Evelyn Brent

Evelyn Brent was an American film and stage actress.  She was born in Tampa, Florida in 1895 and was known as Betty. When she was age 10, her mother died, leaving her father Arthur to raise her alone.  She moved to New York City as a teenager and started to train as a teacher, however her good looks soon brought modelling jobs that led to an opportunity to become involved in movies.

The tiny brunette wowed fans and critics made more than two dozen silent films. She also created a sensation in Paramount’s first dialogue film, and she then went on to play major roles in several sound features.  However, due to a complicated story of bad luck, betrayal and poor decisions, Brent hit a quick downward spiral ending in bankruptcy and occasional work as an extra. After performing in more than 120 films, she retired from acting in 1950.

Her dreamy, half lidded beauty and draped, fluid style - with a penchant for feathers and lame - take my breath…