ZaSu Pitts American actress Date of Birth: 03.01.1894 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Silent Film Success
2. Leading Lady of the 1920s
3. Transition to Sound and Comedic Stardom
4. Broadway and Beyond
5. Television and Literary Success
6. Final Years and Legacy

Early Life and Silent Film Success

Born with the unusual name of Suzannah Pitts, the actress later adopted the stage name ZaSu Pitts, based on the names of her two maternal aunts, Eliza and Susan. Despite often being mispronounced as "Za-zoo" or "ZAY-zoo," Pitts herself clarified in her autobiography that the correct pronunciation was "SAY-zoo." Her acting debut came in 1915, and two years later, she was discovered by screenwriter Frances Marion, who cast her in the silent film "The Little Princess" (1917) alongside Mary Pickford.

Leading Lady of the 1920s

In the 1920s, Pitts became a leading lady in the films of Erich von Stroheim, starring in his masterpieces "Greed" (1924) and "The Wedding March" (1928). She also married actor Tom Gallery in 1920, and they appeared together in several early 1920s films. In 1922, they welcomed a daughter, Ann.

Transition to Sound and Comedic Stardom

In the early 1930s, Pitts successfully transitioned to sound films, appearing in numerous supporting roles throughout the decade, often alongside Thelma Todd. Her portrayals of eccentric, bewildered, and anxious characters became widely imitated in other films and cartoons.

Broadway and Beyond

During the 1940s, Pitts also performed in vaudeville and radio, showcasing her comedic talents alongside Bing Crosby and Al Jolson. In 1944, she made her Broadway debut in a play specifically written for her, garnering critical acclaim for her performances.

Television and Literary Success

In the early 1950s, Pitts began appearing on television, guest-starring in popular sitcoms of the era. Beyond acting, she pursued her passion for cooking and collecting candy recipes, which became the basis for her book "Candy Hits by ZaSu Pitts."

Final Years and Legacy

In the mid-1950s, Pitts was diagnosed with cancer, but she continued to work until the very end. She made cameos in "The Thrill of It All" (1963) with Doris Day and the iconic comedy "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" (1963), just days before her passing. ZaSu Pitts died of cancer in June 1963 at the age of 69. She was posthumously awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to cinema. In 1994, the US Postal Service honored her with a postage stamp bearing her image.