I’m sure most of you are familiar with the iconic film “To Kill a Mockingbird” starring Gregory Peck. Well this photo is with none other than Mary Badham, the little girl who played “Scout ” in the film.
She was only 10 years old and got the part even though she had no previous acting experience! The most remarkable thing is that her performance was so good that she was nominated for an Oscar! At the time, (1962) she was the youngest actress to have ever been nominated for Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture!
Mary did other acting roles, such as the last episode of the TV show “Twilight Zone” and also was in the movie “This Property Was Condemned” starring Natalie Wood and Robert Redford.
To say that she was a brilliant child actress would be putting it mildly. Even though her career was blossoming, she decided to retire for a time and became an art restorer and educator. Mary got married and had two children and didn’t act for several years.
Then in 2005, she came out of retirement to do a film with Keith Carradine called “Our Very Own ” because the director would not accept any other actress! In 2012, Mary attended the screening of the 50th anniversary of “To Kill a Mockingbird” at the White House with President Barack Obama! In 2022, she was asked to tour in the stage production of To Kill a Mockingbird – this time playing Mrs. Dubose. Â
As another interesting note: Her older brother is John Badham who directed “Saturday Night Fever” starring John Travolta , along with several other movies he’s known for.
I had the pleasure of meeting her a couple of years ago in Mississippi at an autograph show, and now lucky me, I get to add her to my new “friend ” list. And of course, I must add that she is an absolute sweetie pie!
Until next time, …remember to open your arms and let the good things come in.
