Martita Hunt, a renowned British character actress, was born on a ranch in Argentina to British parents. At the tender age of 10, she relocated with her family to England for her formal education, which marked the beginning of her remarkable journey in the world of theatre. As she entered her early twenties, Martita made her stage debut with the Liverpool Repertory Theatre, gradually growing in stature as a dramatic actress with the Old Vic.
Her impressive performances on stage and screen soon caught the attention of filmmakers, and she expanded her horizons to include cinema in the 1930s. With her striking appearance, reminiscent of Edna May Oliver, Martita effortlessly stole scenes in several notable British films, such as When Knights Were Bold (1936),Nine Days a Queen (1936),The Mill on the Floss (1936),and The Wicked Lady (1945).
However, it was her unforgettable portrayal of the eccentric and reclusive Miss Havisham in the timeless period piece Great Expectations (1946) that earned her widespread recognition and caught the attention of Hollywood. Following this, she went on to secure more captivating roles, both regal and ravaged, in films such as Anastasia (1956),Becket (1964),and The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964).
In 1949, Martita won a prestigious Broadway Tony award for her outstanding performance in "The Madwoman of Chaillot". Throughout her illustrious career, she consistently demonstrated her versatility as an actress, effortlessly transitioning between roles that showcased her remarkable range.
Tragically, Martita Hunt passed away at the age of 69 due to natural causes in London, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances that continue to captivate audiences to this day.
