Myrtle Gonzalez

Myrtle Gonzalez was an American actress who is best known for The Level, The Little Sheriff, and The Chalice of Courage. Born on September 28, 1891, in Los Angeles, California, she had a brief but notable career in the early film industry. She passed away on October 22, 1918, in Los Angeles, California.

Personal and Family Life

Myrtle Gonzalez was the daughter of Manuel George Gonzalez, a grocer, and Lillian L. Cook, a former opera singer. She had two siblings, Stella and Manuel Jr. Myrtle was married twice; first to J. Parks Jones, with whom she had a son, James Parks Jones, Jr., and later to Universal actor and director Allen Watt. Her marriage to Watt occurred on December 1, 1917, but was short-lived due to her declining health.

Career

Myrtle began her career as a singing soprano, performing in local concerts, benefits, and church choirs in Los Angeles. She made her film debut in 1914 and went on to appear in multiple silent films throughout the 1910s, including various notable roles that showcased her acting talent. Despite her promising start in Hollywood, her career was cut short by her untimely death.

Death and Legacy

Myrtle Gonzalez died on October 22, 1918, likely as a victim of the Spanish flu pandemic and a heart ailment. Her passing marked the end of a brief but impactful life in the early film era. Though she left the screen at a young age, she is remembered for her contributions to silent cinema and her connection to the beginnings of Hollywood.

Filmography