Clara Bow

Born Clara Gordon Bow
Date of birth: July 29, 1905 (The exact year of her birth has been debated, but TCM’s database lists it at 1905.)
Date of death: September 27, 1965

Roles

First role: Beyond the Rainbow (1922)
Final role: Hoop-La (1933)

Best known for…

…being Hollywood’s first “It” girl and the quintessential flapper

…getting her start as a WAMPAS Baby Star

…starring in silent films

…popularizing red hair dye and “heart-shaped” lips

…failing to make the transition into talkies, despite her immense talent as an actress

Notable awards:

• Received a star on the Walk of Fame in 1960

More Clara on TMP:
Birthday tribute + five favorite films
It recommendation
Dancing Mothers review
The Plastic Age review
World War I in Classic Film: Wings