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Viola DanaAmerican film actress who appeared in films during the silent film era.
Date of Birth: 26.06.1897
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Viola Dana: A Life in Silent Film
- Film Debut and Edison Studios
- Marriage to John Collins
- Tragedy and Romance
- Success in the 1920s
- Decline and Retirement
- Rediscovery and Legacy
Viola Dana: A Life in Silent Film
Early Years and Theatrical CareerViola Dana was born Viola Flugrath on June 26, 1897, in Brooklyn, New York. She began acting in theater at a young age, and her most notable stage appearance was in the play "Poor Little Rich Girl," which was later adapted into a film in 1917 starring Mary Pickford.
Film Debut and Edison Studios
At the age of thirteen, Dana made her film debut in a small role in the short film "A Christmas Carol" (1910). She joined Edison Studios in 1914 and landed her first starring role in the drama "Molly Make-Believe" (1914).
Marriage to John Collins
Dana met renowned Edison Studios director John Collins and married him in 1915. Collins starred Dana in twenty-six films during their three-year marriage, including "Children of Eve" (1915), "The Cry of the Cossack" (1916), and "Tattered Threads" (1917).
Tragedy and Romance
After Collins' untimely death from pneumonia in 1918, Dana had a brief romance with actor Omar Locklear. However, he tragically died in a plane crash while filming in 1920.
Success in the 1920s
Despite these setbacks, Dana continued her acting career and enjoyed popularity during the 1920s. She signed with Metro Pictures and starred in over a hundred films.
Decline and Retirement
With the advent of sound film, Dana's star began to fade. Studio executives deemed her voice unsuitable for her appearance, like many silent film actresses. She retired from acting in 1929.
Rediscovery and Legacy
In the mid-1970s, Dana's old Edison Studios films were rediscovered, leading to a brief resurgence in public appearances and interviews. She died of a heart attack on July 3, 1987, at the age of ninety. Viola Dana was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
