Virginia Mayo American film actress Date of Birth: 30.11.1920 Country: USA

1. Biography of Virginia Mayo
2. Early Career and Entry into Hollywood
3. Rise to Fame and Hollywood Success
4. Personal Life and Legacy

Biography of Virginia Mayo

Virginia Mayo, born Virginia Clara Jones on November 30, 1920, in St. Louis, Missouri, USA, was an American film actress. She began her career in the 1940s and established herself as a prominent actress, particularly known for her roles in supporting roles. Mayo's peak of popularity came in the 1950s, after which she appeared less frequently on the big screen. However, she continued to act until 1997, often appearing in B-movies and westerns, although other actresses would perform her singing parts.

Early Career and Entry into Hollywood

Virginia Mayo started her career as a dancer in the municipal opera chorus of St. Louis. She caught the attention of vaudeville performer Andy Mayo, who invited her to join him in a dance number at the Jefferson Hotel. Inspired by her partner, she adopted the name Virginia Mayo and entered the world of vaudeville. Mayo frequently performed alongside Eddie Cantor, including in the Broadway musical "Banjo Eyes" in 1941. While continuing her dance career, Mayo signed a contract with Samuel Goldwyn and appeared in several of his films.

Rise to Fame and Hollywood Success

Mayo gained recognition for her role as Mary Derry in William Wyler's Oscar-winning war drama "The Best Years of Our Lives" in 1946. Her portrayal of the materialistic character who abandons her war veteran husband showcased her realistic acting skills. She further showcased her talent in the film-noir "White Heat" in 1949, playing the cold and calculating Verna Jarrett. During the height of her career in Hollywood, Mayo was primarily known for her classic beauty. She embodied the role of the alluring woman in films such as "Wonder Man" in 1945, "The Kid from Brooklyn" in 1946, and "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" in 1947. Rumors circulated in the late 1940s that the Sultan of Morocco had declared her beauty as evidence of the existence of God.

Personal Life and Legacy

In 1947, Virginia Mayo married actor Michael O'Shea, known for his roles in films such as "T-Men," "Ficciones," and "George Washington Slept Here." They had a daughter named Mary Catherine in 1953. Mayo and her family resided in Thousand Oaks, California, for several decades. Her husband passed away from a heart attack on December 4, 1973. Mayo herself died from natural causes on January 17, 2005, in Los Angeles. She received stars on both the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the St. Louis Walk of Fame in recognition of her contributions to the entertainment industry.