Rita Carewe, born Violette Fox on September 9, 1909, in the bustling metropolis of New York City, was destined for a life in the spotlight. Her father, Edwin Carewe, a renowned Native American director, played a pivotal role in her early years, relocating the family to Hollywood in 1914 after being hired by United Artists. As Rita entered her teenage years, her father leveraged his industry connections to secure a contract for her with First National, paving the way for her film debut in the 1925 silent comedy Joanna.
Rita's early career was marked by a string of successful films, including High Steppers and Resurrection, both directed by her father. She quickly gained a reputation for her striking appearance, meticulously polishing her legs to create the illusion of wearing silk stockings. In 1927, she was selected as a WAMPAS Baby Star, joining an elite group of talented young actresses that included Sally Rand and Adamae Vaughn.
Rita's career aspirations were temporarily derailed when she auditioned for the role of Lorelei Lee in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, only to be outshone by Ruth Taylor. Undeterred, she continued to work in the film industry, albeit with diminishing success. Her final film, the 1930 comedy Radio Kisses, starring alongside Marjorie Beebe, marked the end of her acting career.
Rita's personal life was marked by two marriages, first to real estate dealer Tom McDonald, whom she briefly engaged to before calling off the wedding. Her second marriage, to actor LeRoy Mason in 1928, ended in divorce in 1936 after he struggled with excessive drinking and made threatening gestures towards her. The couple remained childless throughout their relationship.
Following her acting days, Rita transitioned to a career in sales, working as a saleswoman in a dress shop. Tragedy struck in 1954 when she was diagnosed with mouth cancer. Rita's health rapidly declined, and she passed away on October 22, 1955, at the young age of forty-six. Her ashes were cremated and buried in an unmarked grave at Angelus Rosedale Cemetery in Los Angeles, California, bringing an end to her tumultuous life.
