Mercy Haystead was an American actress known for her roles in The Beggar’s Opera, Dentist on the Job, and Paradise Lagoon. Born on February 2, 1930, in London, England, UK, she made significant contributions to film before stepping back from acting in 1966.
Personal and Family Life
Mercy Haystead married Anthony (Tony) Gerald Samuel on August 1, 1966, and remained married to him until his death on January 3, 2001. Prior to their marriage, Tony had been married twice, with Mercy being his third wife. During World War II, she was evacuated to the Midlands and spent part of her childhood working on farms, which shaped her early years and experiences.
Career
Mercy began her acting career at the age of eighteen after receiving a scholarship to study at RADA. She appeared in several films, cementing her reputation in the industry with notable performances throughout the 1950s. However, after her marriage to Tony Samuel, she decided to leave acting to focus on her family life.
Death and Legacy
Mercy Haystead passed away on January 11, 2015. Although she stepped back from the spotlight, her contributions to cinema during the 1950s left a lasting impact. Her choice to prioritize family over her career remains a testament to her values and dedication.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| What the Butler Saw | 1950-06-01 | Lapis |
| Girls at Sea | 1958-10-01 | Claudine |
| Cross-Roads | 1955-02-01 | Betty |
| Smart Alec | 1951-03-01 | Judith Albion |
| The Admirable Crichton | 1957-06-11 | Catherine |
| Private Information | 1952-03-26 | Iris Freemantle |
| The Beggar’s Opera | 1953-08-24 | Dolly Trull |
| Sing Along with Me | 1952-02-19 | Gloria |