Wanda Hawley was an American actress who is best known for her roles in silent films, including “The Affairs of Anatol,” “Smouldering Fires,” and “Mr. Fix-It.”
Personal and Family Life
Born on July 30, 1895, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Wanda Hawley was originally named Selma Wanda Pittack. Throughout her life, she was married three times, with her most notable marriage being to Justus Livingston Richey, an insurance salesman, from 1938 until his death in 1957. She pursued various hobbies, including composing music, swimming, and playing the piano.
Career
Wanda became a well-loved leading lady during the silent film era, often featured in romantic comedies and dramas. She initially gained fame in films directed by Cecil B. DeMille and later worked with Sam Wood. However, her career faced challenges, including a contract dispute with Paramount in 1923, which affected her popularity and led her to switch studios frequently, ultimately resulting in a decline in her fame.
Death and Legacy
Wanda Hawley passed away on March 18, 1963, in Los Angeles, California. Despite her eventual decline in the film industry, she is remembered for her contributions to silent cinema and the charm she brought to her roles as a leading lady. Her early works still hold a place in the hearts of classic film enthusiasts.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Affairs of Anatol | 1921-09-25 | Emilie Dixon |
| Smouldering Fires | 1925-01-18 | Lucy |
| Mr. Fix-It | 1918-04-15 | Mary McCullough |
| A Trip to Paramountown | 1922-07-10 | Self |
| Brass Commandments | 1923-01-28 | Gloria Hallowell |
| The Young Rajah | 1922-11-11 | Molly Cabot |
| Cupid’s Round Up | 1918-01-13 | Helen Baldwin |
| Old Wives for New | 1918-05-18 | Sophy in Prologue |
| Greased Lightning | 1919-04-27 | Alice Flint |
| For Better, for Worse | 1919-04-26 | Betty Hoyt |
| The Eyes of the Totem | 1927-05-15 | Mariam Hardy |
| The Love Charm | 1921-11-01 | Ruth Sheldon |
| Everywoman | 1919-12-30 | Beauty |
| Bobbed Hair | 1922-01-01 | Polly Heath |
| Hearts and Spangles | 1926-06-15 | Peg Palmer |