Lillian Gish was an American actress who is best known for The Birth of a Nation, Broken Blossoms, and The Night of the Hunter. She is often referred to as “The First Lady of American Cinema” for her impactful career in film.
Personal and Family Life
Lillian Diana Gish was born on October 14, 1893, in Springfield, Ohio. She grew up in a challenging environment, as her father was an alcoholic who was mostly absent. To support the family, Lillian and her sister, Dorothy, began acting in local productions at a young age. Their mother, Mary Gish, also played a significant role in their early careers.
Career Highlights
Lillian Gish started her film career in 1912 after being discovered by the famous director D.W. Griffith. She quickly gained fame, starring in multiple films in her early years, including The Birth of a Nation in 1915. Lillian’s ability to select roles showcased her talent, allowing her to remain relevant in the film industry even as it changed from silent films to talkies.
Death and Legacy
Lillian Gish passed away on February 27, 1993, at the age of 99 due to heart failure in her New York City apartment. Throughout her 75-year career, she became an icon and influenced many actors and filmmakers. Gish’s contributions to cinema have left an enduring legacy that is remembered by fans and historians alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Birth of a Nation | 1915-02-08 | Stoneman’s Daughter Elsie |
| Broken Blossoms | 1919-05-13 | Lucy Burrows |
| Intolerance | 1916-09-04 | The Woman Who Rocks the Cradle |
| The Night of the Hunter | 1955-08-26 | Rachel Cooper |
| The Scarlet Letter | 1927-01-08 | Hester Prynne |
| Duel in the Sun | 1946-12-31 | Laura Belle McCanles |
| The Whales of August | 1987-10-14 | Sarah Webber |
| Top Man | 1943-09-17 | Beth Warren |
| His Double Life | 1933-12-14 | Alice Chalice |
| Way Down East | 1920-09-03 | Anna Moore |