Ivy Close (15 January 1890 – 13 December 1968) was an English actress, model, and beauty queen who became a pioneering figure in early British cinema.
Early Life and Rise to Prominence: Born in Stockton-on-Tees, County Durham, Ivy Close gained widespread public attention in 1908 when she won the Daily Mirror's national beauty contest, being declared "The Most Beautiful Woman in the World." This victory, which reportedly involved hundreds of thousands of votes, launched her into the public eye and paved the way for her career in entertainment.
Career in Film: Her success in the beauty contest quickly led to opportunities in the nascent film industry. Close began her acting career in silent films, making her debut in 1912. She became one of Britain's earliest film stars and was known for her versatility across various genres. Beyond acting, Close was also involved in film production, marking her as an early female producer in British cinema. Her career flourished during the silent era, and she appeared in numerous short and feature films.
Later Life and Legacy: After her film career, Ivy Close continued to be a notable figure. She married film producer and director Elwin Neame, with whom she had two sons, Ronald and Adrian. Ronald Close went on to become a distinguished cricketer for Sussex and England, while Adrian was a cameraman. Ivy Close passed away in 1968, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer who transitioned from beauty queen to a significant figure in the foundational years of British cinema.