Myrtle Gonzalez, an American actress, acted in 78 silent films from 1913 to 1917. Most were short films. She’s known as Hollywood’s first Latin and Hispanic movie star.
Indeed, despite her untimely passing in 1918, Myrtle Gonzalez’s legacy remains a significant part of the film industry’s history. In this article, we will get into various aspects of her life, including her early years, her filmography, and her financial success.
We’ll also discuss the circumstances of her passing, details about her parents, and her passion for doodling. So, continue reading to know more.
Who was Myrtle Gonzalez?
Myrtle Gonzalez took birth on September 28, 1891, in the bustling city of Los Angeles, California. She was a prominent actress whose career left a lasting mark on the world of entertainment. At the age of 22 in 1913, she ventured into the realm of acting, and from the outset, her talent and charisma set her on a path to stardom.
As she honed her craft, Myrtle Gonzalez’s popularity soared not only within the borders of the United States but also internationally. Her performances captivated audiences around the world. And, she became a symbol of success and inspiration in the film industry.
Myrtle Gonzalez’s journey in the world of cinema was nothing short of extraordinary. Her contributions to American and global cinema earned her a well-deserved place in history as a celebrated actress and a trailblazer in the early days of Hollywood.
Myrtle Gonzalez Biography
Her parents were Manuel George Gonzalez (born 1868) and Lillian L. Cook (born 1874), and she had two siblings: Stella M. Gonzalez (born 1892) and Manuel G. Gonzalez, Jr. (born 1898).
Her family heritage was diverse, with her paternal side hailing from a native Hispanic Californio background in Mexico, while her maternal grandparents were Irish. Her father worked as a retail grocer, and her mother had a background as an opera singer and popular vocalist.
Myrtle’s talents were evident from a young age, as she possessed both dramatic acting skills and a soprano singing voice. She frequently participated in local concerts, charity events, and church choirs.
Additionally, she began her acting career with juvenile roles on stage, sharing the stage with accomplished actresses like Fanny Davenport and Florence Stone.
Life Story
On December 1, 1917, Myrtle Gonzalez married actor and director Allen Watt (born 1885) in Los Angeles. Following their marriage, she decided to retire from her work in the film industry.
At that time, Allen Watt had previously served as an assistant director at Universal Studios, where they had met. However, shortly after their marriage, Allen Watt joined the U.S. Army, and Myrtle accompanied him to Camp Lewis in Washington state.
Unfortunately, the climate there did not agree with Myrtle’s fragile health. As a result, Captain Watt was placed on the retirement list so he could return with her to Southern California. He resumed his work at Universal Studios, transitioning into a directing role.
When did Myrtle Gonzalez Die?
Tragically, Myrtle Gonzalez’s life was cut short at the age of 27 in 1918. She succumbed to the influenza, a devastating global pandemic known as the Spanish flu that was sweeping the world at that time. Her untimely death sent shockwaves through the film industry, leaving her devoted fans grieving the loss of a beloved actress.
Wrapping Up
Myrtle Gonzalez, born in 1891, emerged as a promising actress in the early years of Hollywood. Her career began in 1913 at the age of 22, and she quickly rose to fame with her talent and charisma.
Despite her relatively short career in the film industry, her impact was profound. She remains an important figure in the history of Hollywood, remembered not only for her acting but also for the resilience and passion she brought to her craft.
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