Marie Prevost, a renowned Hollywood star, enjoyed a prolific career spanning over two decades, from 1917 to 1936. Her journey began as a "Bathing Beauty" in Mack Sennett's films, eventually transitioning to starring roles in numerous light comedies.
Born Mary Bickford Dunn in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada, Marie broke into the film industry at the tender age of 18, with her debut performance in Unto Those Who Sin (1916). Initially, she struggled to find consistent work, taking on odd jobs to make ends meet. However, her perseverance paid off when she landed a role in Secrets of a Beauty Parlor (1917),marking the beginning of her film career.
After a brief period of unemployment, Marie secured a part in Uncle Tom Without a Cabin (1919),which led to a series of roles in 1921 and 1922. Her talent soon caught the attention of movie moguls, and she became a sought-after actress, appearing in multiple films throughout the 1920s.
Marie's career flourished, with a focus on comedies, until 1933. However, the advent of sound technology presented a significant challenge, as her thick New England accent proved difficult to work with. Her frustration and disappointment led to a downward spiral of depression, which ultimately drove her to alcoholism.
Tragically, Marie's life came to a premature end on January 23, 1937, in Hollywood, at the age of 40. She was found dead in a dilapidated apartment, a victim of malnutrition and alcoholism. Her final film appearance, Ten Laps to Go (1936),was released posthumously in 1938.
