Daisy Bufford

Daisy Bufford (April 20, 1913 – December 18, 1987) was an American film actress and model. She was one of the few African-American women to transition from silent films to sound cinema and is best remembered for her starring role as Eleanor Lindsay in Son of Ingagi, the first science fiction horror film featuring an all-Black cast.

Despite systemic racial barriers in the film industry, Bufford maintained a steady career through the 1920s to the 1940s, appearing in both mainstream studio pictures and African-American "race films." She was frequently praised in the Black press for her beauty, discipline, and professionalism, and was considered a trailblazer among Black actresses in early Hollywood.

Early life Daisy Bufford was born on April 20, 1913, in Franklin, Louisiana. She began her film career during the silent era, reportedly around 1925. She became known as the only African-American bathing beauty working for producer Mack Sennett, appearing in short films including Midnight Rose (1927) alongside European star Lya de Putti.

She also performed in stage productions, including a 17-week run in the play Alias the Deacon, which was later adapted to film. Bufford began appearing in sound films in the 1930s, often in supporting or uncredited roles. Her appearances included films such as Stranded, Don't Bet on Blondes (1935), and Diamond Jim Brady (1935).

Career In the 1930s, Bufford gained recognition for her work in both mainstream and race films. In addition to acting, she worked as a fashion model and appeared regularly in the Los Angeles Black social scene. She was a frequent subject of entertainment columns and hosted parties attended by prominent figures, including Louis Armstrong.

Bufford's most memorable role came in 1940 when she starred as Eleanor Lindsay in Son of Ingagi, the first sci-fi horror film featuring an all-Black cast. The film, written by Spencer Williams Jr., told the story of a newlywed couple terrorized by a monstrous creature. Bufford's performance was lauded in the Black press for its strength, emotion, and physical bravery.

She later appeared in the MGM musical Broadway Rhythm (1943), which featured other African-American stars such as Lena Horne and Hazel Scott.

Personal life Bufford was known for her active lifestyle and dedication to fitness. Reports noted that she maintained a strict diet and played tennis frequently. She lived in Los Angeles with her mother and was a beloved figure among the Black film and arts community of the West Coast.

Death Daisy Bufford died on December 18, 1987, in Contra Costa County, California, at the age of 74.

Filmography

Year Title Role Notes 1927 The Girl from Everywhere Minor Role Uncredited 1934 Cleopatra Dancer / Slave Girl Uncredited 1934 Imitation of Life Black Waitress Uncredited 1935 A Notorious Gentleman Waitress Uncredited 1935 Don't Bet on Blondes Penny – Marilyn's Maid Uncredited 1935 Diamond Jim Maid Uncredited 1935 The Invisable Ray Infant's Mother Uncredited 1936 Next Time We Love Maid Uncredited 1936 Show Boat Maid in Chicago Uncredited 1936 Forgotten Faces Maid 1936 To Mary – with Love Maid 1936 Star for a Night Maid Uncredited 1937 Nobody's Baby Black Woman in Taxi Uncredited 1937 The Toast of New York Heather – Josie's Maid Uncredited 1937 Sophie Lang Goes West Maid 1937 Something to Sing About Daisy – Stephanie's Maid Uncredited 1937 The Adventurous Blonde Daisy Uncredited 1937 Love on Toast Hyacinth 1937 Deep South Actress Short film 1938 Jezebel Flower Girl Uncredited 1939 Naughty but Nice Maid Uncredited 1939 The Star Maker Colored Maid Uncredited 1939 Gone with the Wind Housemaid at Evening Prayers Uncredited 1940 Son of Ingagi Eleanor Lindsay Lead role 1940 Two Girls on Broadway Nightclub Powder Room Attendant Uncredited 1942 Lady Gangster Black Prisoner Uncredited 1943 Cabin in the Sky Dancer / Jim Henry's Paradise Patron Uncredited 1943 Hers to Hold Defense Plant Worker Uncredited 1944 Jam Session Woman Armstrong Sings To Uncredited 1944 Charlie Chan in the Chinese Cat Carolina Uncredited