A character actress with a distinctive voice and wit, best known for her memorable supporting roles in classic films and TV shows, often playing wise and witty women.
Known for her wit, sass, and sharp tongue, Mary Wickes was the go-to actress for playing prim, professional women who always had a clever quip up her sleeve. With a career spanning over five decades, Wickes left an indelible mark on Hollywood, endearing herself to audiences with her unique blend of humor, intelligence, and charm.
Born Mary Isabella Wickenhauser on June 13, 1910, in St. Louis, Missouri, Wickes was raised in a family of theater enthusiasts. Her parents, Frank and Mary, instilled in her a love for the performing arts, taking her to plays and musicals from a young age.
A brilliant student, Wickes skipped two grades and graduated from Beaumont High School at 16. She went on to attend Washington University in St. Louis, where she earned a double major in English literature and political science, and was initiated into the prestigious Mortar Board in 1929.
Wickes' early career was marked by her involvement with the Orson Welles troupe, including her Broadway debut in Marc Connelly's The Farmer Takes a Wife in 1934, alongside Henry Fonda. She soon transitioned to film, appearing in Welles' Too Much Johnson in 1938.
Her breakthrough role came in 1942, when she played Nurse Preen in the film adaptation of The Man Who Came to Dinner, starring Bette Davis. Wickes' sharp wit and sassy demeanor stole the show, earning her critical acclaim and recognition in Hollywood.
Wickes' unique talent for playing strong, smart, and sassy women made her a sought-after actress in Hollywood. She went on to appear in numerous films and television shows, including Now, Voyager (1942), June Bride (1948), and The Decoy (1965), often alongside her dear friend and collaborator, Bette Davis.
With her towering height of 5'10" and distinctive voice, Wickes became a familiar face in Hollywood, known for her ability to bring depth and nuance to even the smallest of roles.
Throughout her career, Wickes earned numerous award nominations, including an Emmy nomination for her work on the TV series Dennis the Menace in 1960. She was also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.
Mary Wickes' legacy extends far beyond her impressive body of work. She was a trailblazer for women in comedy, paving the way for future generations of female comedians and actresses.
With her sharp wit, quick tongue, and infectious charm, Wickes left an indelible mark on Hollywood, earning her place as one of the most beloved and respected actresses of her time.
Mary Wickes passed away on October 22, 1995, but her spirit lives on through her remarkable body of work, inspiring generations of comedians, actresses, and audiences alike.
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