Cathy O Donnell

Born on July 6, 1923, in Siluria, Shelby Country Alabama, U.S., Cathy O’Donell was an American actress who is known for working in noir films. She attended the Oklahoma City University and had been to American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She started her career from the stage before moving to movies.

In movies, she began as an extra in "Wonder Man". That followed a major role in "The Best Days of Our Lives". She is vividly remembered for her part in "They Live By Night" which is in the Guardian's list of top ten noir films. After that, she acted in movies such as "Side Street", "The Miniver Story", "The Detective Story", "The Woman’s Angle", "Eight o’clock walk", "The Man From Laramie", "The Deerslayer", "My world dies screaming", "Loves of Three Queens", "The Story of Mankind" and various others like "Ben-Hur". In 1960’s, she ventured into television with "The Rebel" followed by "Tate", " Perry Mason Serial Story Coming Soon... >> Read More... ", " Sugarfoot Serial Story Coming Soon... >> Read More... " and " Bonanza Serial Story Coming Soon... >> Read More... ". She had been part of the TV since 1951 with " Lights Out Click to look into! >> Read More... " but was seen indulging in it actively in the 1960s. Her stint in Television was consistent, but consisted only of bit parts in various series.

She married Robert Wyler in 1948, who was the elder brother of the director William Wyler. Her last movie "Ben-Hur" was directed by William, which was an Academy Award -winning Best Picture. He also directed her in "Detective Story".

At the age of 46, Cathy O’Donell died of cancer related to cerebral haemorrhage. Her death date also happens to be the date of her 22nd wedding anniversary. Her last screen appearance was in the TV show "Bonanza". Though her life was short, it was fulfilled in all arenas. She had a wonderful personal life and was married to Robert Wyler for 22 years. Apart from that, she had a very successful run professionally too.