age of 83.
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Merna Kennedy
Merna Kennedy (September 7, 1908 Kankakee-December 20, 1944 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Maude Kahler was an American actor.
She gained recognition for her performance in the Charlie Chaplin film "The Circus" (1928). Kennedy started her acting career as a teenager on Broadway, appearing in various shows. After her success with Chaplin, she appeared in several silent and early sound pictures, often playing supporting roles. Kennedy retired from acting in the mid-1930s to focus on her family life. She was married to Busby Berkeley, a well-known Hollywood director and choreographer, from 1934 until their divorce in 1935. Sadly, Kennedy died at the age of 36 due to a heart condition. Despite her relatively short career, she made a significant impact on the film industry during the silent era.
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Helen Twelvetrees
Helen Twelvetrees (December 25, 1908 Brooklyn-February 13, 1958 Middletown) a.k.a. Helen Marie Jurgens was an American actor. Her child is called Frank Woody Jr..
Between 1929 and 1936, Helen Twelvetrees appeared in over 75 films. She was known for her leading roles in Pre-Code Hollywood films. Twelvetrees became a popular leading lady in the early sound era, often playing the role of the suffering, self-sacrificing woman who falls for a man from the wrong side of the tracks.
In addition to her film career, Twelvetrees had a successful stage career in the 1930s, performing in Broadway productions such as "The Social Register" and "The Shanghai Gesture."
Twelvetrees struggled with personal problems, including alcoholism, throughout her career. She eventually retired from acting in the mid-1930s and lived a quiet life until her death in 1958 at the age of 49.
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Lya Lys
Lya Lys (May 8, 1908 Berlin-June 2, 1986 Newport Beach) also known as Natalia Lyecht, Natalie Löscht, Natalie Margulis or Nathalie Margoulis was an American actor. She had one child, Joyce Wells.
Lya Lys began her career in Europe as a cabaret dancer and singer. She then moved to Hollywood in the 1930s and became known for her exotic looks and distinctive voice. She appeared in films such as "An American Tragedy" (1931), "Dracula's Daughter" (1936), and "One Night of Love" (1934). Despite her success, Lys faced discrimination in Hollywood due to her European accent and refused to play stereotypical roles. In the 1950s, she left acting and became a successful real estate agent. Lys passed away in 1986 at the age of 78.
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Gwili Andre
Gwili Andre (February 4, 1908 Copenhagen-February 5, 1959 Venice) also known as Gurli Andresen was a Danish actor. Her child is called Peter Lance Cross.
Gwili Andre began her acting career in Denmark but later moved to Hollywood, California to pursue her career in the film industry. She gained popularity for her performances in films such as "The Falcon's Brother" (1942) and "Two-Fisted Rangers" (1939). Andre was known for her striking beauty and talented acting skills, but her career was cut short due to personal struggles and financial difficulties. She made over a dozen films during her career, but unfortunately, most of them have been lost or destroyed. After leaving the film industry, Andre struggled to make a living and eventually passed away in Venice, Italy in 1959. Despite her relatively short career, she remains a notable figure in Hollywood history.
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Kathryn Crawford
Kathryn Crawford (October 5, 1908 Wellsboro-December 7, 1980 Pasadena) also known as Katherine Crawford, Kathryn Moran or Katherine Moran was an American actor.
Crawford began her acting career in the mid-1930s in both films and theater productions. She appeared in a number of films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, including "The Big Shot" (1942), "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" (1948), and "The Mating Season" (1951). In addition to her film work, Crawford also worked extensively in television during the 1950s and 1960s, appearing on shows such as "I Love Lucy," "Perry Mason," and "The Twilight Zone."
Crawford was active in the Screen Actors Guild, serving on the board of directors from 1952 to 1967. She was a strong advocate for actors' rights and was instrumental in securing better working conditions and wages for performers. In recognition of her contributions, the SAG named an award after her, the Kathryn Crawford Award, which is given annually to a member who has made outstanding contributions to the union.
Outside of her acting career, Crawford was also an avid traveler and wrote several books on the subject, including "On the Go in Mexico" and "Traveling Solo: Advice and Ideas for more than 250 Great Vacations." She passed away in 1980 at the age of 72.
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Virginia Cherrill
Virginia Cherrill (April 12, 1908 Carthage-November 14, 1996 Santa Barbara) also known as Countess of Jersey, Dollie Virginia Cherrill, Virginia Child-Villiers, Virginia Cherrill Martini, Virginia Cherril or Virginia Child-Villiers, Countess of Jersey was an American actor.
She is best known for her role as the blind flower girl in Charlie Chaplin's 1931 film "City Lights." Cherrill started her career in Hollywood in the late 1920s, appearing in small roles in various films. However, it was her performance in "City Lights" that brought her international fame and critical acclaim. After the success of the film, Cherrill acted in a few more movies before retiring from the film industry in 1936 after her marriage to Cary Grant. In addition to her acting career, Cherrill was also briefly a countess, having been married to the 13th Earl of Jersey in 1932. She was later married to actor George Child-Villiers and Italian aviator Carlo Mario di San Cataldo. After her retirement from acting, Cherrill led a private life and was involved in various charitable organizations.
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Eve Arden
Eve Arden (April 30, 1908 Mill Valley-November 12, 1990 Los Angeles) otherwise known as Eunice M. Quedens or Eunice Quedens was an American actor. She had one child, Douglas Brooks West.
Arden began her acting career on Broadway in the 1920s before transitioning to film in the 1930s. She appeared in over 60 films throughout her career, including "Mildred Pierce" and "Anatomy of a Murder." Arden is best known for her television roles, including playing the sharp-tongued school principal, Miss Brooks, on the popular sitcom "Our Miss Brooks" and as neighbor Lillian Appleby on "The Mothers-In-Law." She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 and was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1985.
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Raquel Torres
Raquel Torres (November 11, 1908 Hermosillo-August 10, 1987 Los Angeles) also known as Paula Marie Osterman or Paula Osterman was an American actor.
Born in Sonora, Mexico, Torres grew up in Hollywood and started her acting career in the silent film era. She became a star after her performance in "White Shadows in the South Seas" (1928). She also appeared in the film "Duck Soup" (1933) with the Marx Brothers.
Torres was one of the first Latin American actresses to achieve mainstream success in Hollywood. She was known for her beauty and her exotic looks, which she used to her advantage in her performances. After retiring from acting, she became involved in philanthropic work and was a co-founder of the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation.
Despite her success, Torres faced discrimination in Hollywood due to her ethnicity and struggled to find roles as she aged. She died in Los Angeles at the age of 78 from a heart attack.
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