Myrna Loy was an American actress who is best known for The Thin Man, The Best Years of Our Lives, and Cheaper by the Dozen.
Personal and Family Life
Myrna Loy, born Myrna Adele Williams on August 2, 1905, in Helena, Montana, had a family background that influenced her early life. Her father was an influential figure, being the youngest elected member of the Montana State legislature. After her father’s death when she was 13, her family relocated to Los Angeles, where she began to pursue acting while still in school.
Career Highlights
Starting her career at 15, Myrna appeared in local stage productions supporting her family. She transitioned from silent films to talkies, gaining fame for her roles as a witty and refined character. Her breakout role came in the Thin Man series, which was pivotal for her career, establishing her as a box-office star and “Queen of the Movies” by 1936. She dedicated time to supporting the war effort during WWII but returned successfully to Hollywood post-war.
Death and Legacy
Myrna Loy passed away on December 14, 1993, in New York City from complications due to surgery. Throughout her career, she starred in an impressive 129 films and left a lasting legacy as one of Hollywood’s most beloved actresses. She is remembered for her charm, talent, and ability to adapt to changing movie styles over the decades.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Best Years of Our Lives | 1946-12-25 | Milly Stephenson |
| The Thin Man | 1934-05-25 | Nora Charles |
| Cheaper by the Dozen | 1950-03-31 | Lillian Gilbreth |
| Midnight Lace | 1960-10-13 | Aunt Bea |
| The Mask of Fu Manchu | 1932-11-05 | Fah Lo See |
| The Ambassador’s Daughter | 1956-07-26 | Mrs. Cartwright |
| The Unseen Enemy | 1926-08-06 | Mai – Lady in Waiting |
| Airport 1975 | 1974-10-18 | Mrs. Devaney |
| Love Crazy | 1941-05-23 | Susan Ireland |
| Columbo | 1971-09-15 | Lizzi Fielding |