Introduction
Esther Ralston was an American actress born on September 17th, 1902. She was a prominent figure in the entertainment industry during the silent film era and continued to act in films and television shows until the 1960s. She was a talented actress and a beloved figure in Hollywood, but her life was not without its challenges.
Early Life and Career
Esther Ralston was born in Bar Harbor, Maine, and grew up in various locations throughout the United States due to her father’s job as a hotel manager. She began her acting career at the age of 16, appearing in a stock company production of “The County Chairman.” She soon caught the attention of Hollywood producers and was signed to a contract with Paramount Pictures in 1923.
During her time at Paramount, Esther Ralston starred in numerous silent films, including “The Ten Commandments” and “Peter Pan.” She was known for her beauty and talent, and her popularity only continued to grow throughout the 1920s.
Lena Smith Case
In 1929, Esther Ralston became embroiled in a scandal involving her friend and fellow actress, Lena Smith. Smith had been accused of murdering her husband, and Ralston was called to testify in her defense. The trial was highly publicized, and Ralston’s testimony was seen as crucial in securing Smith’s acquittal.
Despite her involvement in the trial, Esther Ralston continued to work in Hollywood throughout the 1930s and 1940s. She appeared in films such as “The Case of the Lucky Legs” and “The Girl from Mexico,” and also made the transition to television in the 1950s.
Later Life and Family
Esther Ralston was married three times and had two children. Her first marriage was to Theodore Hayes, a film director, but the couple divorced in 1927. She then married Will Morgan, a businessman, in 1930, and the couple had two children together. They divorced in 1941, and Ralston married her third husband, radio executive Floyd Gibbons, in 1942. They remained married until Gibbons’ death in 1965.
Esther Ralston continued to act in films and television shows until the 1960s. She passed away on January 14th, 1994, at the age of 91.
Legacy and Honors
Esther Ralston was a talented actress who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry during her career. She was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960 for her contributions to the film industry. Her legacy continues to live on through her work and the memories of those who knew and loved her.
