Linda Stirling

LINDA STIRLING (1921-1997)

Deemed the "Queen of the Serials," Linda Stirling made her film debut as a model in the 1942 musical The Powers Girl. At that time, Republic Pictures executives were looking to cast the lead role in The Tiger Woman serial and felt Stirling's beauty and athletic ability made her a good fit for the part. After signing with Republic in 1944, Linda landed that role and the lead in Zorro's Black Whip. She would continue her portrayals of the audacious heroine and avenger in multiple serials, Westerns, and adventure films before marrying Republic screenwriter Sloan Nibley in 1946.

The following year Stirling retired from films and, except for a couple of television appearances, committed herself to motherhood. After raising her children, Stirling enrolled at UCLA, where she earned an MA, BFA, and PhD. By the 1960s Linda Stirling was a college professor. Although she always attempted to hide her former film career from her students, at least one each term would recognize her.

Linda Stirling