Written by: Grace Lee

Phyllis Thaxter: A Legendary Actress and Unwavering Presence on Screen

Known for her captivating performances in film and television, Phyllis Thaxter is an American actress who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. She is best remembered for her iconic roles as Ellen Lawson in the 1944 war drama Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo and as Martha Kent, the adoptive mother of Superman, in the 1978 blockbuster film.

Early Life and Career

Phyllis St. Felix Thaxter was born on November 20, 1919, in Portland, Maine, to Phyllis (née Schuyler) Thaxter, a former actress, and Sidney St. Felix Thaxter, who later served as a Justice of the Maine Supreme Court. Her family's strong theatrical roots inspired her to pursue a career in acting. Thaxter's siblings, Sidney Thaxter and Hildegarde Schuyler Thaxter Niss Gignoux, also followed in their parents' footsteps.

Rise to Stardom

Before making her film debut, Thaxter honed her craft on the stage, replacing Dorothy McGuire in the Broadway play Claudia. In 1944, she signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) and made her movie debut opposite Van Johnson in Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo. Her performance earned her critical acclaim and recognition in the film industry.

Notable Film Roles

• Bewitched (1945): Thaxter played Joan Alris Ellis, a woman with a split personality, in this classic film noir.
• Blood on the Moon (1948): She portrayed a cattle owner's daughter, lending her talent to this Western drama.
• The World of Henry Orient (1964): Thaxter appeared in this comedy-drama, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Television Appearances

Throughout her career, Thaxter made notable appearances in various television series, including:

• Rawhide (1961): She played Pauline Cushman in the episode "The Blue Spy".
• The Alfred Hitchcock Hour (1963): Thaxter portrayed a paralyzed wife being terrorized by her husband in the episode "The Long Silence".
• Wagon Train: She appeared in two episodes, "The Christine Elliott Story" and "The Vivian Carter Story".
• The Twilight Zone (1962): Thaxter starred in the episode "Young Man's Fancy".
• Alfred Hitchcock Presents: She made multiple appearances in this popular anthology series.

Awards and Legacy

Phyllis Thaxter's contributions to the film and television industry have been recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Her iconic performances continue to inspire new generations of actors and actresses, solidifying her place as a legendary figure in American entertainment.

By embracing a wide range of roles and genres, Thaxter built a remarkable career that spanned over four decades. Her dedication to her craft and her unwavering presence on screen have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.