Martha O’Driscoll

Martha O’Driscoll was an American actress best known for her roles in films such as “Li’l Abner,” “House of Dracula,” and “The Lady Eve.” Born on March 4, 1922, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, she became a prominent figure in Hollywood during the 1940s.

Personal and Family Life

Martha O’Driscoll had a colorful personal life, having been married twice. She first married Richard D. Adams in 1943 but divorced after ten months. In 1947, she married Arthur I. Appleton, with whom she had four children, three sons and a daughter. The couple was actively involved in thoroughbred horse racing and contributed to the local arts by building the Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala, Florida.

Career

Martha started her career in entertainment as a child model and was discovered by choreographer Hermes Pan, which led to her film debut in “The Big Broadcast of 1936.” Throughout her 12-year Hollywood career, she appeared in various genres, including musicals and horror films. Some of her notable performances include playing Daisy Mae in “Li’l Abner” and Miliza Morelle in “House of Dracula.” After her marriage to Appleton, she retired from acting at the young age of 25, focusing on community service and supporting her husband’s ventures.

Death and Legacy

Martha O’Driscoll passed away on November 3, 1998, in Miami, Florida. She left behind a legacy as an actress who made significant contributions to the film industry and later to her community through various civic activities. Her work in cinema during the golden age of Hollywood remains fondly remembered.

Filmography