Angela Greene
Actor
About Angela Greene
Angela Greene was an Irish-American actress who enjoyed a steady career in Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema. Born in Dublin, Ireland, she moved to the United States as a child and began her entertainment career as a model before transitioning to acting. She made her film debut in the late 1940s and quickly established herself as a reliable supporting actress in both films and television. Her appearance in 'At War with the Army' (1950) came early in her career and featured her alongside the comedy duo of Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, she appeared in numerous films and television series, often playing sophisticated women, femme fatales, or supportive wife roles. Her career spanned nearly two decades, during which she worked with major studios and appeared alongside Hollywood's leading stars. Despite never achieving top-billing status, she maintained a consistent presence in the entertainment industry until her health began to decline in the 1970s.
The Craft
On Screen
Angela Greene was known for her poised and sophisticated screen presence, often portraying elegant women of mystery or supportive wives. Her acting style was characterized by a naturalistic approach that fit well within the studio system of the 1950s. She had a particular talent for playing characters with underlying complexity, bringing depth to what might otherwise be straightforward supporting roles.
Milestones
- Film debut in 'The Big Clock' (1948)
- Appeared in Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis's first film together 'At War with the Army' (1950)
- Regular television appearances throughout the 1950s and 1960s
- Married to actor Peter Graves (1950-1958)
- Appeared in over 30 film and television productions
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Angela Greene represents the quintessential Hollywood supporting actress of the Golden Age, whose work, while not always recognized with major accolades, contributed significantly to the overall quality and texture of classic films and television. Her appearances alongside major stars like Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis placed her within the fabric of American entertainment history. As an Irish immigrant who found success in Hollywood, she also represents the international nature of Golden Age cinema and the opportunities it provided to performers from diverse backgrounds.
Lasting Legacy
Angela Greene's legacy lies in her body of work that spans the transition from the studio system to the television era. While she may not be a household name today, film historians and classic cinema enthusiasts recognize her contributions to numerous productions. Her marriage to Peter Graves also connects her to one of Hollywood's prominent acting families. Her performances continue to be preserved and appreciated through classic film channels and streaming services, ensuring that her work remains accessible to new generations of classic film enthusiasts.
Who They Inspired
As a supporting actress rather than a star, Angela Greene's influence was more subtle but significant. She demonstrated the importance of strong character actors in creating believable film worlds. Her ability to work across different media - from film noir to comedy to television drama - showed the versatility required of actors during her era. Her career path also illustrates the typical trajectory of many actresses of her generation who successfully transitioned from film to television as the industry evolved.
Off Screen
Angela Greene's personal life was marked by her high-profile marriage to actor Peter Graves, whom she met early in her career. The couple married in 1950 and had three children together before divorcing in 1958. In 1961, she married businessman Alvin L. Glickman, with whom she remained until her death. Her later years were affected by health issues, and she ultimately died from cancer at age 53. Despite her Irish birth, she spent most of her life in the United States and was fully integrated into Hollywood society.
Family
- Peter Graves (1950-1958)
- Alvin L. Glickman (1961-1978)
Did You Know?
- Born in Dublin, Ireland, but moved to the United States as a child
- Began her career as a model before transitioning to acting
- Appeared in Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis's first film together
- Was married to Peter Graves for eight years during the height of his early career
- Had three children with Peter Graves who all pursued careers in entertainment
- Made numerous appearances in popular television series of the 1950s and 1960s
- Died from cancer just 12 days before her 54th birthday
- Her filmography includes over 30 credited appearances
- Often played sophisticated or mysterious women in film noir productions
- Worked with major Hollywood studios including Paramount and Universal
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Angela Greene?
Angela Greene was an Irish-American actress who worked in Hollywood films and television from the late 1940s through the 1960s. She is best known for her supporting roles, including her appearance in 'At War with the Army' (1950) alongside Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, and her marriage to actor Peter Graves.
What films is Angela Greene best known for?
Angela Greene is best known for 'At War with the Army' (1950), 'The Big Clock' (1948), 'Red Light' (1949), and her numerous television appearances throughout the 1950s and 1960s. While never a leading lady, she appeared in over 30 productions during her career.
When was Angela Greene born and when did she die?
Angela Greene was born on February 24, 1924, in Dublin, Ireland, and died on February 12, 1978, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 53 from cancer.
What awards did Angela Greene win?
Angela Greene did not receive major industry awards or nominations during her career. Her contributions were primarily through her consistent work as a supporting actress in films and television rather than through formal recognition.
What was Angela Greene's acting style?
Angela Greene was known for her sophisticated and naturalistic acting style, often portraying elegant women, femme fatales, or supportive wives. She brought depth to supporting roles and worked effectively across different genres from film noir to comedy.
Was Angela Greene related to any other famous actors?
Yes, Angela Greene was married to actor Peter Graves (best known for 'Mission: Impossible') from 1950 to 1958. They had three children together, some of whom also pursued careers in entertainment.
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Films
1 film
