Marietta Canty

Marietta Canty was an American actress, community activist and recipient of numerous humanitarian awards.

Early days

Canty was born in Hartford, Connecticut, the daughter of Mary and Henry Canty, who attended the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church and actively canvassed for the Republican Party.

Acting career

Canty first appeared on Broadway in 1933. She also appeared in 40 films between 1940 and 1955, mostly in supporting roles and bit parts. Like many African-American actresses of her generation, she often played family maids. Two of her first roles were in the films The Lady is Willing and The Spoilers, both with Marlene Dietrich in the leading role. Canty is perhaps best known as Delilah, Spencer Tracy's housemaid, in the comedy Father of the Bride and in its sequel Father's Little Dividend. Canty retired from film acting in 1955, her last role in Hollywood was Rebel Without a Cause starring James Dean, where she had a memorable part as Sal Mineo's family maid.

Personal life

Canty was highly socially active in her community. She ran for a seat on the Hartford City Council in the early 1960s.

Legacy

Canty’s awards include:

the Humanitarian Award, Hartford Section of National Council of Women
the certificate of Service and Award Recognition by the American Red Cross.
the Marietta Canty House, a circa 1897 Queen Anne style house in Hartford, Connecticut, bought by her parents, Mary and Henry Canty in 1930, is named in her honor.