Ruth Chatterton was born on December 24, 1892, in New York City, NY. She grew up in a working-class family and was the eldest of four children. Chatterton's parents, Sarah and Walter, struggled to make ends meet, so she made the difficult decision to drop out of school at the age of 14 in order to help support her family.
Despite her challenging upbringing, Chatterton discovered her love for acting at a young age. She got her start on Broadway, where she quickly made a name for herself with standout performances in a variety of plays.
Chatterton's talent and charisma on stage caught the attention of Hollywood producers, and she made her film debut in the 1929 movie Madame X. The success of this film launched her into stardom, and she quickly became one of the most sought-after actresses of her time.
Throughout the 1930s, Chatterton continued to impress audiences with her performances in films such as Dodsworth and The Rich Are Always with Us, in which she co-starred alongside the legendary Bette Davis.
Despite her demanding career, Chatterton also found time to pursue her passion for aviation. She became an aviatrix and was known for her daring flights and adventurous spirit. It was during this time that she befriended the famous pilot Amelia Earhart, with whom she formed a close bond.
Chatterton's personal life was marked by a series of marriages and divorces. She was married three times, but she never had any children of her own. Despite the ups and downs of her personal life, Chatterton remained dedicated to her craft and continued to deliver remarkable performances on screen and stage.
Ruth Chatterton's contributions to the world of entertainment are undeniable. She was a trailblazer in Hollywood, known for her strong, independent female characters and her captivating on-screen presence.
Chatterton's impact extended beyond the world of acting. Her friendship with Amelia Earhart and her passion for aviation serve as a testament to her adventurous spirit and her willingness to break boundaries and defy expectations.
Though she may not be as well-known today as some of her contemporaries, Ruth Chatterton's legacy lives on through her timeless performances and her groundbreaking contributions to both film and aviation.