Mary Pickford
Mary Pickford
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Gladys Louise Smith was born on April 8, 1892, but she would later adopt the stage name Mary Pickford, a nod to her family's ancestral home of Scotland. This talented actress would become one of the most beloved figures in Hollywood's Golden Age.
Birth and Death Dates
April 8, 1892 – June 29, 1979
Mary Pickford lived a long and storied life, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of cinema.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Canadian-American
Actress, Producer, Screenwriter
Pickford's journey to stardom began on the Canadian stage before she made her way to New York City and eventually Hollywood. She would go on to become one of the most successful actresses and producers of her time, known for her versatility and dedication to her craft.
Early Life and Background
Born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, Gladys Louise Smith was the sixth of ten children born to a family of modest means. Her early life was marked by tragedy when she lost both parents at a young age, leading her to be raised by relatives in a series of boarding houses. Despite these challenges, Pickford's natural charm and charisma would eventually propel her towards stardom.
Major Accomplishments
Pickford's contributions to the film industry cannot be overstated. She was not only an accomplished actress but also a pioneering producer and screenwriter. Her company, Mary Pickford Productions, produced some of her most iconic films, including _Sparrows_ (1926) and _Tess of the Storm Country_ (1914). Her collaborations with other industry giants like D.W. Griffith and Douglas Fairbanks helped shape the very fabric of Hollywood's early years.
Notable Works or Actions
Pickford's filmography is impressive, to say the least. Some of her most notable works include:
_Sparrows_ (1926) – a drama that cemented Pickford's reputation as a fearless and innovative actress
_Tess of the Storm Country_ (1914) – an early silent film that showcased Pickford's acting range and versatility
* _Coquette_ (1929) – a romantic drama for which Pickford won her first Academy Award
Pickford was also a trailblazer in terms of women's rights. She was one of the founding members of the Hollywood Women's Club, an organization dedicated to promoting female empowerment within the film industry.
Impact and Legacy
Mary Pickford's impact on Hollywood extends far beyond her impressive filmography. Her pioneering work as a producer and screenwriter paved the way for future generations of women in the industry. She was one of the first stars to be given a contract by a major studio, paving the way for the concept of stardom as we know it today.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Mary Pickford's legacy is complex and multifaceted. Her dedication to her craft and her tireless advocacy on behalf of women in the film industry have made her a beloved figure among cinema enthusiasts worldwide. As one of the most iconic stars of Hollywood's Golden Age, she continues to inspire new generations with her remarkable story of perseverance and determination.
Pickford's influence can be seen in many areas of modern entertainment, from the creation of the Academy Awards (of which she was one of the founders) to the ongoing struggle for women's equality within the film industry. Her memory serves as a testament to the enduring power of talent, hard work, and courage in the face of adversity.
Quotes by Mary Pickford
One of the great penalties those of us who live our lives in full view of the public must pay is the loss of that most cherished birthright of man’s, privacy.
I think Oscar Wilde wrote a poem about a robin who loved a white rose. He loved it so much that he pierced his breast and let his heart’s blood turn the white rose red. Maybe this sounds very sentimental, but for anybody who has loved a career as much as I’ve loved mine, there can be no short cuts.
You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing that we call ‘failure’ is not the falling down, but the staying down.
Today is a new day. You will get out of it just what you put into it...If you have made mistakes, even serious mistakes, there is always another chance for you. And supposing you have tried and failed again and again, you may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing that we call failure is not the falling down, but the staying down.
If you have made mistakes, there is always another chance for you. You can start over any moment you choose.
I think Oscar Wilde wrote a poem about a robin who loved a white rose. He loved it so much that he pierced his breast and let his heart's blood turn the white rose red. Maybe this sounds very sentimental, but for anybody who has loved a career as much as I've loved mine, there can be no short cuts.
