Hilda Simms was an American actress best known for her performances in “Anna Lucasta,” “The Joe Louis Story,” and “Black Widow.” Born Hilda Moses on April 15, 1918, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, she became a prominent figure in American theater and film.
Personal and Family Life
Hilda Simms was born into a large family as one of nine children. Initially, she aimed to become a teacher and attended the University of Minnesota, but financial issues led her to leave her studies. After moving to New York, she joined the American Negro Theater, where she gained valuable acting skills and married William Redmond Simms, taking his surname. Their marriage was brief, ending in divorce in 1946.
Career Achievements
After her divorce, Hilda gained fame with her role in “Anna Lucasta,” a production initially written for an all-white cast, showcasing themes beyond race. The play gained acclaim and moved to Broadway, where it featured many notable African American actors. Hilda’s talent also led her to perform in Parisian nightclubs under the name Julie Riccardo. Although her film career was short-lived, her performances left a lasting impression.
Death and Legacy
Hilda Simms passed away on February 6, 1994, in Buffalo, New York, due to pancreatic cancer at the age of 75. Despite her talents, Hilda faced challenges, including the Hollywood blacklist, which overshadowed her career. Nevertheless, her contributions to theater and her activism for African American representation have left a significant legacy.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Black Widow | 1954-10-28 | Anne |
| The Joe Louis Story | 1953-09-18 | Marva Trotter Louis |
| A Man Is Ten Feet Tall | 1955-10-02 | Lucy Tyler |
| Champion | 1949-04-09 | Maid (uncredited) |