Tandra Quinn was an American actress who is best known for Mesa of Lost Women, The Neanderthal Man, and Problem Girls. Born as Derline Jeanette Smith on March 27, 1931, in Los Angeles, California, she had an active career in the film industry before her passing.
Personal and Family Life
Tandra Quinn was married to Herbert Smithson from 1954 until his death in 1995. The couple had two children together. In addition to her acting career, she had a keen interest in mining, which led her to move to Arizona and later Texas to work for a gold mining associate.
Career Highlights
Throughout her career, Tandra auditioned for various roles, including those in National Velvet and Captain from Castile, but did not secure those parts. She gained some early fame when she was named the “Perfect Baby of America” at a baby show in Los Angeles in August 1933. She also has part Romanian ancestry and was featured in Tom Weaver’s book “I Talked with a Zombie.”
Death and Legacy
Tandra Quinn passed away on October 21, 2016, in Panama City Beach, Florida, after a battle with cancer. Her contributions to the film industry, particularly in the early 1950s, remain part of her legacy as an actress.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Mesa of Lost Women | 1953-06-17 | Tarantella |
| The Neanderthal Man | 1953-06-19 | Celia |
| Problem Girls | 1953-04-07 | Judith |