Marie Dressler was an American actress known best for her roles in “Min and Bill,” “Anna Christie,” and “Dinner at Eight.” Born as Leila Marie Koerber in Canada, she made a significant mark in the film industry during the sound era.
Personal and Family Life
Marie Dressler was born on November 9, 1868, in Cobourg, Ontario, Canada. She was married twice; her first husband was George Hoppert, whom she divorced in 1896 after having one child. Later, she married James H. Dalton in 1908, and they remained together until his death in 1921.
Career Journey
She began her career young, joining a theater group at 14 and later performing on Broadway. Despite many ups and downs, including a significant career slump in the 1910s, she made a remarkable comeback in the late 1920s thanks to support from friends, notably screenwriter Frances Marion. Dressler became a major star in the sound film era, celebrated for her comedic talent and won an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1931.
Death and Legacy
Marie Dressler passed away on July 28, 1934, in Santa Barbara, California, due to cancer. She left a lasting legacy in Hollywood, remembered for her impressive performances and as one of the top box office draws of her time. Her story remains an inspiration for many aspiring actors.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Tillie’s Punctured Romance | 1914-12-21 | Tillie Banks |
| The Hollywood Revue of 1929 | 1929-11-23 | Self |
| Anna Christie | 1930-02-21 | Marthy Owens |
| Dinner at Eight | 1933-12-22 | Carlotta Vance |
| The Patsy | 1928-04-22 | Ma Harrington |
| Tugboat Annie | 1933-08-04 | Annie |
| Min and Bill | 1930-11-29 | Min Divot |
| The Divine Lady | 1928-12-26 | Mrs. Hart |
| Emma | 1932-01-02 | Emma Thatcher |
| Let Us Be Gay | 1930-07-11 | Mrs. Bouccicault |
| The Vagabond Lover | 1929-12-01 | Ethel Bertha Whitehall |
| Chasing Rainbows | 1930-01-10 | Bonnie |
| The Girl Said No | 1930-03-15 | Hettie Brown |
| Reducing | 1931-01-03 | Marie Truffle |
| Prosperity | 1932-11-18 | Maggie Warren |
| Politics | 1931-02-26 | Hattie Burns |
| The Christmas Party | 1931-12-17 | Herself (uncredited) |
| The Joy Girl | 1927-09-03 | Mrs. Heath |
| Going Hollywood | 1933-12-22 | Herself – Premiere Clip (archive footage) |
| That’s Entertainment! III | 1994-07-01 | (archive footage) |