May Boley was an American actress recognized for her roles in classic films such as Tovarich, Children of Pleasure, and Moby Dick. Born on May 29, 1881, in Washington, D.C., she made a name for herself with her unique portrayals of eccentric and grotesque characters. She passed away on January 7, 1963, in Hollywood, California.
Personal and Family Life
May Boley was born into a family that supported her artistic aspirations. She began her career on Broadway, performing in musical comedies from 1898. Her talent for playing unusual characters helped her transition into film, where she continued to entertain audiences throughout her life.
Career Highlights
Boley’s film career flourished during the 1930s, characterized by her ability to embody a variety of quirky roles, including bearded ladies and burlesque performers. In addition to her film work, she was a prolific stage performer, showcasing her skills in musical theatre before transitioning to cinema.
Death and Legacy
May Boley died from cancer on January 7, 1963, in Hollywood. Her legacy lives on through her memorable performances in early American cinema and her contributions to the Broadway stage. She remains celebrated for her distinctive roles that combined humor and eccentricity.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Tovarich | 1937-12-25 | Louise |
| Fighting Caravans | 1931-02-01 | Jane |
| Children of Pleasure | 1930-04-26 | Fanny Kaye |
| A Woman Commands | 1932-02-12 | Mascha |
| The Wagon Show | 1928-02-19 | Strong Woman |
| The Mighty Barnum | 1934-12-23 | Bearded Lady |
| The Mighty Barnum | 1934-12-23 | J. P. Skiff |
| Ready, Willing and Able | 1937-03-06 | Mrs. Beadle |
| The Dance of Life | 1929-08-16 | Gussie |
| Prison Farm | 1938-06-17 | ‘Shifty’ Sue |
| The Expert | 1932-03-05 | Mrs. Smallbridge |
| Cowboy from Brooklyn | 1938-07-09 | Mrs. Krinkenheim |
| Going Wild | 1930-12-21 | May Bunch |
| Without Orders | 1936-10-22 | Mrs. Maddy Overhose |
| The Women | 1939-09-01 | Mud Mask (uncredited) |
| Henry Goes Arizona | 1939-12-08 | Henry’s Landlady (uncredited) |
| Moby Dick | 1930-09-20 | Whale Oil Rosie |
| Dangerous Curves | 1929-07-12 | Ma Spinelli |
| Kitty Foyle | 1940-12-27 | Fainting Customer (uncredited) |
| Lady with Red Hair | 1940-11-30 | Mrs. Peabody (uncredited) |
| Persons in Hiding | 1939-02-10 | Mme. Thompson |
| The Informer | 1935-05-09 | Madame Betty |
| Lilies of the Field | 1930-01-05 | Maizie |
| The Woman from Hell | 1929-04-20 | Mother Price |
| The Kiss Before the Mirror | 1933-05-04 | Busybody in Courtroom |
| Reckless Living | 1938-03-01 | Mother Ryan |
| Letter of Introduction | 1938-08-05 | Mrs. Meggs – the Landlady (uncredited) |