Mary Eaton was an American actress who is best known for her roles in The Cocoanuts, Glorifying the American Girl, and Kid Boots. Born on January 29, 1901, in Norfolk, Virginia, she garnered fame in the 1920s and 1930s as part of the “Seven Little Eatons” family.
Personal and Family Life
Mary Eaton had a complex family life, being one of seven siblings, including notable performers Pearl and Doris Eaton. She was married three times, with her last husband being fellow actor Eddie Laughton, whom she married in 1944. Unfortunately, Mary struggled with alcoholism throughout her life, which deeply affected her relationships and career.
Career Highlights
Mary’s career began flourishing in the 1920s when she starred in the Ziegfeld Follies. She was known for her roles in popular Broadway shows and transitioned into the film industry with significant roles in early talking pictures like The Cocoanuts and Glorifying the American Girl. Despite her early success, her career began to decline in the 1930s, leading to personal struggles.
Death and Legacy
Mary Eaton passed away on October 10, 1948, in Hollywood, California, from cardiac failure due to her long battle with alcoholism. Although her death was linked to cirrhosis of the liver, her official cause of death was cardiac failure. Mary’s struggles with alcohol mirrored those of several family members, ultimately overshadowing her once-promising career.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Cocoanuts | 1929-05-23 | Polly Potter |
| Glorifying the American Girl | 1929-12-07 | Gloria Hughes |
| A Ziegfeld Midnight Frolic | 1929-05-04 | Self |
| His Children’s Children | 1923-11-04 | Mercedes |
| Kodachrome Two-Color Test Shots No. III | 1922-01-01 |