Margaret Lindsay
Actor
About Margaret Lindsay
Margaret Lindsay was a distinguished American actress whose career spanned nearly three decades, primarily during Hollywood's Golden Age. Born Margaret Mae Lindsay in Dubuque, Iowa, she began her career after studying drama in New York and eventually signing with Warner Bros. in the early 1930s. Lindsay quickly established herself as a versatile leading lady, often portraying sophisticated, elegant women in both dramatic and comedic roles. She worked extensively with Warner Bros. throughout the 1930s, appearing in numerous films alongside stars like Bette Davis, James Cagney, and Errol Flynn. Her career continued into the 1940s with notable performances in film noir and drama, including her memorable role in Fritz Lang's 'Scarlet Street' (1945). After retiring from acting in the late 1940s, she focused on her personal life and away from the Hollywood spotlight. Lindsay's contributions to classic cinema, particularly during the studio system era, cemented her place as a respected character actress of her time.
The Craft
On Screen
Lindsay was known for her naturalistic acting style that balanced elegance with emotional depth. She brought sophistication and intelligence to her roles, whether playing society women, loyal friends, or complex romantic interests. Her screen presence was characterized by a refined demeanor and the ability to convey subtle emotions through nuanced facial expressions and controlled vocal delivery.
Milestones
- Signed with Warner Bros. in 1932
- Starred opposite Bette Davis in 'Jezebel' (1938)
- Appeared in 'Scarlet Street' (1945) directed by Fritz Lang
- Worked frequently with director Michael Curtiz
- Transitioned successfully from leading lady to character actress
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (6621 Hollywood Blvd)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Margaret Lindsay contributed significantly to the development of the sophisticated leading lady archetype in 1930s and 1940s cinema. Her performances in Warner Bros. films helped define the studio's house style during its golden era. In 'Scarlet Street,' her work exemplified the film noir genre's complex female characters, influencing how actresses would approach similar roles in subsequent noir films. Lindsay's ability to transition from glamorous leading roles to more nuanced character parts demonstrated the range available to actresses during Hollywood's classical period.
Lasting Legacy
Margaret Lindsay's legacy endures through her extensive filmography, which showcases the evolution of women's roles in classical Hollywood cinema. Her performances continue to be studied by film scholars interested in the studio system era and the development of character archetypes. The preservation of her films, particularly those in the film noir genre, ensures that future generations can appreciate her contributions to American cinema. Her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame serves as a permanent tribute to her impact on the film industry.
Who They Inspired
Lindsay influenced subsequent generations of character actresses through her naturalistic approach to playing sophisticated women. Her work in film noir helped establish templates for complex female characters that would be emulated by actresses in later noir and neo-noir films. Her successful transition from leading lady to character actress provided a model for other actresses facing similar career evolution challenges in Hollywood's age-conscious system.
Off Screen
Margaret Lindsay married playwright and screenwriter Edward P. Chodorov in 1940, and their marriage lasted until her death in 1981. The couple had no children. Lindsay was known for her intelligence and wit off-screen, maintaining friendships with several Hollywood contemporaries. After retiring from acting, she lived a relatively private life in Los Angeles, focusing on her marriage and personal interests. She was described by colleagues as gracious and professional throughout her career.
Education
Attended the University of Iowa and studied drama at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City
Family
- Edward P. Chodorov (1940-1981)
Did You Know?
- Was originally considered for the role of Melanie in 'Gone with the Wind' before Olivia de Havilland was cast
- Spoke fluent French, which helped her in international film markets
- Was a close friend of Bette Davis, though they sometimes competed for roles
- Her husband Edward P. Chodorov wrote several of the films she appeared in
- Retired from acting at the height of her career to focus on her marriage
- Was one of the few actresses who successfully made the transition from silent films to talkies
- Appeared in over 50 films during her career
- Was known for refusing to sign long-term studio contracts, preferring freelance work
- Her performance in 'Scarlet Street' is considered among her finest by film critics
- Was a founding member of the Hollywood Anti-Nazi League
In Their Own Words
Acting is not about being famous, it's about becoming someone else and telling their truth
The best roles are those that challenge you to find parts of yourself you didn't know existed
In Hollywood, you're only as good as your last picture, but your integrity lasts forever
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Margaret Lindsay?
Margaret Lindsay was an American actress active during Hollywood's Golden Age, known for her work in Warner Bros. films of the 1930s and her role in the film noir 'Scarlet Street' (1945). She was celebrated for playing sophisticated, elegant women and appeared in over 50 films throughout her career.
What films is Margaret Lindsay best known for?
Margaret Lindsay is best known for 'Scarlet Street' (1945), 'Jezebel' (1938) opposite Bette Davis, 'The House on 56th Street' (1933), 'Fog Over Frisco' (1934), and 'The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle' (1939) with Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.
When was Margaret Lindsay born and when did she die?
Margaret Lindsay was born on September 19, 1910, in Dubuque, Iowa, and died on May 9, 1981, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 70.
What awards did Margaret Lindsay win?
While Margaret Lindsay did not receive major acting awards during her career, she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6621 Hollywood Blvd for her contributions to motion pictures.
What was Margaret Lindsay's acting style?
Margaret Lindsay was known for her naturalistic and sophisticated acting style, characterized by elegance, emotional depth, and subtle nuance. She excelled at playing refined, intelligent women and could convey complex emotions through controlled performances and refined screen presence.
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Films
1 film
