Dolores Kostello A popular American actress of the early 20th century, who was called the Goddess of Silent Film. Date of Birth: 17.09.1903 Country: USA

1. Biography of Dolores Costello
2. Early Life and Career
3. Solo Career and Marriage
4. Challenges and Family
5. Later Years and Legacy

Biography of Dolores Costello

Dolores Costello (September 17, 1903 – March 1, 1979) was a popular American actress of the early 20th century, known as the Goddess of silent cinema. She was the mother of actor John Drew Barrymore and the grandmother of actress Drew Barrymore.

Early Life and Career

Dolores was born on September 17, 1903, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA, to actors Maurice and Mae Costello. From a young age, she appeared in films alongside her father and sister Helen. Her first on-screen appearance was at the age of six in the 1909 film "A Midsummer Night's Dream," based on Shakespeare's play. Dolores and Helen then made their debut on Broadway together. The audience embraced them, and soon Warner Bros. signed a contract with the sisters.

Solo Career and Marriage

Dolores' solo career began in the mid-1920s. In 1926, she was named one of the WAMPAS Baby Stars, recognizing her as a promising actress. That same year, she appeared alongside actor John Barrymore in the film adaptation of Herman Melville's "Moby Dick." A romance blossomed between the two during filming, and they married on November 24, 1928.

Challenges and Family

Dolores had a slight speech impediment, which initially posed difficulties in transitioning to sound cinema. However, she managed to overcome this defect within two years. In 1931, she gave birth to her daughter DeDe, and a year later, her son John Drew Barrymore, who would go on to become a renowned actor. As a mother, Dolores began to prioritize her family over her career and significantly reduced her on-screen appearances. In 1935, she divorced John Barrymore due to his alcoholism.

Later Years and Legacy

Dolores' final notable works were the drama film "Little Lord Fauntleroy" (1936), based on Frances Hodgson Burnett's novel, and Orson Welles' "The Magnificent Ambersons" (1942). In 1943, Dolores retired from acting and left the film industry. She passed away on March 1, 1979, due to emphysema. Dolores Costello left a lasting legacy as a popular actress of the silent film era and a respected member of Hollywood's golden age.