A sultry film noir actress and singer, known for her distinctive voice and roles in classic movies like "Dead Reckoning" and "The Strange Love of Martha Ivers".
Lizabeth Scott, born Emma Matzo, was an American actress, singer, and model, known for her smoky voice and being tagged as the "most beautiful face of film noir" during the 1940s and 1950s. With a career spanning over two decades, she emerged as a leading lady in 19 out of her 22 films, leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape.
Emma Matzo, later known as Lizabeth Scott, was born on September 29, 1922, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, to Mary Penyak and John Matzo. She was the oldest of six children, and her family lived in the Pine Brook section of Scranton, where her father owned Matzo Market. Scott's love for music was fostered by her family, which influenced her distinctive voice.
Scott attended Marywood Seminary, a local Catholic girls' school, and later transferred to Scranton's Central High School, where she performed in several plays. After graduating, she worked with the Mae Desmond Players at a stock theater in nearby Newfoundland and later at the Barter Theatre in Abingdon, Virginia.
In 1939, Scott moved to New York City, where she became a model for the Walter Thornton agency. It was during this time that she adopted the stage name Lizabeth Scott, inspired by Maxwell Anderson's play "Mary of Scotland". Her modeling career led her to understudy the role of Sabina in the original Broadway and Boston stage productions of "The Skin of Our Teeth".
Scott's film debut came in 1946 with "The Strange Love of Martha Ivers", followed by "Dead Reckoning" in 1947, "Desert Fury" in 1947, and "Too Late for Tears" in 1949. Her smoky voice and sultry on-screen presence earned her a reputation as a film noir siren.
In addition to her film career, Scott appeared on television from the late 1940s to early 1970s, making guest appearances on shows such as "The Ford Television Theatre" and "The United States Steel Hour". She also had a successful radio career, performing in numerous dramas and comedies.
Scott's personal life was marked by her capitalistic views, influenced by her father's Republican leanings. She was known for her charitable work, particularly with the USO, entertaining troops during World War II and the Korean War.
Lizabeth Scott passed away on January 31, 2015, leaving behind a legacy of sultry performances and a unique voice that continues to captivate audiences. Her contributions to film noir and her influence on modern cinema remain unparalleled.
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Iconic actress and sultry-voiced siren, known for her captivating film noir performances and timeless Hollywood glamour.
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