Ruth Clifford, an American actress, made a lasting impression on the film industry, spanning a career that began in the silent era and continued into the television age. Born on February 17, 1900, Clifford's journey in show business commenced at the tender age of 15, when she landed a role as an extra at Universal Studios, gradually progressing to more substantial parts.
Her early credits include the 1916 film "Behind the Lines," marking the beginning of her long and illustrious career. By the mid-1920s, Clifford had established herself as a leading lady, taking on starring and supporting roles in films such as "The Dramatic Life of Abraham Lincoln" (1924),in which she portrayed Ann Rutledge, the lost love of Abraham Lincoln.
However, the advent of sound pictures significantly diminished Clifford's role in the industry, and she was relegated to smaller and less prominent parts over the next three decades. Despite this, she remained a beloved figure in Hollywood, thanks in part to her close relationship with director John Ford, with whom she shared a passion for bridge.
Ford cast Clifford in eight films, although her roles were often limited. Additionally, Clifford lent her voice to iconic Disney characters, including Minnie Mouse and Daisy Duck, for a time. Her legacy as a silent screen actress was recognized posthumously, with her obituary in the Los Angeles Times noting that she had become a valuable resource for historians studying the silent era.
Throughout her life, Clifford remained a cherished figure in the film industry, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.
