Edith Massey
Biography
Edith Massey was an American actress and singer born in San Francisco, California on May 28, 1918. She passed away on October 24, 1984 at the age of 66. Throughout her acting career, Massey earned eleven known credits and became best known for her appearances in a series of movies directed by John Waters. Because of her work with Waters, she is recognized as one of the Dreamlanders, which is the director's ensemble of regular cast and crew members. Among her film work, she is associated with the movies Polyester, Desperate Living, and Female Trouble.
Career overview
Edith Massey was an American actress and singer born in San Francisco, California on May 28, 1918. Her life spanned until her death on October 24, at the age of 66. Throughout her career in the entertainment industry, she accumulated eleven known acting credits in movies and television shows.
Massey became best known for her film work with director John Waters. Her association with Waters placed her among the Dreamlanders, which was his ensemble of regular cast and crew members. Among her filmography are appearances in specific motion pictures directed by Waters, including Women Trouble, Polyester, and Desperate Living.
Her contributions to cinema through her collaborations with John Waters cemented her status as a recognizable figure in independent film history. Details regarding her career are preserved through her filmography and biographical records on multiple database platforms.
Ask the Vault
Ask anything about Edith Massey.
Frequent co-stars
Career timeline
Full Filmography
12 titles- Return to Mortville (2026) as Self (archive footage)
- I Am Divine (2014) as Self (archive)
- Divine Waters (1985) as Self
- Divine Waters (1985) Original Music Composer
- Mutants in Paradise (1984) as Dr. Durchfall
- Polyester (1981) as Cuddles Kovinsky
- Desperate Living (1977) as Queen Carlotta
- Female Trouble (1976) as Aunt Ida
- Edith's Shopping Bag (1976) as Self
- Love Letter to Edie (1975) as Self
- Pink Flamingos (1972) as Edie
- Multiple Maniacs (1970) as Edith / Virgin Mary
Frequently Asked Questions
What movies or TV shows is Edith Massey best known for?
Edith Massey is widely recognized for notable roles and projects including Polyester (1981), Desperate Living (1977), Female Trouble (1976), Pink Flamingos (1972).
When and where was Edith Massey born?
Edith Massey was born on May 28, 1918 in San Francisco, California. They passed away on October 24, 1984.
How many credits does Edith Massey have?
Edith Massey has accumulated over 12 film and television credits across a career spanning from 1970 to 2026.
What is Edith Massey's background in cinema and television?
Edith Massey was an American actress and singer born in San Francisco, California on May 28, 1918. She passed away on October 24, 1984 at the age of 66. Throughout her acting career, Massey earned eleven known credits and became best known for her appearances in a series of movies directed by John Waters. Because of he...
Edith Massey by the numbers
Age in their best-rated roles
- Polyester (1981) as Cuddles Kovinsky — aged about 63
- Female Trouble (1976) as Aunt Ida — aged about 58
- Desperate Living (1977) as Queen Carlotta — aged about 59
- Multiple Maniacs (1970) as Edith / Virgin Mary — aged about 52
- Pink Flamingos (1972) as Edie — aged about 54
What viewers say
No comments yet. Be the first to share your take on Edith Massey.