Daisy Bufford


Daisy Bufford was an American film actress and model. She was one of the few African-American women to transition from silent films to sound cinema and is best remembered for her starring role as Eleanor Lindsay in Son of Ingagi, the first science fiction horror film featuring an all-Black cast.
Despite systemic racial barriers in the film industry, Bufford maintained a steady career through the 1920s to the 1940s, appearing in both mainstream studio pictures and African-American "race films." She was frequently praised in the Black press for her beauty, discipline, and professionalism, and was considered a trailblazer among Black actresses in early Hollywood.

Early life

Daisy Bufford was born on April 20, 1913, in Franklin, Louisiana. She began her film career during the silent era, reportedly around 1925. She became known as the only African-American bathing beauty working for producer Mack Sennett, appearing in short films including Midnight Rose alongside European star Lya de Putti.
She also performed in stage productions, including a 17-week run in the play Alias the Deacon, which was later adapted to film. Bufford began appearing in sound films in the 1930s, often in supporting or uncredited roles. Her appearances included films such as Stranded, Don't Bet on Blondes, and Diamond Jim Brady.

Career

In the 1930s, Bufford gained recognition for her work in both mainstream and race films. In addition to acting, she worked as a fashion model and appeared regularly in the Los Angeles Black social scene. She was a frequent subject of entertainment columns and hosted parties attended by prominent figures, including Louis Armstrong.
Bufford’s most memorable role came in 1940 when she starred as Eleanor Lindsay in Son of Ingagi, the first sci-fi horror film featuring an all-Black cast. The film, written by Spencer Williams Jr., told the story of a newlywed couple terrorized by a monstrous creature. Bufford's performance was lauded in the Black press for its strength, emotion, and physical bravery.
She later appeared in the MGM musical Broadway Rhythm, which featured other African-American stars such as Lena Horne and Hazel Scott.

Personal life

Bufford was known for her active lifestyle and dedication to fitness. Reports noted that she maintained a strict diet and played tennis frequently.
In 1933, she spent ten weeks recovering from a broken leg but returned to film shortly afterward. She lived in Los Angeles with her mother and was a beloved figure among the Black film and arts community of the West Coast.

Death

Daisy Bufford died on December 18, 1987, in Contra Costa County, California, at the age of 74.

Filmography

YearTitleRoleNotes
1927The Girl from EverywhereMinor RoleUncredited
1934CleopatraDancer / Slave GirlUncredited
1934Imitation of LifeBlack WaitressUncredited
1935A Notorious GentlemanWaitressUncredited
1935Don't Bet on BlondesPenny – Marilyn’s MaidUncredited
1935Diamond JimMaidUncredited
1935The Invisable RayInfant’s MotherUncredited
1936Next Time We LoveMaidUncredited
1936Show BoatMaid in ChicagoUncredited
1936Forgotten FacesMaid
1936To Mary – with LoveMaid
1936Star for a NightMaidUncredited
1937Nobody's BabyBlack Woman in TaxiUncredited
1937The Toast of New YorkHeather – Josie’s MaidUncredited
1937Sophie Lang Goes WestMaid
1937Something to Sing AboutDaisy – Stephanie’s MaidUncredited
1937The Adventurous BlondeDaisyUncredited
1937Love on ToastHyacinth
1937Deep SouthActressShort film
1938JezebelFlower GirlUncredited
1939Naughty but NiceMaidUncredited
1939The Star MakerColored MaidUncredited
1939Gone with the WindHousemaid at Evening PrayersUncredited
1940Son of IngagiEleanor LindsayLead role
1940Two Girls on BroadwayNightclub Powder Room AttendantUncredited
1942Lady GangsterBlack PrisonerUncredited
1943Cabin in the SkyDancer / Jim Henry’s Paradise PatronUncredited
1943Hers to HoldDefense Plant WorkerUncredited
1944Jam SessionWoman Armstrong Sings ToUncredited
1944Charlie Chan in the Chinese CatCarolinaUncredited