Lillie Langtry, one of the most famous actresses of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, died February 12, 1929. She was 75.

Langtry was born Emile Charlotte in Jersey, England on October 13, 1853. The daughter of a minister, she grew up to be a beautiful girl who had many suitors, and many lovers.

She married Englishman Edward Langtry in 1873. She used the marriage to allow her entry into high society. Her beauty made her a prize model for many of Europe’s finest artists.

Her notoriety also brought her into contact with some of England’s most famous men, notably the Prince of Wales, the future King Edward VII. She and the Prince had a love relationship for about three years. Langtry was also involved with the Prince of Battenberg, who is believed to be the father of her only child, Jeanne Marie. Langtry led her daughter to believe that the two were aunt and niece. When her daughter learned the truth many years later, she and her mother became estranged.

Edward Langtry died in 1897, and Lillie married the wealthy Hugo de Bathe in 1899.

Langtry began a stage career in 1881 when she began a show business career on the London stage. It is said her acting abilities were mediocre at first, but she drew large crowds who were attracted to her costumes, her jewels, and her beauty. As she became a more competent actress, she began to tour the world with her performances, including engagements in the United States.

She lived a lavish lifestyle which was supported in part by her wealthy lovers.

Langtry converted the old Acquarium Theatre in London into the Imperial Theatre. The theatre became her own operation in 1901. Her last performance as an actress was in 1917.

One of her interests in later years was her racing horse stable which she maintained in Newmarket.

Langtry died in her Monte Carlo home on February 12, 1929. She is buried in the cemetery at the Saint Helier Parish Church in Saint Helier, England.