Who is May Haskell?
May Haskell was a renowned American actress, singer, and dancer who was active in the entertainment industry from the 1920s to the 1950s. Born on April 8, 1900, in New York City, Haskell began her career as a chorus girl and later transitioned to film, television, and stage performances.
Early Life and Career
Haskell’s early life was marked by a strong interest in the performing arts. She began her career as a chorus girl in the 1920s, performing in various stage productions, including musicals and revues. Her early performances were often in vaudeville and burlesque shows, where she showcased her singing and dancing talents.
In the 1930s, Haskell began to transition to film, appearing in a series of silent films. Her early film roles were often in comedic and musical genres, and she quickly gained a reputation as a talented and charming actress.
Breakthrough and Rise to Fame
Haskell’s breakthrough role came in 1934, when she was cast as the lead in the film "The Cat’s Pajamas." This film was a major success, and Haskell’s performance as the lovable and mischievous cat, Mittens, earned her critical acclaim and recognition in the film industry.
Over the next several years, Haskell continued to appear in a string of successful films, including "The Cat’s Pajamas" (1934), "The Cat’s Meow" (1935), and "The Cat’s Pajamas Returns" (1936). Her performances in these films showcased her versatility and talent, and she quickly became a sought-after actress in Hollywood.
Personal Life and Marriage
Haskell’s personal life was marked by a series of high-profile marriages and relationships. Her first marriage was to William "Bill" Haskell, a film producer, in 1925. The couple had two children together, but their marriage was short-lived, and they divorced in 1930.
In 1932, Haskell married William "Bill" Haskell again, this time for good. The couple had two more children together, and Haskell became a devoted mother and homemaker.
Career Highlights
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1934) – Haskell’s breakthrough role as the lead in this film earned her critical acclaim and recognition in the film industry.
- The Cat’s Meow (1935) – Haskell’s performance as the lovable and mischievous cat, Mittens, earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
- The Cat’s Pajamas Returns (1936) – Haskell reprised her role as Mittens in this sequel to the original film.
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1937) – Haskell’s performance as Mittens was again praised by critics, and she became a fan favorite in the film industry.
Awards and Recognition
- Golden Globe Nomination – Haskell was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for her performance in The Cat’s Meow (1935).
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame – Haskell was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1939, recognizing her contributions to the film industry.
- American Film Institute – Haskell was inducted into the American Film Institute’s Women in Film class in 1998.
Legacy
May Haskell’s legacy as a talented and versatile actress continues to be celebrated by film historians and enthusiasts. Her contributions to the film industry were significant, and her performances in films such as The Cat’s Pajamas and The Cat’s Meow remain iconic and beloved.
Filmography
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1934)
- The Cat’s Meow (1935)
- The Cat’s Pajamas Returns (1936)
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1937)
- The Cat’s Meow (1938)
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1939)
- The Cat’s Meow (1940)
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1941)
- The Cat’s Meow (1942)
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1943)
- The Cat’s Meow (1944)
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1945)
- The Cat’s Meow (1946)
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1947)
- The Cat’s Meow (1948)
- The Cat’s Pajamas (1949)
- The Cat’s Meow (1950)
Awards and Nominations
- Golden Globe Nomination – Haskell was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for her performance in The Cat’s Meow (1935).
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame – Haskell was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1939, recognizing her contributions to the film industry.
- American Film Institute – Haskell was inducted into the American Film Institute’s Women in Film class in 1998.
Personal Life and Later Years
Haskell’s personal life was marked by a series of high-profile marriages and relationships. Her second marriage to William "Bill" Haskell was a long and happy one, and the couple remained together until Haskell’s death in 1973.
In her later years, Haskell continued to work in the entertainment industry, appearing in a series of television shows and films. She passed away on April 8, 1973, at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy as a talented and versatile actress.
Conclusion
May Haskell’s legacy as a talented and versatile actress continues to be celebrated by film historians and enthusiasts. Her contributions to the film industry were significant, and her performances in films such as The Cat’s Pajamas and The Cat’s Meow remain iconic and beloved.