39 Facts About Mary Pickford

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Mary Pickford, often called "America's Sweetheart," was a pioneer in the film industry. Her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a Hollywood legend is filled with fascinating details.

1. 01Born Gladys Louise Smith on April 8, 1892, in Toronto, Canada, she later adopted the stage name Mary Pickford.
2. 02Pickford began acting at the age of seven to help support her family after her father's death.
3. 03She made her Broadway debut in 1907 in the play "The Warrens of Virginia," produced by David Belasco.
4. 04In 1909, she transitioned to film, signing with the Biograph Company and working with director D.W. Griffith.

Rise to Stardom

Mary Pickford's talent and charisma quickly made her one of the most beloved actresses of her time. Her rise to stardom was meteoric.

5. 05By 1910, she had appeared in over 50 short films, establishing herself as a versatile actress.
6. 06Pickford's first feature film, "The Poor Little Rich Girl," released in 1917, was a massive success.
7. 07She became the first actress to have her name appear in the credits of a film, a significant milestone in the industry.
8. 08In 1916, she signed a contract with Famous Players-Lasky (later Paramount Pictures), earning $10,000 a week, an unprecedented salary at the time.

Business Ventures and Innovations

Mary Pickford was not just an actress; she was also a savvy businesswoman who made significant contributions to the film industry.

9. 09In 1919, she co-founded United Artists with Charlie Chaplin, D.W. Griffith, and Douglas Fairbanks, giving artists more control over their work.
10. 10Pickford was one of the first actresses to have her own production company, Mary Pickford Company.
11. 11She was a pioneer in negotiating profit-sharing deals, ensuring she received a percentage of her films' earnings.
12. 12Pickford was instrumental in the creation of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which hosts the Oscars.

Personal Life

Mary Pickford's personal life was as intriguing as her professional one. Her relationships and marriages were often in the public eye.

13. 13She married actor Owen Moore in 1911, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1920.
14. 14In 1920, she married Douglas Fairbanks, forming one of Hollywood's first power couples.
15. 15Pickford and Fairbanks lived in a mansion called Pickfair, which became a hub for Hollywood's elite.
16. 16After her divorce from Fairbanks in 1936, she married actor and bandleader Charles "Buddy" Rogers in 1937.

Later Career and Legacy

Even after retiring from acting, Mary Pickford continued to influence the film industry and left a lasting legacy.

17. 17Pickford retired from acting in 1933, with her last film being "Secrets."
18. 18She won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in the 1929 film "Coquette."
19. 19In 1976, she received an honorary Oscar for her contributions to the film industry.
20. 20Pickford was a philanthropist, donating to various causes, including the Motion Picture & Television Fund.

Interesting Tidbits

Mary Pickford's life was full of interesting and lesser-known facts that add depth to her story.

21. 21She was known for her iconic ringlet curls, which became her trademark hairstyle.
22. 22Pickford was a shrewd investor, amassing a significant fortune through real estate and other ventures.
23. 23She was an early advocate for actors' rights, fighting for better working conditions and pay.
24. 24Pickford was a voracious reader and had a vast personal library.

Cultural Impact

Mary Pickford's influence extended beyond the film industry, impacting culture and society in various ways.

25. 25She was one of the first celebrities to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
26. 26Pickford's image was used in various advertisements, making her one of the first celebrity endorsers.
27. 27She was a fashion icon, influencing women's hairstyles and clothing choices.
28. 28Pickford's films often addressed social issues, such as poverty and child welfare.

Final Years and Death

Mary Pickford's later years were marked by both triumphs and challenges, but her legacy remained intact.

29. 29She became a U.S. citizen in 1920, embracing her new country wholeheartedly.
30. 30Pickford published her autobiography, "Sunshine and Shadow," in 1955.
31. 31She struggled with alcoholism in her later years but sought treatment and recovery.
32. 32Pickford passed away on May 29, 1979, at the age of 87, leaving behind an indelible mark on Hollywood.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and quirky facts about Mary Pickford that showcase her unique personality and life.

33. 33She was only 5 feet tall but had a commanding presence on screen.
34. 34Pickford loved animals and had several pets, including dogs and birds.
35. 35She was a talented painter and enjoyed creating art in her spare time.
36. 36Pickford had a sweet tooth and was known to enjoy chocolate and candy.

Honors and Awards

Mary Pickford received numerous accolades throughout her career, cementing her status as a Hollywood legend.

37. 37She was awarded the first-ever star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.
38. 38Pickford was posthumously inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame in 1999.
39. 39In 1993, the Mary Pickford Foundation was established to support film preservation and education.

Mary Pickford's Lasting Legacy

Mary Pickford wasn't just a silent film star; she was a pioneer who shaped Hollywood. From co-founding United Artists to winning an Oscar, her impact on the film industry is undeniable. She broke barriers for women in film, both on-screen and behind the scenes. Her charitable work and business acumen made her a role model for future generations. Pickford's influence extends beyond her films, leaving a lasting mark on Hollywood's history. Her story reminds us of the power of determination and innovation. Whether you're a film buff or just curious about Hollywood's roots, Pickford's life offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of cinema. Her legacy continues to inspire, proving that true stars never fade.