Helen Twelvetrees

Helen Twelvetrees was a captivating actress whose career spanned the transition from silent films to talkies, and ultimately found her way into the dynamic world of radio broadcasting. Though primarily known for her dramatic film roles in the 1930s, Twelvetrees' later career revealed a versatile performer who adapted to the changing entertainment landscape.

Early Life and Hollywood Beginnings

Born Helen Marie Jurgens on December 25, 1908, in Brooklyn, New York, Twelvetrees was destined for a life in entertainment. After studying at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, she quickly transitioned into film, adopting her first husband's surname and launching a promising Hollywood career. Her early film roles were characterized by intense emotional performances, with many critics noting her ability to portray "suffering women" with remarkable depth. Films like Her Man (1930) established her as a dramatic powerhouse, showcasing her talent for projecting raw emotional force.

The Decline of Her Film Career

By the late 1930s, Twelvetrees' film career was waning. After her final two films, Persons in Hiding and Unmarried in 1939, she began exploring alternative performance avenues. This period marked her transition into radio and theatre, demonstrating her adaptability as an entertainer. Her move into radio was strategic, reflecting the industry's growing prominence. Interestingly, her 1933 film My Woman had already hinted at radio's increasing cultural significance, with a plotline involving a radio executive.

Radio and Performance Reinvention

After returning to New York, Twelvetrees launched her own radio gossip show, leveraging her Hollywood connections and charismatic personality. This venture allowed her to remain in the entertainment spotlight while exploring a different medium of performance. Her radio work was complemented by occasional stage performances, including a summer stock theatre role in August 1951 where a fellow cast member noted her "extremely fragile psyche" and "saddest eyes" - a testament to the emotional depth she brought to her performances.

Personal Struggles and Legacy

Despite her professional achievements, Twelvetrees' personal life was marked by significant challenges. Her marriages were tumultuous, and she ultimately died by suicide in 1958, leaving behind a complex legacy. Her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6263 Hollywood Boulevard stands as a lasting tribute to her contributions to entertainment.

Conclusion

Helen Twelvetrees represents a fascinating chapter in early 20th-century entertainment. From silent films to talkies, and ultimately to radio, she embodied the resilience and adaptability of performers during a transformative era in media history.

Works and Appearances

Radio

• Unnamed Radio Gossip Show (Post-1939)

Film

• The Ghost Talks (1929)
• Her Man (1930)
• Millie (1931)
• Thoroughbred (1936)
• Persons in Hiding (1939)
• Unmarried (1939)

Theatre

• Summer Stock Performance (August 1951)

Notable Achievements

• Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Prominent actress during Hollywood's transition to sound films