Acting

Ruth Hiatt

Ruth Hiatt (January 6, 1906 – April 21, 1994) was a notable actress whose career began during the silent film era, with a strong emphasis on comedic roles throughout the 1920s. She gained recognition for her performances in lighthearted films directed by prominent figures such as Jack White, Norman Taurog, and Mack Sennett.

Hiatt's journey in film began when she was discovered as a teenager by comedian Lloyd Hamilton, who made her his leading lady at United Artists in 1922. A talented dancer, she succeeded Irene Dalton in Hamilton's productions. Their inaugural collaboration was the short comedy *The Speeder* (1922), produced by the Hamilton Comedy Film Company.

In 1925, she starred alongside Raymond McKee in *Smith's Baby* and continued to shine in a series of comedic shorts for Pathe Pictures, including titles from the Jimmy Smith series like *Smith's Pony* and *Smith's Cousin*, all released in 1927. She later appeared in the second chapter of *Sunset Trail* (1932) featuring Ken Maynard.

Hiatt's film career spanned into the early 1940s, with memorable roles in popular works such as the Three Stooges' *Men In Black*, the Our Gang short *Beginner's Luck*, and other films like *Just Speeding* (1936) and *Double Trouble* (1941).

Beyond her film work, Hiatt was recognized for her beauty, winning accolades such as first prize at the Venice Beach bathing beauties parade in 1923. In 1924, she was selected as one of the WAMPAS Baby Stars, alongside notable actresses like Clara Bow. Ruth Hiatt passed away in Montrose, California, due to congestive heart failure in 1994.

Read more