Ann Shoemaker, American actress (d. 1978)

Ann Shoemaker, born Anne Dorothea Shoemaker on January 10, 1891, was a distinguished American actress whose prolific career spanned nearly five decades, concluding with her passing on September 18, 1978. Renowned for her versatility and compelling performances, she made significant contributions across both stage and screen, appearing in an impressive 70 films and television productions from 1928 through 1976.

One of Shoemaker's most notable and critically acclaimed roles was her portrayal of Sara Delano Roosevelt (1854–1941), the formidable mother of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. She brought this influential figure to life in both the acclaimed stage play and its subsequent feature film adaptation, Sunrise at Campobello. The play, which premiered on Broadway in 1958, dramatized FDR's battle with polio in the early 1920s and his family's crucial support. Its successful film version, released in 1960 and starring Ralph Bellamy as FDR, further cemented Shoemaker's powerful performance as the matriarch who exerted significant influence on her son's life and career.

Beyond her extensive work in cinema and television, Ann Shoemaker was a revered presence on the Broadway stage, showcasing her acting prowess in a remarkable array of productions over several decades. Her career on Broadway began as early as 1919 and continued through 1965, demonstrating her enduring commitment to live theater. Some of her prominent Broadway credits include:

In her personal life, Ann Shoemaker was married to Henry Stephenson (1871–1956), a distinguished British character actor well-known for his roles in classic Hollywood films such as Captain Blood (1935) and Marie Antoinette (1938). The couple shared a daughter, solidifying their family life amidst their demanding careers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ann Shoemaker

When was Ann Shoemaker born and when did she pass away?
Ann Shoemaker was born Anne Dorothea Shoemaker on January 10, 1891, and she passed away on September 18, 1978.
How many films and TV movies did Ann Shoemaker appear in?
Ann Shoemaker appeared in approximately 70 films and television movies throughout her extensive career, which spanned from 1928 to 1976.
What was Ann Shoemaker's most famous role?
Her most celebrated role was portraying Sara Delano Roosevelt, the mother of Franklin D. Roosevelt, in both the original Broadway production and the 1960 film adaptation of Sunrise at Campobello.
Was Ann Shoemaker primarily a film or stage actress?
Ann Shoemaker had a significant career in both mediums. While she appeared in 70 films and TV movies, she also had an extensive and long-running career on Broadway, with credits dating from 1919 to 1965.
Who was Ann Shoemaker married to?
Ann Shoemaker was married to the British character actor Henry Stephenson, who was known for his numerous roles in classic Hollywood films.