Florence Lawrence
Breakthrough Years
Became a highly visible leading lady for Vitagraph, achieving widespread recognition, though often unnamed, in many films.
Became the Biograph Girl, recognized by audiences in numerous films, pioneering screen stardom.
Left Biograph for IMP, becoming the first named movie star, a breakthrough for the star system.
Her identity was famously revealed by Carl Laemmle, making her the first widely-promoted movie star.