Born in London in 1918, she was a pioneering actress and filmmaker known for her work in Hollywood. Initially rising to fame in the 1930s and 1940s with roles in films like "The Light That Failed" and "They Drive by Night," she later became one of the first female directors in Hollywood. Her directorial work often tackled social issues, with films such as "Outrage" and "The Hitch-Hiker." Beyond acting and directing, she was also a writer and producer, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.