Elena Verdugo

Elena Angela Verdugo (April 20, 1925 – May 30, 2017) was an American actress who began in films at the age of five in Cavalier of the West (1931). Her career in radio, television and film spanned six decades. Early life Elena Angela Verdugo was born on April 20, 1925, in the city of Paso Robles, California. She was the daughter of Mrs. Beatrice K. Verdugo. Verdugo studied dance, drama, and music as a youngster. Career Film When Verdugo was 15, a judge appointed her mother as her legal guardian so that she could sign a film contract. One of her early appearances was in Down Argentine Way (1940). She made numerous film appearances through the 1940s, including two Universal horror films. While filming the Abbott and Costello comedy Little Giant (1946), she met and married screenwriter Charles R. Marion, who also wrote for the comedy team's radio show.