Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Gloria Holden - Countess Marya Zaleska aka Dracula's Daughter


  Gloria Holden who played Countess Marya Zaleska aka Dracula's Daughter (1936) is best remembered for two roles. Zola in The Life of Emile Zola (1937), and the title role in Dracula's Daughter (1936). She would become a leading lady in B-movies and supporting actress in big budget films.

Some sources incorrectly list Dracula’s Daughter (1936) as her screen debut. Holden actually appeared in The Return of Chandu (1934) in an uncredited role and in Wife vs. Secretary (1936) before starring in Dracula’s Daughter (1936).
It is rumored that her role of Countess Marya Zaleska influenced the writings of Anne Rice.  Rice does mention Dracula's Daughter in her novel The Queen of the Damned. Despite the loyal following the role of Countess Marya Zaleska earned her, Holden throughout her life would always have an aversion to the role. Shortly before her death, when a fan who asked Holden for her autograph happened to mention Dracula's Daughter, Holden responded by saying “Oh, that awful thing.”

 

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