Myrna loy net worth

1. Childhood and Early Career
2. Hollywood Debut and Struggles
3. Breakthrough and "The Thin Man"
4. Partnership with William Powell
5. New Amplua and Personal Life
6. Wartime Activism
7. Later Career and Legacy

Childhood and Early Career

Myrna Loy was born Myrna Adele Williams on August 2, 1905, in Radersburg, Montana. Her parents were David Franklin Williams, a Welsh sheep rancher, and Della Mae Williams, a trained pianist. After her father's death in 1918, Loy and her family moved to Los Angeles, where she began pursuing acting at the age of 15. In 1923, she became a dancer at the Egyptian Movie House.

Hollywood Debut and Struggles

Loy made her film debut in a bit role in the 1925 silent film "What Price Beauty?" In 1926, she signed a contract with Warner Bros. and appeared in over 80 films over the next eight years, mostly in stereotypical roles as exotic or femme fatale characters. However, the stock market crash of 1929 led to her contract being canceled.

Breakthrough and "The Thin Man"

In 1931, Loy played her first comedic role in "Love Me Tonight." Her breakthrough came in 1934 with "Manhattan Melodrama" and "The Thin Man," where she played Nora Charles, the wife of a private detective. The latter film became a massive success and established Loy as a leading lady.

Partnership with William Powell

Loy and William Powell became one of the most iconic duos in film, starring together in 14 films, including five sequels to "The Thin Man." They developed a witty and sophisticated chemistry on screen.

New Amplua and Personal Life

Loy's role as Nora Charles led to her being typecast as the ideal wife. In 1936, she married producer Arthur Hornblow Jr. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 1942, and Loy subsequently married businessman John Hertz in 1942 before divorcing him in 1944.

Wartime Activism

During World War II, Loy dedicated herself to supporting the war effort and became a vocal opponent of Hitler, earning her a place on his blacklist. She also worked with the Red Cross and raised funds for wartime causes.

Later Career and Legacy

Loy returned to Hollywood after the war and continued her film career into the 1950s, although she gradually transitioned into supporting roles. She remained active in public service and philanthropic endeavors. She passed away on December 14, 1993, at the age of 88. Myrna Loy's legacy as a talented actress and a dedicated philanthropist continues to endure.