What is mary wickes?

Mary Wickes: A Character Actress Extraordinaire

Mary Wickes (born Mary Isabella Wickenhauser; March 13, 1910 – October 25, 1995) was a prominent American actress, known for her distinctive voice, comedic timing, and ability to portray memorable character roles. Her career spanned over six decades, including work on stage, film, television, and radio.

Early Life and Career Beginnings:

  • Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Wickes began acting at a young age. She studied drama at Washington University in St. Louis.
  • Her early career focused on stage work, and she made her Broadway debut in The Man Who Came to Dinner in 1939.

Film and Television Roles:

  • Wickes transitioned to film in the early 1940s, quickly establishing herself as a reliable and humorous character actress.
  • Some of her most recognizable film roles include:
    • Miss Preen in The Man Who Came to Dinner (1942) (reprising her Broadway role)
    • Sister Michael in Sister Act (1992) and Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993). This came later in her career, when she was already in her 80's.
    • Thelma Ritter stand-in (and uncredited performance) in Alfred Hitchcock's Rear Window (1954)
    • Aunt March in Little Women (1994) (posthumously)
  • She was a familiar face on television, appearing in numerous series, including I Love Lucy, Dennis the Menace, Bewitched, and The Waltons. She played recurring roles in many shows.

Voice Acting:

  • Wickes also had a successful career as a voice actress.
  • She voiced the gargoyle Laverne in Disney's The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996), which was released posthumously.

Legacy:

  • Mary Wickes https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Mary%20Wickes was known for her dedication to her craft and her ability to bring humor and heart to her roles.
  • She was a versatile performer who could play a wide range of characters, from stern and disapproving to warm and lovable.
  • Her contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated.

Philanthropy:

  • Wickes was a strong advocate for animal rights. She left a substantial portion of her estate to animal welfare organizations.
  • She also established a scholarship at Washington University for students pursuing the performing arts.