Roxanne Powell
Senior Content Editor
It is with a heavy heart that we inform our readers of the passing of actress Carla Laemmle. Described by many as the “link to Hollywood’s past,” Laemmle passed away on Thursday night at the age of 104.
Although she was born in Chicago on October 20, 1909, Laemmle grew up in Los Angeles among the original buildings of Universal Studios, courtesy of her uncle, founder Carl Laemmle. She grew up surrounded by the love of her family in their bungalow on the movie lot.
According to her great niece, Rosemary Hilb, Laemmle appeared to be in perfect health when “her heart just stopped.” From an early age, Laemmle showed a passion for performing. In 1925, she starred in The Phantom of the Opera, later going on to perform the classic opening lines to the film adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
“Among the rugged peaks that frowned down upon the Burgo Pass are found crumbling castles of a bygone age…”
Back in 2012, The Times interviewed film historian Scott Essman, who described Laemmle as “the last tie to an era that is pretty much gone. When you talk about these great Universal films of that period–we are at a point now that it is all memory.”
Yet even as the “bygone age” of Carla Laemmle comes to an end, we will never forget her contributions and dedication to the world of film. Age is just a number, and Laemmle proved to us all how living your life should never be restricted by it.
“I never thought about age,” Laemmle told The Times. “I always had a feeling that I was in my 20s.”
So did we, Carla, so did we.
PopWrapped’s own Zachary Jaydon remembers Laemmle fondly, having had “the pleasure of knowing” her in life.
“Carla Laemmle was a beautiful soul, and one of the last great links to Hollywood’s treasured past. She encompassed everything that was “Old Hollywood,” and her contributions to show business and the rich history of Hollywood will live on forever.”
From the bottom of our hearts, Carla, we thank you.
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