Introduction
Mary Wickes was an American actress who made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She was known for her distinctive voice and comedic timing, which made her a beloved figure in Hollywood. Her career spanned several decades, and she appeared in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials. In this article, we will take a closer look at Mary Wickes’ life and career, from her early beginnings to her most iconic roles.
Early Life and Career
Mary Wickes was born on June 13, 1910, in St. Louis, Missouri. She was the youngest of five children, and her parents were both German immigrants. Wickes attended Washington University in St. Louis, where she studied drama. After graduation, she moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting.
Wickes’ first major role was in the Broadway production of “The Man Who Came to Dinner,” which opened in 1939. She received critical acclaim for her performance and was soon offered a contract with Warner Bros. Studios. She made her film debut in “The Man Who Came to Dinner” in 1942, and went on to appear in several other movies throughout the 1940s.
Movies
Sister Act
One of Mary Wickes’ most iconic roles was in the hit movie “Sister Act” (1992). She played the role of Sister Mary Lazarus, a cantankerous nun who teaches choir at a struggling Catholic school. Wickes’ comedic timing and deadpan delivery made her a fan favorite, and she reprised the role in the sequel, “Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit” (1993).
Wizard of Oz
Another memorable role for Mary Wickes was in the classic movie “The Wizard of Oz” (1939). She played the role of the Wicked Witch of the West’s sidekick, the Winkie Guard. Wickes’ distinctive voice was perfect for the role, and her performance helped to make the character a memorable part of the movie.
Television Commercials
Post Cereals
In the 1960s, Mary Wickes became a spokesperson for Post Cereals. She appeared in several commercials for the company, promoting their products and encouraging viewers to try them. Wickes’ comedic timing and likable personality made her a hit with audiences, and the commercials helped to boost sales for Post Cereals.
Alka-Seltzer
Another product that Mary Wickes promoted in commercials was Alka-Seltzer. She appeared in several ads for the company, touting the benefits of the popular antacid. Wickes’ witty delivery and relatable persona made her a natural fit for the role, and the commercials helped to make Alka-Seltzer a household name.
Personal Life
Despite her success in Hollywood, Mary Wickes was known for being a private person. She never married or had children, and she remained focused on her career throughout her life. In her later years, Wickes suffered from health problems and was confined to a wheelchair. She passed away on October 22, 1995, at the age of 85.
Despite her passing, Mary Wickes’ legacy lives on. She remains a beloved figure in Hollywood, and her contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated to this day.
