Theresa Harris was an American actress best known for her work in classic films such as Baby Face, Jezebel, and I Walked with a Zombie. She made a significant impact in Hollywood during a time when black actresses were often limited to stereotypical roles.
Personal and Family Life
Born on December 31, 1906, in Houston, Texas, Theresa Harris grew up in a time that presented many challenges for African Americans. She married John Robinson in 1933 but details about her family life remain scarce. Theresa was devoted to her craft, often pushing against the limitations imposed on her as a black actress in Hollywood.
Career Highlights
Harris’s film career spanned several decades, with her notable roles including strong performances in Baby Face and Professional Sweetheart. Despite frequently playing maid roles, she showcased her talent by infusing these characters with charisma and dignity. Theresa appeared in nearly 90 films, becoming known for her vibrant presence and ability to elevate the material around her.
Death and Legacy
Theresa Harris passed away on October 8, 1985, in Inglewood, California. Her legacy is shaped by her resilience against typecasting and her undeniable talent, which helped to pave the way for future generations of black actresses. Harris remains an inspiring figure, demonstrating that beauty and talent defy stereotypes.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Jezebel | 1938-03-26 | Zette |
| Miracle on 34th Street | 1947-06-04 | Cleo (uncredited) |
| I Walked with a Zombie | 1943-04-21 | Alma |
| Baby Face | 1933-07-13 | Chico |
| The File on Thelma Jordon | 1949-11-04 | Esther |
| The Velvet Touch | 1948-07-13 | Nancy |
| The Flame of New Orleans | 1941-07-07 | Clementine |
| Blossoms in the Dust | 1941-08-15 | Cleo |
| Our Wife | 1941-08-20 | Hattie |
| Buck Benny Rides Again | 1940-05-31 | Josephine |
| Smooth as Silk | 1946-02-01 | Louise |
| And Baby Makes Three | 1949-12-02 | Maid |
| Love Thy Neighbor | 1940-12-27 | Josephine |
| Mary Stevens, M.D. | 1933-07-22 | Andrews’ Maid Alice (uncredited) |
| Success at Any Price | 1934-03-16 | Marie |
| The Toy Wife | 1938-06-10 | ‘Pick’ |
| Neptune’s Daughter | 1949-06-10 | Matilda the Maid (uncredited) |