Remembering Mildred Natwick: A Hollywood Treasure

Mildred Natwick, born on June 19, 1905, was one of the most talented and versatile actresses in Hollywood, known for her wit, charm, and the ability to leave a lasting impression in every role she played. While many actresses of her time may have been relegated to secondary roles, Natwick’s talent stood out, earning her an Academy Award nomination, multiple Tony Award nominations, and a Primetime Emmy Award. From her humble beginnings in theater to her remarkable performances in film and television, Natwick’s legacy continues to inspire and entertain.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Mildred Natwick was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and developed a love for the stage early on. She attended the University of Michigan and studied drama, which led her to New York, where she began her career in the theater. Natwick’s early performances in Broadway productions helped her hone her craft and gave her the experience that would eventually translate to her cinematic work.

Natwick made her film debut in 1940 in The Long Voyage Home, a John Ford-directed film where she played a Cockney slattern. Though her role was small, it marked the beginning of a fruitful collaboration with the iconic director. Over the next few years, she appeared in a series of memorable roles, with Ford’s films being a key part of her career.

Rise to Fame: John Ford’s Classics

Mildred Natwick is perhaps best known for her roles in John Ford’s classic films, which showcased her talent for playing quirky, unforgettable characters. She appeared in 3 Godfathers (1948), She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949), and The Quiet Man (1952), among others. In The Quiet Man, Natwick portrayed the landlady of a rural inn, a role that, though small, made a lasting impact on audiences.

Her skill for bringing depth to even the most secondary characters allowed Natwick to become a beloved character actress, often leaving a lasting impression even in brief appearances. Her performances had an innate authenticity and warmth that made her a perfect fit for Ford’s films, which were often known for their rich character studies set against sweeping landscapes.

The Trouble with Harry and The Court Jester

Natwick’s versatility as an actress extended to a wide variety of roles, from comedic to dramatic. In 1955, she appeared in Alfred Hitchcock’s The Trouble with Harry, a darkly comedic film where she played Miss Ivy Gravely. The film’s quirky tone suited Natwick’s style, and her portrayal of the eccentric character stood out as one of the highlights of the film.

In 1956, Natwick displayed her comedic chops once again in the classic The Court Jester, where she played a sorceress. The film, a hilarious mix of swashbuckling adventure and slapstick comedy, was a departure from her usual serious roles, showing Natwick’s impressive range and ability to deliver in any genre.

A Career Resurgence and Academy Award Nomination

Though Natwick had enjoyed steady work throughout her career, it was in 1967 that she experienced a career resurgence with her role in Barefoot in the Park. In the film, she played the mother of the character portrayed by Jane Fonda. This role earned Natwick her only Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, cementing her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most gifted actresses, capable of holding her own even alongside some of the era’s biggest stars.

Her role in Barefoot in the Park highlighted her unique ability to mix comedy with poignant moments, something that would become a hallmark of her career.

Television Stardom: The Snoop Sisters and Primetime Emmy Award

Mildred Natwick’s talent wasn’t confined to film—she also found success in television, particularly in the 1970s. In 1971, Natwick co-starred alongside Helen Hayes in the ABC Movie of the Week, Do Not Fold, Spindle, or Mutilate. The movie was a hit, and the chemistry between the two actresses was undeniable. The success of the film led to The Snoop Sisters, a television series that aired as part of The NBC Wednesday Mystery Movie during the 1973-74 season.

Natwick’s role as one half of a pair of mystery-solving sisters was both charming and sharp, and her performance earned her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Miniseries or a Movie. This recognition marked a high point in her television career and demonstrated that her talent shone just as brightly on the small screen as it did in feature films.

Final Years and Lasting Legacy

In her later years, Natwick continued to act, making her final film appearance at the age of 83 in the 1988 historical drama Dangerous Liaisons. Although her screen appearances became less frequent as she aged, her legacy as one of Hollywood’s most treasured actresses remained secure.

Mildred Natwick passed away on October 25, 1994, at the age of 89, leaving behind a rich body of work that spans theater, film, and television. Though she may not have been a household name like some of her contemporaries, her remarkable performances have stood the test of time, and her legacy continues to be celebrated by film enthusiasts and critics alike.

Conclusion: A Remarkable Talent

Mildred Natwick’s career is a testament to the power of character acting and the lasting impact that even small roles can have on audiences. Her versatility, warmth, and ability to make any character memorable ensured that she was beloved by filmgoers and respected by her peers. Whether playing a quirky landlady, a comical sorceress, or a wise and caring mother, Natwick’s performances will always be remembered as part of the golden age of cinema.