Mary Nell Santacroce was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “Wise Blood,” “Not Without My Daughter,” and “Cold Sassy Tree.” She had a significant career in both film and television, showcasing her talent across various genres.
Personal and Family Life
Mary Nell Santacroce was born Mary Nell McKoin on May 25, 1918, in Atlanta, Georgia. She was married twice; her first husband was Hugh Dougherty Ivey, Jr., with whom she had two children. Later, she wed Dante Santacroce in 1957, and they had one child together. Mary Nell was the mother of actress Dana Ivey, continuing the family legacy in the entertainment industry.
Death and Legacy
Mary Nell Santacroce passed away on February 17, 1999, in Atlanta, Georgia, due to leukemia and bone cancer. She left behind a lasting impact on the acting community, praised for her craft. John Huston once remarked that she was “one of the three or four greatest actresses in the world.” Her contributions to theater and film continue to be remembered, particularly for her influence on aspiring actors in Georgia.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Night Shadows | 1984-07-06 | Mrs. Eleanor Mapes |
| Silent Cries | 1993-03-08 | Mrs. Englethrope |
| The Ordeal of Dr. Mudd | 1980-03-25 | Ellen Stanton |
| Impure Thoughts | 1986-11-25 | Sister Gertrude |
| Wise Blood | 1979-10-24 | Landlady |
| Stolen Babies | 1993-03-24 | Judge Camille Kelley |
| The War | 1994-11-04 | Mrs. Higgins |
| Night of the Hunter | 1991-05-04 | Mrs. Spoon |
| Not Without My Daughter | 1991-01-11 | Grandma |
| Carolina Skeletons | 1991-09-30 | Secretary |
| Something to Talk About | 1995-08-04 | Mrs. Pinkerton |
| One Terrific Guy | 1986-02-18 | Secretary |
| Wife, Mother, Murderer: The Marie Hilley Story | 1991-11-10 | Grandma |
| Cold Sassy Tree | 1989-10-16 | Miss Gussie |
| The Private Eyes | 1980-04-17 | Lady Victoria Morley |
| A Passion for Justice: The Hazel Brannon Smith Story | 1994-04-17 | Eudora |
| Summer of My German Soldier | 1978-10-30 | Gussie Mae |
| The Legend of Blood Mountain | 1965-09-29 | |
| Rising Son | 1990-07-23 | Marge |