Ethel May Shannon's childhood was marked by her parents' divorce, after which her mother, Agnes, secured a job as a housekeeper to provide for their young daughter. This led to Ethel's relocation to Los Angeles, California, where she would eventually embark on a career in film. Her entry into the industry came about through a friend's suggestion that they work as film extras. This serendipitous encounter led to her co-starring role alongside Bert Lytell in the 1919 comedy "Easy To Make Money," followed by her leading lady role in the western "Roarin' Dan" opposite Hoot Gibson. Her talent and charm did not go unnoticed, as she was subsequently signed by producer B.P. Shulberg to star in the drama "Maytime." Additionally, in 1923, Ethel was chosen as one of the Wampas Baby Stars, a prestigious honor shared with Evelyn Brent and Pauline Garon. On August 9, 1923, she married Robert Cary, a broker, and the couple remained together for only two years before separating.
Ethel's success continued with roles in films such as "Lightning Romance," "Stop Flirting," and "The Phantom Express." In 1927, she married screenwriter Joseph Jackson, and their son, Joseph Jr., was born the following year. Ethel's decision to quit acting and become a full-time homemaker was a significant turning point in her life. However, tragedy struck in May 1932 when her husband, Joseph, drowned while swimming at Laguna Beach. Ethel's grief was compounded by her subsequent struggles with alcoholism. In 1934, she announced her engagement to Louis Grau, secretary to the Cuban consulate, but the relationship did not last. Ethel returned to acting with a small role in the 1935 film "Backfire." She spent the next decade out of the spotlight while raising her son and continuing to struggle with her addiction. On July 10, 1951, Ethel died at the age of 53 from a pulmonary edema caused by cirrhosis of the liver. She was buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California.
