Born 1918 in Chatham, New York, American actress Marguerite Chapman was working as a telephone switchboard operator in White Plains, New York when her good looks brought about the opportunity to pursue a career in modeling. She signed with 20th Century Fox and moved to Hollywood in late 1939. She went on to be placed under contract with Warner Brothers in 1941, and then with Columbia from 1942 to 1948.
Chapman made her film debut in 1940, working for the next two years in small roles. In 1942, her big break came with Republic Pictures when she was cast in the leading female role in the twelve-part adventure film serial Spy Smasher, a production that has been ranked among the best serials ever made.
Chapman soon began receiving more leading roles and appeared opposite important stars such as Edward G. Robinson and George Sanders. With America’s entry in World War II, she entertained the troops, worked for the War bond drive and at the Hollywood Canteen. She also starred in the famous pro-Soviet war film Counter-Attack, released in 1945.
During the 1950s, Chapman performed mostly in secondary film roles, including The Seven Year Itch. In the early 1960s, she appeared on television shows including Rawhide, Perry Mason, and Four Star Playhouse. Outside of acting, she was a painter whose work was featured at the Beverly Hills Art League Gallery.
Chapman was reportedly asked to audition for the role of “Old Rose” Dawson-Calvert in the 1997 James Cameron epic Titanic but was prevented by poor health. She died in 1999, aged 81. For her contribution on television, she has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6284 Hollywood Boulevard.
Take a look at these gorgeous photos to see the beauty of young Marguerite Chapman in the 1940s.
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