Margaret Irving
Actor
About Margaret Irving
Margaret Irving was a versatile American actress and dancer whose career spanned the heights of the Vaudeville era, the Broadway stage, and the Golden Age of Hollywood. Born in Pittsburgh in 1898, she began her professional journey as a 'Ziegfeld Girl,' appearing in the legendary Ziegfeld Follies of 1919 and 1920 alongside icons like Eddie Cantor and Fanny Brice. She achieved significant theatrical fame for her role as Mrs. Whitehead in the Marx Brothers' stage production of 'Animal Crackers' (1928), a role she successfully reprised in the 1930 film adaptation. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Irving became a reliable character actress in Hollywood, often portraying sophisticated socialites, stern matrons, or comedic foils in over thirty films. Her transition to television in the 1950s brought her a new wave of recognition as 'Aunt Gus' in the popular sitcom 'The People's Choice.' After a final guest appearance on '77 Sunset Strip' in 1960, she retired from the screen, leaving behind a legacy that bridged the gap between classic musical theater and early television comedy.
The Craft
On Screen
Irving was known for her poise and comedic timing, often playing 'straight man' roles to chaotic comedians like the Marx Brothers or Abbott and Costello. Her background in dance and musical theater gave her a physical grace and vocal clarity that made her ideal for the 'sophisticated lady' archetypes of the 1930s. She possessed a versatile range that allowed her to move seamlessly from exotic specialty dancing to dramatic character roles and domestic television comedy.
Milestones
- Debuted on Broadway in 'Girlies' Gambols' (1916) performing a unique 'ballet-hula' on point.
- Featured as a Ziegfeld Girl in the Ziegfeld Follies of 1919 and 1920.
- Originated the role of Mrs. Whitehead in the Broadway production of 'Animal Crackers' (1928).
- Successfully transitioned to sound film in the Marx Brothers' 'Animal Crackers' (1930).
- Played the operatic diva Mme. Lilli Rochelle in 'Charlie Chan at the Opera' (1936).
- Starred as a series regular 'Aunt Gus' in the sitcom 'The People's Choice' (1955-1958).
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Special Recognition
- Recognized as a prominent Ziegfeld Follies alumna
- Legacy inclusion in the Internet Broadway Database (IBDB)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Margaret Irving represented the 'triple threat' talent of the early 20th century—equally skilled in dancing, singing, and acting. Her involvement in the Ziegfeld Follies placed her at the center of American popular culture during the Jazz Age. By appearing in 'Animal Crackers,' she helped define the 'high-society foil' character type that became essential to the success of early screwball and slapstick comedies. Her career serves as a historical roadmap of the American entertainment industry's evolution from Vaudeville and Broadway to the silver screen and eventually the living room television set.
Lasting Legacy
Irving is primarily remembered by film historians for her contribution to the Marx Brothers' early work, providing a necessary grounded presence amidst their absurdity. She remains a significant figure for researchers of the Ziegfeld Follies and the transition period from silent to sound cinema. Her long-running role on 'The People's Choice' also makes her a familiar face to fans of 1950s 'Golden Age' television.
Who They Inspired
As one of the early Broadway stars to make a successful leap to talking pictures, she influenced the standard for performance in early musical comedies. Her ability to maintain a 'straight' comedic persona while working with unpredictable improvisational actors set a template for character actresses in the decades that followed.
Off Screen
Margaret Irving was married to William Frederick James, a union that lasted until his death. She spent her later years in California, eventually passing away in San Francisco (some sources cite Westminster/Los Angeles area) at the age of 90. She was known for her professionalism and was a respected member of the early Hollywood social circle.
Education
Studied dance under the renowned choreographer Ned Wayburn in New York City.
Family
- William Frederick James (dates unavailable, until his death)
Did You Know?
- She was a trained dancer who performed a 'ballet-hula' on point in her 1916 Broadway debut.
- She appeared in the 1922 silent film 'Radio-Mania' (also known as 'The Man from M.A.R.S.'), which was an early experiment in 3D filmmaking.
- She is one of the few actresses to have worked with both the Marx Brothers and Abbott and Costello.
- Despite her long career, she is often confused with other actresses of the era, though her role in 'Animal Crackers' remains her most distinct identifier.
- She lived to the age of 90, witnessing the entire evolution of the modern film industry.
- Her Broadway career included the original production of 'The Desert Song' (1926).
In Their Own Words
I'm Mrs. Whitehead, and I'm very glad to see you. (Context: Her introductory line in 'Animal Crackers' as she greets Captain Spaulding.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Margaret Irving?
Margaret Irving was a prominent American stage and film actress best known for her roles in early sound comedies and as a Ziegfeld Follies dancer. She gained lasting fame for playing Mrs. Whitehead in the Marx Brothers' classic 'Animal Crackers' (1930).
What films is Margaret Irving best known for?
She is most famous for 'Animal Crackers' (1930), the disaster epic 'San Francisco' (1936), the mystery 'Charlie Chan at the Opera' (1936), and the Abbott and Costello comedy 'In Society' (1944).
When was Margaret Irving born and when did she die?
She was born on January 18, 1898, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and passed away on March 5, 1988, in California at the age of 90.
What was Margaret Irving's acting style?
Irving was a sophisticated character actress known for her poise and ability to play the 'straight' role in comedies. Her background as a professional dancer and Broadway performer gave her a refined screen presence.
Did Margaret Irving win any awards?
While she did not win major competitive awards like an Oscar, she was highly regarded in the industry for her longevity and her status as a former Ziegfeld Girl and Broadway star.
What was Margaret Irving's role in 'The People's Choice'?
In the 1950s sitcom 'The People's Choice,' she played the recurring character 'Aunt Gus' (Augusta Miller), the aunt of the main character played by Jackie Cooper.
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Films
1 film
