How Old Is Mary Nolan
Mary Nolan, born Mariam Imogene Robertson on December 18, 1902 (some sources state 1905), was an American stage and film actress, singer, and dancer. She began her career as a Ziegfeld girl in the 1920s and later appeared in 17 German films from 1925 to 1927. Upon her return to the United States, she adopted the stage name Mary Nolan and signed with Universal Pictures. However, her career began to decline due to drug abuse and reputation for being temperamental. She made her final film appearance in 1933 and died in 1948 at the age of 45.
Explore the intriguing story of Mary Nolan as we delve into her early life, career, Hollywood years, personal life, and lasting legacy.
Early Life and Career
Mary Nolan, born in Louisville, Kentucky, on December 18, 1902, was one of five children. She began her career as a model and was discovered by Florenz Ziegfeld, who hired her as a dancer in his Ziegfeld Follies.
During her time in the Follies, she became involved in a scandalous affair with comedian Frank Tinney, which ultimately led to her firing. To avoid the negative attention and fallout from the scandal, Nolan made the bold decision to flee to Germany where she quickly gained fame starring in several films under the stage name Imogene Robertson.
Hollywood Years and Decline
After returning to the United States, Mary Nolan signed with Universal Pictures in 1927. She had some success in her early films, but her career took a downward turn due to her drug abuse and reputation for being difficult to work with. As a result, Universal bought out her contract, and she found it challenging to secure roles with major studios.
However, Nolan didn’t give up on her passion for acting and continued to pursue her career in the film industry. She began appearing in supporting roles in low-budget films produced by independent studios. Despite the limitations of the projects, she showcased her talent and commitment to the craft.
Unfortunately, these supporting roles in low-budget films turned out to be the final chapters of Nolan’s film career. Her final film appearance took place in 1933, marking the end of an era for this once-promising actress.
Personal Life and Legacy
Mary Nolan was married once to stockbroker Wallace T. McCreary in 1931. However, their marriage faced financial difficulties, leading them to open a dress shop in Beverly Hills. Unfortunately, Mary’s life took a tragic turn as she battled ongoing health issues and succumbed to heroin addiction, which resulted in frequent hospitalizations.
Despite her struggles, Mary made an attempt to revive her acting career and returned to Hollywood in 1939. However, she lived in obscurity for the remainder of her years, unable to regain the prominence she once had in the film industry.
Tragically, Mary Nolan’s life came to a premature end in 1948 at the age of 45. She passed away due to a barbiturate overdose, marking a heartbreaking conclusion to her tumultuous journey. Today, she is remembered as a legendary actress who faced both personal and professional challenges, leaving behind a profound legacy in Hollywood.