Marjorie Cameron was an American actress best known for her roles in Night Tide, The Inauguration of the Pleasure Dome, and The Wormwood Star. She was born on April 23, 1922, in Belle Plain, Iowa, and gained recognition in the art and film communities.
Personal and Family Life
Cameron grew up in Wisconsin and served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, working as an aide and photographer in Washington. After the war, she relocated to Los Angeles, where she met her future husband, John W. (Jack) Parsons, a notable figure in rocketry and the occult. They married on October 19, 1946, and were part of a vibrant community of artists and writers.
Career
Cameron’s career included notable performances in film and art. She gained fame as the Scarlet Woman and Kali in Kenneth Anger’s 1954 film, Inauguration of the Pleasure Dome. Her unique artistic style and involvement in the Los Angeles art scene led her to create works showcased in major art museums. She was friends with influential figures, including Dennis Hopper and Dean Stockwell, and starred as the Water Witch in Night Tide (1961).
Death and Legacy
Marjorie Cameron passed away on June 24, 1995, at the age of 73 due to cancer. Her life and work have continued to inspire artists and filmmakers, and she is remembered for her contributions to both the occult and the cinematic worlds. Her legacy includes a unique blend of art, film, and personal experiences that reflect a fascinating era in American culture.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Night Tide | 1961-07-01 | Water Witch |
| The Wormwood Star | 1956-01-01 | The Woman |
| Going Clear: Scientology and the Prison of Belief | 2015-01-25 | Self (archive footage) |
| Street Fair | 1959-06-16 | |
| The Inauguration of the Pleasure Dome | 1954-03-29 | The Scarlet Woman / Kali |
| Loose Ends | 1979-11-16 | Narrator (voice) |
| High, Wide and Handsome | 1937-07-21 | Blonde Singer (uncredited) |
| The Films of Kenneth Anger: Volume One | 2007-01-23 |