Una Merkel embarked on a cinematic journey as a stand-in for the esteemed Lillian Gish in the 1928 film, The Wind. Prior to her return to the big screen, she honed her craft on the Broadway stage. Her subsequent appearance in D.W. Griffith's 1930 production, Abraham Lincoln, marked a significant turning point in her career, as her comedic talents were finally recognized. Initially, she was often cast in supporting roles as the heroine's down-to-earth confidante, however, her distinct Southern drawl and striking peroxide blond locks allowed her to shine in a memorable performance as a sassy, yet not overly intelligent, chorus girl in the 1933 film, 42nd Street. Perhaps Una Merkel is most fondly remembered for her intense, hair-pulling confrontation with the legendary Marlene Dietrich in the 1939 western, Destry Rides Again. Notably, in 1962, she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her captivating performance in Summer and Smoke, released in 1961.
Una Merkel
Deceased · Born: Dec 10, 1903 · Died: Jan 2, 1986
