Lilian Hall-Davis was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “The Farmer’s Wife,” “The Ring,” and “Little Women.” Born on June 23, 1898, in Mile End, London, England, she became one of the prominent actresses in British silent films during the early 20th century.
Personal and Family Life
Lilian Hall Davis was the daughter of a London cab driver. For her career, she altered the spelling of her name and claimed a more prestigious background. She married British stage actor Walter Pemberton in 1918, and together they had one child.
Career Achievements
Beginning her acting career in 1917, Hall-Davis quickly became a leading figure during the silent film era. She worked with renowned director Alfred Hitchcock, who considered her one of his favorite actresses, featuring her in notable films. However, her career declined in the early 1930s due to personal struggles, leading her to take on fewer roles.
Death and Legacy
Lilian Hall-Davis tragically passed away on October 25, 1933, at the age of 34. She was found by her 14-year-old son after taking her own life due to severe mental health issues, including neurasthenia and a nervous breakdown. Despite her untimely death, her work continues to be remembered in the context of early British cinema.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Farmer’s Wife | 1928-03-02 | Araminta ‘Minta’ Dench |
| The Unwanted | 1924-04-22 | Maraine Dearsley |
| The Eleventh Commandment | 1924-07-31 | Marian Barchester |
| Blitzzug der Liebe | 1925-05-06 | Lissi |
| La Proie du vent | 1927-05-12 | Countess Elisabeth |
| The Passionate Adventure | 1924-07-01 | Pamela |
| Just for a Song | 1930-03-11 | Norma Wentworth |
| Her Reputation | 1931-07-21 | Carruthers |
| Blighty | 1927-03-01 | Mrs. Villiers |
| Boadicea | 1927-09-05 | Emmelyn |
| The Ring | 1927-10-01 | Mabel |
| Many Waters | 1931-11-01 | Mabel Barcaldine |
| Der Farmer aus Texas | 1925-10-21 | Alice |
| Wolga Wolga | 1928-11-15 | Princess Zaineb |
| Die drei Kuckucksuhren | 1926-05-25 | Gladys Clifton |
| The Wonderful Story | 1922-05-05 | Kate Richards |
| Little Women | 1918-11-30 | Beth March |
| Quo Vadis? | 1924-10-01 | Licia |
| Roses of Picardy | 1927-04-01 | |
| The White Sheik | 1928-01-17 | Rosemary Tregarthen |
| Nitchevo | 1926-12-20 | |
| Tommy Atkins | 1928-05-18 | Ruth |
| Liebe macht blind | 1926-08-16 | |
| A Royal Divorce | 1923-01-01 | Stephanie |
| Married Love | 1923-06-01 | Maisie |