Marguerite Chapman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Marguerite Chapman
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Chapman in 1953
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| Born | March 9, 1918 Chatham, New York, U.S.
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| Died | August 31, 1999 (aged 81) Burbank, California, U.S.
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| Resting place | Holy Cross Cemetery, Culver City, California |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Years active | 1940–1977 |
| Spouse(s) |
G. Bentley Ryan
(m. 1948; div. 1950)Richard Bremerkamp
(m. 1964; div. 1972) |
Marguerite Chapman (born March 9, 1918, died August 31, 1999) was an American actress. She starred in many movies and TV shows.
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Early Life and Career Beginnings
Marguerite Chapman was born in Chatham, New York. Before becoming an actress, she worked as a telephone operator. Her striking looks led her to a modeling career. She joined the John Robert Powers Agency in New York City. Soon, her pictures appeared in advertisements all over the country.
While modeling, she heard that film producer Howard Hughes was looking for new talent. Marguerite bravely went to meet him without an appointment. She asked for a chance to be in his next movie. Hughes was impressed and gave her a screen test. Even though his movie was never made, he showed her screen test to other Hollywood studio bosses.
Moving to Hollywood
In late 1939, Marguerite signed a contract with 20th Century Fox and moved to Hollywood. She later worked for Warner Bros. in 1941. From 1942 to 1948, she was under contract with Columbia Pictures.
Film and Television Career
Marguerite Chapman made her first movie appearance in 1940. For the next two years, she had small parts in films. Her big break came in 1942 with Republic Pictures. She got the main female role in Spy Smasher. This was a 12-part adventure film series. Many people consider it one of the best film series ever made.
After Spy Smasher, Marguerite started getting more important roles. She acted alongside famous stars like Edward G. Robinson and George Sanders.
Supporting the War Effort
During World War II, Marguerite helped entertain American troops. She also worked to promote War bonds. These bonds helped the government pay for the war. She also spent time at the Hollywood Canteen. This was a special club where movie stars served food and entertained soldiers. In 1945, she starred in the movie Counter-Attack, which supported the Soviet Union during the war.
Later Roles
In 1950, Marguerite starred with war hero and actor Audie Murphy in the movie Kansas Raiders. She was the first actress to share a kiss with Audie Murphy on screen!
During the 1950s, Marguerite mostly played supporting roles in movies. One of her well-known films from this time was The Seven Year Itch. In the early 1960s, she appeared on popular TV shows. These included Rawhide, Perry Mason, and Four Star Playhouse.
Other Interests and Legacy
Outside of acting, Marguerite Chapman was a talented painter. Her artwork was shown at the Beverly Hills Art League Gallery.
She also cared about politics. She was a member of the Democratic Party. She supported Adlai Stevenson II in the 1952 presidential election.
Marguerite Chapman was reportedly asked to try out for the role of "Old Rose" in the 1997 movie Titanic. However, she was not well enough to do it.
For her work in television, Marguerite Chapman has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You can find it at 6284 Hollywood Boulevard.
Marguerite Chapman passed away on August 31, 1999, at the age of 81. She was buried in Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California.
Filmography
See also
In Spanish: Marguerite Chapman para niños
