Maggie Mae Hathaway, a multifaceted individual, left an indelible mark on Hollywood with her numerous talents and captivating presence. While she may not be as widely recognized as Lena Horne or Dorothy Dandridge, her contributions to the entertainment industry and her role in breaking down barriers for black actors and actresses are undeniable.
On screen, Maggie typically portrayed sassy, witty, and sexy characters, showcasing her undeniable spunk and charisma. In her small but memorable roles, she shone brightly, leaving a lasting impression on audiences. Her notable appearances include a maid in the Warner Brothers musical short "Quiet, Please!", where she performed a sizzling jitterbug dance, as well as a dancer in The Marx Brothers' "At The Circus". She also appeared in "Cabin In The Sky", where her sultry walk into the cabaret scene remains memorable. Additionally, she served as a stand-in for Lena Horne in "Stormy Weather". Regardless of the size of her role, Maggie's presence was always magnetic, drawing viewers in with her captivating energy.
Beyond her on-screen accomplishments, Maggie was a talented singer who wrote and recorded blues and jazz records in the late 1940s.
However, Maggie's most enduring legacy may be her tireless activism for civil and equal rights. She fought tirelessly for the rights and inclusion of people of color, not only in the entertainment industry but also in the community and in sports, specifically golf. Her dedication to this cause is exemplified by the golf course named in her honor in Los Angeles, California. Maggie was also the founder of the NAACP Image Awards and a writer for the Los Angeles Sentinel, further solidifying her impact on the community.
