An American film actress whose career spanned from the silent era into the talkies, she gained early fame in the 1930s. Known for her roles in iconic films such as "Frankenstein" (1931) and "The Public Enemy" (1931), she often portrayed strong and resilient women. Her memorable scene with James Cagney, where a grapefruit is smashed into her face, became legendary. Despite personal and health challenges, she continued acting in films and television until the 1970s, leaving a lasting impact on classic Hollywood cinema.