Gertrude Short was an American actress who is best known for her roles in films like The Key, A Little Princess, and Week-End at the Waldorf.
Personal and Family Life
Gertrude Short was born on April 6, 1902, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to actor Lew Short and actress Estelle Short. She had a sister, Florence Short, and a brother, Antrim Short, who were also in the acting industry. Gertrude was married to director and writer Scott Pembroke, which allowed her to collaborate creatively throughout her career.
Career
Gertrude began her entertainment journey in vaudeville, performing for five years before transitioning to legitimate theater and Hollywood in 1922. She became famous for her portrayals of telephone operators in various films and was featured in a series of “Telephone Girl” comedies directed by her husband from 1924 to 1925. Gertrude left the film industry during WWII to work at Lockheed, where she stayed until her retirement in 1967.
Death and Legacy
Gertrude Short passed away on July 31, 1968, in Hollywood, California. Though she is no longer with us, her contributions to film and theater are remembered, particularly her role in the early days of Hollywood and vaudeville. Her legacy continues through her performances in numerous films and as part of a family lineage in the acting world.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Key | 1934-06-09 | Evie, the barmaid |
| The Show | 1927-01-22 | Lena Driskai |
| A Little Princess | 1917-11-05 | Ermigarde |
| Penny Wisdom | 1937-04-10 | Chloe Smudge (uncredited) |
| Park Avenue Logger | 1937-03-16 | Margy MacLean |
| Tip-Off Girls | 1938-04-01 | ‘Boots’ Milburn |
| Laughing Sinners | 1931-05-30 | Edna |
| The St. Louis Kid | 1934-11-10 | Babe Smith – the Girl Buck Picks Up |
| Sherlock’s Home | 1924-05-13 | Sadie |
| Beggar on Horseback | 1925-06-05 | Gladys Cady |