Evelyn Ankers (August 17, 1918 – August 29, 1985) was a British-American actress who was a prominent figure in Hollywood B-movies during the 1940s, becoming particularly known as one of Universal Studios' leading ladies in their horror films. Often dubbed "The Queen of Screamers" or "The Horror Queen," she co-starred with many of the era's horror icons, including Lon Chaney Jr., Boris Karloff, and John Carradine.
Early Life
Ankers was born in Valparaíso, Chile, to English parents. Her family soon moved to England, where she received her education. Showing an early interest in acting, she attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London. She began her film career in British cinema in the mid-1930s, making her debut in The Belles of St. Clements (1936) and appearing in several other films, including The Return of the Frog (1938) and Murder in the Family (1938).
Career in Hollywood
Ankers relocated to Hollywood in 1940, initially signing with 20th Century Fox before moving to Universal Pictures. It was at Universal that she found her niche, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in their horror and adventure productions.
"The Horror Queen"
Her breakthrough role came in 1941 as Gwen Conliffe in The Wolf Man, opposite Lon Chaney Jr. This film established her as a quintessential "scream queen" and led to her appearing in numerous other Universal horror classics throughout the decade, often portraying the feisty, intelligent, and often terrified female lead. Her notable horror credits include:
- The Wolf Man (1941) – As Gwen Conliffe
- The Ghost of Frankenstein (1942) – As Elsa Frankenstein
- Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man (1943) – As Ilonka, a gypsy girl
- Son of Dracula (1943) – As Claire Caldwell
- Weird Woman (1944) – As Paula Drake
- The Invisible Man's Revenge (1944) – As Julie Herrick
Beyond horror, Ankers demonstrated versatility in other genres. She appeared in adventure films like Tarzan's Magic Fountain (1949), mysteries, comedies, and dramas. However, her association with the Universal horror brand remained her most enduring legacy.
Later Career and Personal Life
After leaving Universal in the mid-1940s, Ankers continued to work in films for various studios, though her output slowed down towards the end of the decade. She married actor Richard Denning in 1947, and they remained together until her death.
In the 1950s, Ankers transitioned to television, appearing in episodes of popular series such as The Lone Ranger, Fireside Theatre, and Stage 7. She largely retired from acting by the mid-1950s to focus on her family and personal life, occasionally making brief appearances. Ankers and Denning moved to Hawaii in the 1960s.
Evelyn Ankers died from ovarian cancer on August 29, 1985, in Maui, Hawaii, at the age of 67.
Legacy
Despite her prolific work in various genres, Evelyn Ankers is primarily remembered for her significant contributions to the golden age of Universal horror. Her memorable performances helped define the archetype of the strong, yet vulnerable, leading lady in classic monster movies, earning her a lasting place in the hearts of horror film enthusiasts.