Arlene Martel, American actress and singer (d. 2014)

Arlene Martel, born Arline Greta Sax on April 14, 1936, was a distinguished American actress whose career spanned several decades, leaving a notable mark on television and film until her passing on August 12, 2014. Revered for her adaptability and unique presence, Martel became a familiar face in a wide array of productions, showcasing a remarkable talent for embodying diverse characters.

Early in her professional journey, particularly before the year 1964, audiences and casting agents often knew her under the names Arline Sax or Arlene Sax. This practice of adopting a stage name or slightly altering one's birth name was quite common in Hollywood, allowing performers to craft a distinct public identity as they navigated the competitive entertainment industry.

The "Chameleon" of Hollywood

It was within the vibrant and often demanding landscape of Hollywood that Martel earned a particularly fitting and enduring nickname from industry insiders: "The Chameleon." This moniker, primarily used by casting directors and those deeply entrenched in the film and television world, was a testament to her extraordinary range and unique professional assets. Her striking appearance, combined with an exceptional command of various accents and dialects, provided her with an unparalleled ability to convincingly portray characters from an impressively wide spectrum of racial and ethnic backgrounds. This rare talent made her an invaluable asset in an era when versatility was highly prized, allowing her to transition seamlessly between vastly different roles and bring genuine authenticity to each performance. Whether she was playing a Vulcan priestess, a German prisoner of war, or a mysterious femme fatale, Martel’s capacity for transformation was consistently on full display, solidifying her reputation as a truly gifted character actress.

Frequently Asked Questions About Arlene Martel

Who was Arlene Martel?
Arlene Martel was an American actress, born Arline Greta Sax, who had a prolific career in television and film from the mid-22th century until her passing in 2014. She was known for her versatile acting and ability to portray a wide range of characters.
Why was she called "The Chameleon"?
Casting directors and other Hollywood insiders nicknamed Arlene Martel "The Chameleon" due to her unique appearance and remarkable proficiency with various accents and dialects. These talents enabled her to convincingly portray characters of many different races and ethnicities, showcasing her exceptional adaptability as an actress.
What were some of Arlene Martel's notable roles?
While not explicitly mentioned in the initial text, Arlene Martel had many memorable roles that showcased her versatility. She is widely recognized for her appearance as T'Pring in the iconic Star Trek: The Original Series episode "Amok Time." She also appeared in popular shows like The Twilight Zone, The Outer Limits, The Monkees, Columbo, Hogan's Heroes, and Battlestar Galactica, among many others.
When did Arlene Martel stop using "Sax" in her professional billing?
Arlene Martel was frequently billed as Arline Sax or Arlene Sax before 1964. After this period, she transitioned to using Arlene Martel professionally.