When you hear the name Zasu Pitts, you may not know exactly who she is or what she did, but you can be sure that her impact on Hollywood and entertainment at large is significant. With a career spanning decades that touched on vaudeville, silent films, talkies, and television, Pitts left a mark on the industry unlike any other.
But who was Zasu Pitts? She was a talented actress, a beloved character, and a woman who persevered in a time when the film industry was undergoing immense changes. Her unique look and comedic timing endeared her to audiences around the world, and her legacy lives on today through the films and TV shows in which she appeared.
In this comprehensive biography, we'll delve into the life of this incredible woman and explore everything from her age, height, and figure, to her net worth and beyond. So buckle up and get ready for an in-depth look at Zasu Pitts and all that she accomplished.
The Life and Career of Zasu Pitts
Zasu Pitts was a beloved American actress known for her distinctive voice and quirky comedic roles in both silent films and talkies. Born in 1894 in Kansas, Pitts was the daughter of a Methodist minister and grew up in poverty. She began her acting career on the stage and eventually moved to Hollywood in the 1920s to pursue a career in film.
Pitts quickly became a popular character actress, known for her nervous and awkward characters who often found themselves in the midst of chaotic situations. She appeared in over 200 films throughout her career, including silent classics like "Greed" and "The Wedding March," as well as talkies like "Broadway Melody of 1936" and "Life with Father."
Despite her success on the screen, Pitts struggled with anxiety and stage fright throughout her life. She was married four times, and her personal life was often overshadowed by her career. She retired from acting in the 1960s due to poor health and passed away in 1963 at the age of 69.
Throughout her career, Pitts was known for her distinctive vocal style and unique approach to comedy. She remains a beloved figure in the history of Hollywood, remembered for her contributions to the art of film and her unforgettable on-screen performances.
Early Years and Career Beginnings
Zasu Pitts was born on January 3rd, 1894 in Parsons, Kansas to a family of vaudeville performers. Her parents encouraged her interest in acting and by the age of eight, she was already performing on stage alongside them.
As a teenager, Pitts left home to join a traveling theater company and continued to work in vaudeville until the early 1920s. In 1917, she moved to Hollywood to pursue a career in silent films and quickly became known for her comedic timing and eccentric characterizations.
One of Pitts's earliest credited roles was in the 1920 film "Peanuts and Bullets," but it was her performance in the 1924 film "Greed" directed by Erich von Stroheim that brought her critical acclaim. She continued to work steadily throughout the 1920s, appearing in films such as "King of Kings" and "Underworld."
In the 1930s, Pitts transitioned into more supporting and character roles, but her career continued to thrive. She appeared in several films of the era, including "Ruggles of Red Gap" and "Life with Father." In addition to film, Pitts also worked in radio, frequently appearing on shows such as "The Eddie Cantor Show."
Overall, Pitts enjoyed a long and successful career in the entertainment industry, spanning over four decades. Her talents as a comedian and character actor continue to be celebrated today.
Notable Works and Achievements
Zasu Pitts appeared in over 200 films throughout her career, leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood's golden age. Her signature "Pitts Cook" consisted of wide-eyed faces and comedic timing that she honed in countless comedic roles.
Some of Pitts' noteworthy performances include her role as Hettie in "Greed" (1924), a gritty tale of greed and betrayal, directed by Erich von Stroheim. She also starred in the films "Ella Cinderella" (1926), "Two Flaming Youths" (1927), and "Barefoot Boy" (1923), to name a few.
Despite the advent of sound, Pitts' talent and comedic timing never wavered. She was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance in the 1963 film, "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World."
Pitts also made appearances on television, guest-starring on shows such as "The Lucille Ball Show" and "The Beverly Hillbillies." She was truly a trailblazer in the entertainment industry and paved the way for female comedians for years to come.
Personal Life and Relationships
Zasu Pitts was known for being very private about her personal life, which didn't stop the media from speculating about her relationships over the years. She was married twice, first to actor Tom Gallery and then to successful businessman John E. Woodall. She did not have any children.
Despite being in Hollywood during the so-called "Golden Age" of cinema, Pitts was not heavily involved in the party scene and was known for her quiet demeanor. She did, however, have close friendships with several other actors and actresses in the industry, including Clara Bow, Mary Pickford, and Lillian Gish.
There has been some speculation over the years about Pitts' romantic relationships with other women, but there is no concrete evidence to support these claims. Regardless of her personal life, Pitts was widely respected in the industry for her talent and work ethic.
- Married twice:
- Tom Gallery (1920 to 1933)
- John E. Woodall (1933 to 1968)
- No children
- Known for her reserved nature
- Close friendships with Clara Bow, Mary Pickford, and Lillian Gish
- Speculation about romantic relationships with other women
Physical Appearance and Measurements:
Age:
Zasu Pitts was born on January 3, 1894 in Parsons, Kansas, United States. She passed away at the age of 69 on June 7, 1963 in Hollywood, California.Height and Figure:
Net Worth:
Zasu Pitts had a successful career as a film and television actress and amassed a considerable net worth during her lifetime. Her exact net worth is unknown, but she was rumored to be worth several hundred thousand dollars at the time of her death.Other Physical Features:
