Mabel Taliaferro was an American actress who is best known for A Wife by Proxy, Cinderella, and Alexander Hamilton. Born on May 21, 1887, in New York City, she had a prolific career in theater and film, captivating audiences with her performances until her passing.
Personal and Family Life
Mabel Taliaferro was married four times, first to Frederic Thompson, then to Thomas Carrigan, followed by Joseph O’Brien, and finally to Robert Ober, with whom she remained until his death in 1950. She had a sister, actress Edith Taliaferro, and was also related to actress Bessie Barriscale. Taliaferro began performing on stage at the young age of two and made her Broadway debut in 1899.
Career
Starting her film career with Selig Studios in 1911, Mabel transitioned between stage and screen seamlessly. Her last significant success was in the musical comedy ‘Bloomer Girl,’ which ran from 1944 to 1947. Throughout her career, she built a reputation as ‘The Sweetheart of American Movies,’ showcasing her talent across various productions.
Death and Legacy
Mabel Taliaferro passed away on January 24, 1979, in Honolulu, Hawaii. Her contributions to both theater and film have left a lasting impact, and she is remembered fondly for her early works and significant place in American entertainment history.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| A Wife by Proxy | 1917 | |
| Cinderella | 1912 | |
| Alexander Hamilton | 1924 | Elizabeth Schuyler |
| You Can’t Take It with You | 1945 | Penny Sycamore |
| My Love Came Back | 1940 | Dowager |
| Sentimental Tommy | 1921 | |
| Peggy Leads the Way | 1917 | |
| Draft 258 | 1917 | Mary Alden |
| The Jury of Fate | 1917 | Jeanne, Jaques |
| Peggy, the Will O’ the Wisp | 1917 | Peggy Desmond |