Carlena Beard
Carlena Beard (March 19, 1929 – February 23, 1972) was an American child actress, most famous for portraying several different minor characters in the Our Gang short films from 1930 to 1935. She was a native of Los Angeles, California. Her older brother was Matthew "Stymie" Beard, one of the series' most popular and best-remembered characters.[1]
Carlena Beard | |
|---|---|
| Born | March 19, 1929 Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Died | February 23, 1972 (aged 42) Los Angeles, California, USA |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Years active | 1930–1935 |
Carlena Beard was African-American.
Our Gang years
As older brother Stymie was the main breadwinner for the Beard family, his success with the Our Gang series opening the door for his siblings. Carlena Beard appeared as Stymie's younger sister in Shiver My Timbers and For Pete's Sake!.
Later years and death
After departing Our Gang, Beard became a dancer. She spent many years traveling as a personal assistant to musician Lionel Hampton.[2]
Beard died on February 23, 1972.[1]
References
- "gideonseniors1959.com". gideonseniors1959.com. Retrieved 2012-12-12.
- Maltin, Leonard and Bann, Richard W. (1977, rev. 1992). The Little Rascals: The Life and Times of Our Gang, p. 260. New York: Crown Publishing/Three Rivers Press. ISBN 0-517-58325-9