Babe London was an English-born actress who gained recognition in Hollywood during the 1920s. Born as Virginia Myrtle Powell on August 28, 1901, in North London, she later adopted the stage name Babe London. London’s career in the entertainment industry started in England, where she worked as a chorus girl and actress in music halls and silent films. In 1924, she decided to pursue her dreams further and moved to Hollywood. Her unique and striking looks, with her large forehead and expressive eyes, quickly caught the attention of film directors. Soon, London became known for her comedic roles in slapstick comedy films. With her distinctive physical appearance and talent for physical comedy, she became a popular actress within the silent film era. One of London’s most notable roles came in the 1925 film The Plastic Age, directed by Wesley Ruggles. The film starred Clara Bow and featured London as her friend and roommate. London’s comical and endearing performance gained her praise from critics and audiences alike. She continued to impress in subsequent films, often playing the role of the dumb blonde with skill and natural charm. Despite her success in the silent film industry, London struggled to transition into the sound era. Her unique voice and thick British accent were not well-received by audiences, and she found it difficult to secure roles. As a result, London’s career began to decline in the late 1920s. She made her last film appearance in 1938, but by then, her stardom had faded, and she slipped into relative obscurity. In her personal life, London had a tumultuous relationship with actor Oliver Hardy, of the comedic duo Laurel and Hardy. The pair were involved in a long-term affair during the late 1920s and early 1930s, which caused strain on their respective marriages. Their romance eventually fizzled out, and London went on to marry three more times, each ending in divorce. Babe London’s unique appearance and comedic talent earned her a lasting place in the history of silent film. Despite facing challenges in her career and personal life, she remains an iconic figure in early Hollywood and a reminder of the talent and creativity of the silent era.
