Eleanor Thatcher was an American actress best known for her roles in “Wild People,” “The Road to Ruin,” and “Over the Counter.” She was born on February 21, 1910, in Binghamton, New York, and passed away on March 13, 1987.
Personal and Family Life
Eleanor Thatcher grew up in Binghamton and often sang in church, developing a passion for dancing. In the early 1930s, seeking adventure, she moved to Hollywood. There, she met Daniel Lesle, whom she married and had two children with. Eleanor also worked as a secretary in a department store where both she and her husband were employed.
Career Highlights
After moving to Hollywood in 1932, Eleanor began her acting career at MGM Studios as a dress extra. She gained popularity for her performances in musical shorts and became known for her distinctive “wiggle” in “Campus Crawl.” However, after being dropped by MGM, she returned to Binghamton to focus on family life, feeling grateful for her brief time in the limelight.
Death and Legacy
Eleanor Thatcher Lesle died on March 13, 1987, at Lourdes Hospital in Binghamton due to an intestinal ailment at the age of 77. Despite her short acting career, she cherished her experiences and believed it was better to have been a has-been than never to have been at all.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Wild People | 1932-07-15 | Singer |
| The Road to Ruin | 1934-05-14 | Dancer |
| Over the Counter | 1932-10-15 | Vocalist |