This child star of the 1940s quickly captured hearts with her natural acting style and remarkable ability to convey deep emotion, especially through tears. Born as Maxine O’Brien, she made her first appearance in a civil defense film starring James Cagney, followed by a small role in Babes on Broadway, both released in 1941. Recognizing her talent, MGM signed her and rebranded her as Margaret, giving her a leading role in Journey for Margaret (1942). In this film, she played a frightened London war orphan who forms a touching bond with reporter Robert Young. Her performance was mature, intelligent, and subtly unsettling—qualities that turned her into a sensation almost overnight.
MGM loaned Margaret out to Fox for the 1944 adaptation of Jane Eyre, where she continued to impress audiences. Her next major opportunity came later that year in Meet Me in St. Louis. Playing Tootie Smith, the spirited yet vulnerable younger sister of Judy Garland’s character, she stood out in a stellar cast. Her musical duets with Garland and a dramatic Halloween scene involving a grumpy neighbor were particularly memorable. For this role, Margaret was honored with a special juvenile Oscar, a testament to her growing fame.
Following this success, she appeared in Music for Millions (1944) and the emotionally rich drama Our Vines Have Tender Grapes (1945), both of which showcased her range as an actress. By 1949, Margaret had matured into more complex roles, playing Beth in a remake of Little Women and portraying Mary Lennox in The Secret Garden. These performances highlighted her evolution from a gifted child star into a serious and versatile young actress.
When it comes to Margaret O’Brien’s career highlights, one film really stands out as her highest rated—Jane Eyre (1944). That performance truly showcased her talent at a young age and remains a favorite among critics and fans alike. On the other hand, looking at her filmography, The Unfinished Dance (1947) tends to receive the lowest ratings compared to her other works. While Margaret O’Brien brought charm and dedication to every role, this particular movie didn’t resonate as strongly with audiences or reviewers. Still, even in less acclaimed projects, Margaret O’Brien’s presence added value, proving her enduring appeal throughout her early Hollywood years. It’s clear that Margaret O’Brien left a mark, especially in films like Jane Eyre (1944), which continue to be celebrated today.