MINNA GOMBELL (1892-1973). Unusual in her generation of actresses for having played female leads from the beginning of her career, Minna Gombell enjoyed successful careers on the stage (in the 1910s and 1920s) and on the screen (in the 1930s and 1940s). Born in Baltimore, she had a public grade school education followed by finishing school. She joined a Yonkers NY theatrical stock company while a teenager, and when the company’s female star became ill, Gombell assumed the chief roles. She would never play in support in the theater again. Her acting style was characterized by simplicity of expression and the projection of human sympathy. Professionally she was famous for being a quick study, being able to absorb a script in hours, and so was often called upon when other leading ladies suffered misfortunes and a substitute was needed. Her first starring role on Broadway was in 1913's 'Madam President.' She was unfortunate in that she often found herself in plays of middling quality…
CREDITS: Studio “Manu”: “Keep In Touch”