This petite, brunette Irish colleen, Maureen O’Sullivan, caught the eye of ace Hollywood filmmaker Frank Borzage at the International Horse Show in Dublin back in 1930—and from there, her journey into the spotlight truly began. Maureen O’Sullivan, who had been convent-educated near London and later attended a finishing school in Paris, accepted Borzage’s offer and signed with Fox Studios. Before long, Maureen O’Sullivan found herself transplanted to Hollywood, where she made her film debut opposite the legendary Irish tenor John McCormack in the early sound musical Song o’ My Heart (1930). Though the film itself was underwhelming and McCormack didn’t quite resonate with audiences, Maureen O’Sullivan quickly bounced back—landing a role in the wildly imaginative science-fiction musical Just Imagine (1930). Not one to miss a beat, she soon appeared alongside Will Rogers in the lighthearted and fun adaptation A Connecticut Yankee at King Arthur’s Court (1931), further cementing her place in the industry. And so, Maureen O’Sullivan’s career in film, television, and onstage continued to flourish.
When it comes to Maureen O’Sullivan’s filmography, fans and critics alike often point to Pride and Prejudice (1940) as her standout performance—this is widely regarded as Maureen O’Sullivan’s highest rated movie. The classic adaptation showcases her elegance and depth as an actress, earning strong praise over the years. On the other end of the spectrum, The Barretts of Wimpole Street (1934), while still a notable piece of early cinema, tends to receive more mixed or lower reviews in comparison. As such, it’s generally considered Maureen O’Sullivan’s lowest rated film. Overall, Maureen O’Sullivan’s career spans a range of memorable roles, but these two titles highlight the contrast in critical reception throughout her time in Hollywood.