Matthews, Jessie (1907–1981)

English actor. A hugely popular star in musical revues of the 1920s, she made a successful transition into film roles in the 1930s. Although these films were largely undistinguished, her appeal transcended their limitations. She chose to remain in Britain rather than enhance her career in Hollywood, and worked only sporadically after World War II. In 1944 she directed the short film Victory Wedding.

Matthews was born in London, of a poor family. She made her stage debut at the age of 10, and danced in chorus lines as a teenager.