Dorothy Appleby

Dorothy Appleby (January 6, 1906 – August 9, 1990) was a notable American film actress recognized for her contributions to over 50 films between 1931 and 1943. Her journey into acting began in New York City, where she gained valuable experience as an understudy and chorus member, having made her way into the spotlight after winning a beauty contest in Maine.

Primarily cast in supporting roles, Appleby often appeared in short films and low-budget features. Due to her petite stature of just over five feet tall, she found it challenging to land leading roles in larger productions, particularly as her early co-stars like comedian Charley Chase were considerably taller. However, her height became an asset in comedies produced by Columbia Pictures, where she frequently starred alongside The Three Stooges, who were closer to her height. Notably, she became Buster Keaton's leading lady in 1940, a perfect pairing due to their complementary sizes.

Appleby featured in memorable Stooge comedies, such as *Loco Boy Makes Good*, *So Long Mr. Chumps*, and *In the Sweet Pie and Pie*. One standout role was as Rosita in the 1940 film *Cuckoo Cavaliers*, where she humorously endured a misadventure with the Stooges involving a cement facial mask. Despite her age, she continued to portray youthful characters well into the 1940s, with her final film appearance being a brief role as a college student in the 1941 feature *Small Town Deb*.