Acquanetta was an American actress known for her roles in films like Tarzan and the Leopard Woman, Jungle Woman, and Dead Man’s Eyes. Born Mildred Davenport, she was often referred to as the “Venezuelan Volcano” due to her exotic image.
Personal and Family Life
Acquanetta was born on July 17, 1921, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, although some records suggest she may have origins in Pennsylvania. She had a complicated personal life, with three marriages—her first was to Luciano Bashuk, followed by Henry Clive, and lastly Jack Ross. She had a total of five children: one daughter from her second marriage and four sons from her third.
Career
Acquanetta gained fame as a unique figure in Hollywood, often wearing long black braids and beautiful silver and turquoise jewelry that set her apart. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, she starred in various genre films and became a local celebrity in Phoenix, Arizona, where she hosted her television program called “Acqua’s Corner.” Additionally, she wrote a book of poetry and was actively involved in charity work for several cultural organizations.
Death and Legacy
Acquanetta passed away on August 16, 2004, in Ahwatukee, Arizona, due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 83. She left behind a legacy of not only her film work but also her contributions to the local community and the cultural causes she supported throughout her life. Her influence as a notable female figure in Hollywood and the unique story of her heritage continues to be recognized.
Filmography
Title | Release Date | Character |
---|---|---|
Lost Continent | 1951-08-17 | Native Girl |
The Sword of Monte Cristo | 1951-03-03 | Felice |
Dead Man’s Eyes | 1944-11-10 | Tanya Czoraki |
Tarzan and the Leopard Woman | 1946-02-18 | Lea, the High Priestess |
Captive Wild Woman | 1943-06-04 | Paula Dupree, the Ape Woman |
Jungle Woman | 1944-06-01 | Paula Dupree, the Ape Woman |
Rhythm of the Islands | 1943-04-16 | Luani |
Take the High Ground! | 1953-10-30 | Bar Girl (uncredited) |
Arabian Nights | 1942-12-25 | Ishya (uncredited) |
Callaway Went Thataway | 1951-11-15 | Native Girl with Smoky (uncredited) |