After the rigors of a convent education interrupted her nascent career (she had broken into film as a bit player at the age of three), Loretta Young resurfaced at age 14 to play a supporting role in "Naughty But Nice" (1927), netting herself a contract with First National (the precursor of Warner Brothers).By the mid-30s Young, having made a strategic switch to the Fox lot, had blossomed into one of Hollywood's more prominent leading ladies, capably adorning dozens of (mostly mediocre) productions. With her prominent cheekbones, limpid-pool eyes and Joan Crawford-style mouth, Young was often
Moved to Hollywood at age three; began to appear in films as an extra and in bit roles
Between ages three and eight, made uncredited appearances in several silent films
While attending convent school, was not allowed to appear in films
1927
Film acting debut at age 14, in "Naughty But Nice"; director Mervyn LeRoy originally wanted sister Polly Ann but she was unavailable; Gretchen (later dubbed Loretta), asked for, and got, the job
"Naughty But Nice" led to contract with First National; changed name to Loretta Young
