Muriel Ostriche was an American actor who is best known for her roles in silent films including “The Shadow,” “Betty, the Vamp,” and “The Sacred Flame.” Born on May 24, 1896, in New York City, she became a prominent figure in early cinema before retiring in the 1920s.
Personal and Family Life
Muriel Ostriche was married twice and had a total of four children, two with each husband. Her first husband was Charles Wesley Copp, Jr., whom she married in 1926 and who passed away in 1957. She also had a brief marriage to Frank A. Brady. Throughout her life, she enjoyed the social scene of the entertainment industry, often seen in upscale restaurants where she loved to dance.
Career Highlights
Ostriche began her career when she was discovered by director Christy Cabanne while still in high school. She started at American Biograph but quickly moved on to various studios such as Powers, Pathe, and Thanhouser. At Thanhouser, she had a special division created just for her called Princess Films, producing numerous one-reelers. Her last film, “The Shadow,” was made in 1921, after which she retired from acting.
Death and Legacy
Muriel Ostriche passed away on May 3, 1989, in St. Petersburg, Florida, after a short illness at the age of 93. Her contributions to silent film and her charismatic on-screen presence have left a lasting impression in the history of American cinema.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1921 | The Shadow | Unknown |
| 1920 | Betty, the Vamp | Betty |
| 1920 | Meet Betty’s Husband | Betty |
| 1920 | Betty’s Green-Eyed Monster | Betty |
| 1920 | Betty Sets the Pace | Betty |
| 1920 | The Sacred Flame | Ray Palton |
| 1919 | The Hand Invisible | Helen Haynes |
| 1919 | The Moral Deadline | Barbara Van Vliets |
| 1919 | The Bluffer | Grace Moran |
| 1919 | What Love Forgives | Dorothy Deal |
| 1918 | Hitting the Trail | Annie |
| 1918 | The Road to France | Mollie |
| 1918 | Merely Players | Vera Seynave |
| 1918 | Tinsel | Ruth Carmichael |
| 1918 | Journey’s End | Jess Alden |