Bess Flowers was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “It Happened One Night,” “You Can’t Take It with You,” and “All About Eve.” She became notable in Hollywood as the ‘Queen of the Hollywood Extras’ due to her vast number of film appearances.
Personal and Family Life
Bess Flowers was born on November 23, 1898, in Sherman, Texas. She was previously married to Cullen Tate, who was an assistant director for Cecil B. DeMille, and they divorced after five years. Later, she married William S. Holman, a studio manager, but this marriage also ended in divorce. Bess had one child, Patricia E. Tate, who sadly passed away in 1972.
Death and Legacy
Bess Flowers passed away on July 28, 1984, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, California. Known for her prolific career, she reportedly appeared in over 800 films during her lifetime, including five Best Picture winners at the Academy Awards. Her contributions to the film industry have left a lasting legacy, earning her the affectionate title of the ‘Queen of the Dress Extras.’
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| North by Northwest | 1959-07-08 | Plaza Hotel Lounge Patron (uncredited) |
| To Catch a Thief | 1955-08-03 | Masquerade Party Guest (uncredited) |
| Vertigo | 1958-05-28 | Diner at Ernie’s (uncredited) |
| Dial M for Murder | 1954-05-29 | Woman Exiting Ship |
| The Day the Earth Stood Still | 1951-09-28 | Lady Outside Jewelry Store |
| Judgment at Nuremberg | 1961-12-18 | Concert Attendee (uncredited) |
| Houseboat | 1958-11-19 | Wedding Guest |
| Blondie in Society | 1941-07-17 | Dog Collar Saleslady (uncredited) |
| Funny Face | 1957-02-13 | Fashion Show Spectator |
| Winter Meeting | 1948-04-07 | Restaurant Patron |
| Remember the Day | 1941-12-25 | Lady in Political Entourage |
| The Velvet Touch | 1948-07-13 | Party Guest (uncredited) |