Mildred Shay

Mildred Shay was an American actress known for her roles in films such as The Women, Balalaika, and The Great Gatsby. She was often referred to by her nickname, “Pocket Venus,” owing to her petite stature.

Personal and Family Life

Mildred Shay was born on September 26, 1911, in Syracuse, New York. She came from a wealthy family and was educated in a Swiss school for girls. Throughout her life, Mildred had three husbands: Winthrop Gardner, Thomas Francis Murphy, and Geoffrey Steele, with whom she had one child. Despite her glamorous life in Hollywood, she experienced personal tragedy when her older brother died in a car accident involving their family’s chauffeur.

Career

Mildred began her career by testing for MGM and quickly found success, starting with dubbing for Greta Garbo in Grand Hotel. She became well-known for her role in The Women (1939) and had a vibrant career that included both stage and film work. After taking time off for motherhood, she made a comeback with The Great Gatsby in 1974 and continued to work into her later years, being photographed with various Hollywood stars as recently as 2004.

Death and Legacy

Mildred Shay passed away on October 15, 2005, in Glendale, California, due to complications from a stroke. She left behind a legacy as a well-connected actress who charmed everyone in Hollywood. Her career, spanning over several decades, made her a beloved figure in the industry.

Filmography

Title Release Date Character
Brief Encounter 1974-11-12 (Uncredited)
Made for Each Other 1939-02-10 John Horace Mason’s Secretary (uncredited)
The Women 1939-09-01 Crystal’s French Maid Helen (uncredited)
Balalaika 1939-12-15 Jeanette Sibirsky
Ride, Tenderfoot, Ride 1940-09-05 Stewardess
In Old Missouri 1940-04-17 Mme. Chee-Chee
Candleshoe 1977-12-16 Mrs. McCress
The Philadelphia Story 1940-12-05 Main Line Society Woman (uncredited)
And One Was Beautiful 1940-04-05 Girlfriend
All Women Have Secrets 1939-12-15 Chloe
Bullseye! 1990-11-02 Jolene, Tourist
Roar of the Press 1941-04-17 Helen
Death Wish 3 1985-11-01 Mrs. Marta Emil
A Bill of Divorcement 1932-09-28 Party Guest
Before Water Lilies 1981-03-24 Angie
The Great Gatsby 1974-03-27 Party Guest (uncredited)
Funny Money 1982-01-08 Mrs. Keller
Little Shop of Horrors 1986-12-19 Second Customer
Valentino 1977-09-07 Old Lady
Inspector Morse 1987-01-06 Janet Roscoe