Nydia Westman was an American actress known for her roles in The Ghost and Mr. Chicken, The Cat and the Canary, and The Late George Apley. Born on February 19, 1902, in New York City, she made a significant impact in both theater and films throughout her career.
Personal and Family Life
Nydia was born to vaudevillian parents, actor-composer Theodore Westman and actress-playwright Lily Wren. She had a younger brother, Theodore Westman Jr., who was also in the acting field but died young in 1927. Nydia was married to Robert Sparks from 1930 until their divorce in 1937, and they had one child together, Kate Williamson.
Career Highlights
Nydia began her career in the theater, appearing in various productions and making her Broadway debut in 1924. With the rise of sound in films, she transitioned to cinema, starring in numerous comedies and dramas. Nydia became well-known for her character roles in films and later focused on TV and stage work, earning an Obie Award for her performance in Samuel Beckett’s Endgame.
Death and Legacy
Nydia Westman passed away on May 23, 1970, in Burbank, California, due to cancer. She left behind a legacy as a beloved character actress who provided charm and humor in her performances, remembered fondly by audiences.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Ghost & Mr. Chicken | 1966-01-20 | Mrs. Cobb |
| The Velvet Touch | 1948-07-13 | Susan Crane |
| Little Women | 1933-11-24 | Mamie |
| The Cat and the Canary | 1939-10-27 | Cicily |
| One Night of Love | 1934-07-16 | Muriel |
| The Swinger | 1966-11-13 | Aunt Cora |
| The Gorgeous Hussy | 1936-08-28 | Maybelle |
| Bulldog Drummond’s Peril | 1938-03-18 | Gwen Longworth |
| Manhattan Tower | 1932-12-01 | Miss Wood |
| When Tomorrow Comes | 1939-08-11 | Lulu |
| Pennies from Heaven | 1936-11-25 | Slavey – Hotel Maid |
| Sweat Adeline | 1934-12-29 | Nellie |
| The Remarkable Andrew | 1942-03-05 | Miss Van Buren |
| Three Live Ghosts | 1936-01-10 | Peggy ‘Peg’ Woofers |
| The Addams Family | 1964-09-18 | Miss Morrison |