Drue Leyton was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “Charlie Chan in London,” “Blackmailer,” and “Alibi for Murder.” Born on June 12, 1903, in Somers, Wisconsin, she had a notable career in film during the 1930s.
Personal and Family Life
Drue Leyton, originally named Dorothy Blackman, had a brief marriage to Jacques Terrane from September 1938 until his death in June 1941. Throughout her life, she was known for her adventurous spirit and dramatic experiences beyond her acting career.
Career Highlights
Leyton appeared in several films produced by 20th Century Fox and Columbia, gaining recognition for her performances in the Charlie Chan series. She also took to the stage in Broadway, although there are some uncertainties regarding her role in “Green Grow the Lilacs.”
Death and Legacy
Drue Leyton passed away on February 8, 1997, in Corona Del Mar, California. Her legacy continues through her remarkable wartime activities, where she helped many Allied pilots escape from occupied France during World War II and chronicled her experiences in her book “The House Near Paris.”
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Charlie Chan in London | 1934-09-12 | Pamela Gray |
| Charlie Chan at the Circus | 1936-03-27 | Nellie Farrell |
| Murder in Soho | 1939-02-01 | Myrtle |
| Valley of Wanted Men | 1935-10-19 | Sally Sanderson |
| Change of Heart | 1934-05-18 | Mrs. Louise Mockby |
| Charlie Chan’s Courage | 1934-07-06 | Paula Graham |
| Alibi for Murder | 1936-09-23 | Mrs. Foster |
| Small Town Girl | 1936-04-10 | Felicia (uncredited) |
| Blackmailer | 1936-07-23 | Lydia Rankin |
| La Mode rêvée | 1940-01-28 |