Elizabeth Keno, a name that would eventually give way to the more iconic "Mitzi Green", first took her first breath on October 22, 1920, in the bustling borough of The Bronx. Little did the world know, this tiny tot was destined for greatness, and it all began at the tender age of three, when she started making appearances in her parents' vaudeville act. This marked the beginning of a lifelong journey in the spotlight, where she would go on to shine bright and leave an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Mitzi Green's remarkable abilities began to flourish in the early 1930s, with Paramount Pictures showcasing her remarkable acting talents in a string of highly acclaimed films, among them the notable cinematic adaptations of Mark Twain's timeless classics, Tom Sawyer (1930) and Huckleberry Finn (1931).
As she rose to prominence, Green was affectionately nicknamed "Little Mitzi", a testament to her precocious charm and undeniable talent. She made history by becoming the first juvenile star to secure a multi-picture contract with the prestigious studio, and her innate comedic sense, impressive mimicry skills, and uncanny ability to convincingly emulate the mannerisms of renowned Hollywood icons, including Greta Garbo and George Arliss, earned her widespread recognition and acclaim.
The multifaceted talents of Mitzi Green, a young performer who effortlessly transitioned between the realms of music and acting, left a lasting impression on audiences during the early 1930s. In the 1932 musical comedy Girl Crazy, Green's remarkable vocal abilities shone brightly as she took to the stage to perform not one, but two songs that left onlookers in a state of utter amazement. Her impressive range and control as a singer were undeniable, showcasing her remarkable talent to a wide audience.
As a performer, Green's artistic trajectory shifted towards the world of Broadway and nightclubs, where she took center stage in the original production of Rogers' and Hart's iconic musical, Babes in Arms. Within this esteemed production, Green had the esteemed honor of introducing the timeless and beloved classic, "My Funny Valentine," a song that would go on to become an enduring staple in the world of music.
While Green's filmography during this period was relatively limited, featuring a minor role in the 1940 production, Santa Fe Trail, she continued to refine her craft and hone her skills on both the stage and screen, ensuring that her artistic growth and development remained a top priority.
After a prolonged period of absence from the Hollywood spotlight, the talented actress, Virginia Green, made a triumphant return to the big screen in 1952, sharing the limelight with the iconic comedy duo, Abbott and Costello, in the film "Lost in Alaska". This marked the beginning of a new chapter in her career, as she went on to appear in a string of notable productions, including "Bloodhounds of Broadway" later that same year. The highlight of her subsequent work, however, was undoubtedly her starring role in the popular sitcom "So This Is Hollywood", which premiered in 1955. In this show, Green brought her unique brand of charisma to the character of a sharp-witted and daring stunt woman, a role that showcased her impressive range and versatility as an actress.
After a prolonged and illustrious tenure, the renowned individual, known for their remarkable accomplishments, succumbed to the devastating effects of cancer on May 24th, 1969, at the tender age of forty-eight.
Their final resting place is situated within the serene confines of Eden Memorial Park Cemetery, located in the picturesque town of Mission Hills, California, a poignant reminder of their lasting impact on the realm of entertainment.
