Vivian Duncan, 84; Early Film Actress
Vivian Duncan, 84, an actress and singer who began her career in vaudeville shows and silent movies and went on to entertain European royalty, has died at a Hollywood rest home.
Along with her sister, Rosetta, Duncan starred in “Topsy and Eva,” a 1920s musical that had long runs in Los Angeles, New York and London. She later starred in the silent-film version of the musical. She also starred in one of the first talking films, “It’s a Great Life,” made in 1930.
The Duncan Sisters made their first Victor record in 1921, and went on to cut 10 more records.
Duncan’s first big show was “Doing Our Bit” in 1919. She also starred in “A Goodfellow” and “Tiptop,” both in 1920.
After World War II, the Duncan Sisters toured the United States, playing in nightclubs and auditoriums until a sister was killed in a car accident in Chicago in 1958.
Only good movies
Get the Indie Focus newsletter, Mark Olsen's weekly guide to the world of cinema.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
