Celebrity Info
A tall and lanky character actress, Monica Wickes carved out a unique niche in the world of comedy with her unforgettable portrayals of housekeepers, nurses, and nuns. Known for her awkward frame, delightfully angular features, and that distinctive recessed chin, Wickes brought a certain charm and wit to every role she played. She wisecracked, meddled, and nosed her way through nearly 20 Broadway plays, hundreds of stock productions, ten television series, countless guest appearances on the small screen, and almost 50 feature films.
Monica Wickes began her acting journey on stage in the early 1930s and was fortunate enough to be involved in five plays either written or directed by the legendary George S. Kaufman. However, it wasn’t until she took on the role of Miss Preen in Kaufman and Hart’s hit play The Man Who Came to Dinner (1939–40) that she truly found her breakthrough. As the endlessly harassed nurse to the sharp-tongued Sheridan Whiteside, played by Monty Woolley, Wickes showcased her comedic brilliance and quickly became a household name.
Following her stage success, Monica Wickes reprised the role in the 1941 film adaptation, bringing her iconic character to the big screen. She also starred in a radio production featuring Fred Allen and later appeared in a 1972 TV version alongside the legendary Orson Welles. Throughout her career, Wickes proved time and again that her unique presence and comedic timing made her an indispensable figure in American entertainment.
When it comes to Mary Wickes’s filmography, one standout performance that consistently receives high praise is her role in The Music Man (1962), which many consider her highest-rated movie. Fans and critics alike often point to this classic musical as a highlight in Mary Wickes’s career, showcasing her impeccable timing and charm. On the other end of the spectrum, Mary Wickes also appeared in Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit (1993), a film that, while popular with some audiences, ended up being her lowest-rated project according to various reviews. Still, even in less acclaimed works, Mary Wickes brought her signature wit and presence. Overall, Mary Wickes’s contributions across decades of cinema remain memorable, with The Music Man standing tall as her most celebrated role.
United States
