Nina Quartero was an American actress who is best known for her roles in films like The Monkey’s Paw, Arizona, and The Eternal Woman. Born Gladys Quartararo on March 17, 1908, in New York City, she became a notable figure in early Hollywood.
Personal and Family Life
Nina Quartero was the youngest of seven children in her family. She began her acting career in a Brooklyn stock company as a teenager. Despite often being claimed to have Spanish heritage, she was actually of 100% Italian descent, with her parents hailing from Sicily. In her personal life, she had three marriages, with her third husband being William Spencer Hook, whom she married in 1944.
Career
Nina started her film career with director D.W. Griffith and appeared in several movies as an extra. She gained recognition for her role in the 1928 film The Red Mark, but personal struggles, including a nervous breakdown, complicated her career. Throughout her life, she took on various roles in films and signed a contract with Hal Roach, remaining active in the industry despite not achieving A-list status.
Death and Legacy
Nina Quartero passed away on November 23, 1985, in Woodland Hills, California, at the age of seventy-seven. Though she may not have reached the pinnacle of stardom, her contributions to early cinema remain a part of Hollywood’s rich history. Her performances showcased her versatility and adaptability, leaving a lasting impression on those who remember her work.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Man from Monterey | 1933-07-15 | Anita Garcia |
| Arizona | 1931-06-27 | Conchita |
| Golden Dawn | 1930-06-14 | Maid-in-Waiting |
| Men of the North | 1930-09-27 | Woolie-Woolie |
| The Monkey’s Paw | 1933-01-13 | Nura |
| A Lady Takes a Chance | 1943-08-19 | Carmencita |
| Wife vs. Secretary | 1936-02-28 | Cuban Telephone Operator (uncredited) |
| Green Hell | 1940-01-26 | Native Girl (uncredited) |
| The Eternal Woman | 1929-03-18 | Consuelo |
| Driftin’ Sands | 1928-01-01 | Nita Aliso |