Vera Michelena was an American actor who is best known for Driftwood, The Devil’s Playground, and Animated Weekly, No. 7. She was born on June 16, 1884, in New York City, New York, and had a significant presence in early cinema.
Personal and Family Life
Vera Michelena was married three times. Her first marriage was to Paul Schindler from 1909 until their divorce in October 1917. She then married Harry Spingler in April 1918, but that marriage also ended in divorce on May 5, 1919. Her final husband was Fred Hillebrand, whom she remained married to until her death.
Career
Known for her roles in silent films, Vera Michelena starred in notable works such as Driftwood (1916) where she played Helen Warner, and The Devil’s Playground (1918) where she portrayed The Woman. She also appeared in a brief role as herself in Animated Weekly, No. 7 (1918). Her performances contributed to the early days of American cinema.
Death and Legacy
Vera Michelena passed away on August 26, 1961, in Bayside, New York. While her film career was primarily during the silent film era, her contributions to the industry remain recognized by film historians. She was also the sister of fellow actress Beatriz Michelena, further underscoring her family’s involvement in entertainment.
Filmography
| Title | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Driftwood | Helen Warner | 1916 |
| The Devil’s Playground | The Woman | 1918 |
| Animated Weekly, No. 7 | Self | 1918 |