Ellaline Terriss was an American actress best known for her roles in musical comedies and films during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras. She was celebrated for her performances alongside her husband, Seymour Hicks, in various productions.
Personal and Family Life
Born Mary Ellaline Lewin on April 13, 1871, in Stanley, Falkland Islands, she was the daughter of renowned British actor William Terriss. Ellaline was married to Seymour Hicks from 1893 until his death in 1949, and they had at least one child together, Betty Hicks. She had two siblings in the industry: her brother, William Terriss, was also an actor, and her brother, Tom Terriss, was involved in directing, writing, and producing.
Career Highlights
Ellaline made her stage debut at age 16 and quickly became a star in London’s musical comedies through the 1890s. She collaborated with Seymour Hicks on popular productions like “The Shop Girl” and “The Circus Girl.” Although she retired from performing in 1917, she returned for a production during the 1925-26 season, featuring both her husband and daughter in the play.
Death and Legacy
Ellaline Terriss passed away on June 16, 1971, at the age of 100, following a hip fracture. Her legacy is marked by her significant contributions to theater and film during a transitional period in entertainment, alongside her husband who was knighted for his accomplishments. She is remembered as a prominent figure in musical comedy.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Four Just Men | 1939-06-01 | Lady Willoughby |
| The Iron Duke | 1934-11-30 | |
| Always Tell Your Wife | 1923-02-10 | The Wife – Mrs. Chesson |
| Blighty | 1927-03-01 | Lady Villiers |
| Land of Hope and Glory | 1927-11-01 | Mrs. Whiteford |
| Glamour | 1931-06-05 | Lady Belton |
| Man of Mayfair | 1931-11-30 | Old Grace |
| Atlantic | 1929-11-15 | Alice Rool |
| Masks and Faces | 1917-03-01 | Member of Rich’s Company |
| Scrooge | 1913-09-01 | |
| The World Famous Musical Comedy Artists Seymour Hicks and Ellaline Terriss in a Selection of Their Dances | 1913-06-01 |