Julia Faye was an American actress known for her roles in films like The Ten Commandments, The Greatest Show on Earth, and The Volga Boatman. She gained fame during the silent film era and had a long career with numerous appearances in major productions.
Personal and Family Life
Julia Faye was born on September 24, 1892, in Richmond, Virginia, to a French-American family. She spent her early childhood in St. Louis, Missouri, where her Southern drawl became a notable aspect of her character. She studied at Illinois State University, and although her parents wanted her to become a teacher, she pursued a career in modeling and acting instead.
Career
Julia’s acting career began when she became a model, and she was discovered by director Cecil B. DeMille. She quickly moved to acting, appearing in small roles and gaining a reputation as a “leg model.” Throughout the 1920s, she starred in several of DeMille’s films, showcasing her charm and sophistication, leading to significant roles including Martha in The King of Kings. However, by the early 1930s, her popularity started to decline, and even though she studied screenwriting under DeMille, she faced challenges finding substantial roles.
Death and Legacy
Julia Faye passed away on April 6, 1966, in Hollywood, California, after battling cancer. She is remembered for her contributions to early cinema and has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring her legacy in the film industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Ten Commandments | 1923-11-23 | The Wife of Pharaoh |
| The Greatest Show on Earth | 1952-02-16 | Birdie |
| A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court | 1949-04-18 | Lady Penelope |
| The Volga Boatman | 1926-05-23 | Mariusha |
| Dynamite | 1929-12-13 | Marcia Towne |
| Manslaughter | 1922-09-24 | Mrs. Drummond |
| The King of Kings | 1927-04-19 | Martha |
| Saturday Night | 1922-01-29 | Elsie Prentiss |
| Sunset Boulevard | 1950-08-10 | Hisham (uncredited) |