The unusual name Gwili popped up in the U.S. baby name data for just two years, then disappeared again:
- 1934: unlisted
- 1933: 9 baby girls named Gwili
- 1932: 10 baby girls named Gwili [debut]
- 1931: unlisted
- 1930: unlisted
Why?
Because of Danish actress Gwili (pronounced jee-lee) Andre, who had a brief career in Hollywood.
In the early 1930s, U.S. movie studios were on the lookout for the next Greta Garbo. RKO Pictures believed that former fashion model Gwili Andre (born Gurli Andresen) would fit the bill.
Her first three movies (Roar of the Dragon, Secrets of the French Police, and No Other Woman) were released in 1932 and 1933. They weren’t particularly successful, so Gwili played supporting roles for the next few years. Her final films came out in the early 1940s.
What are your thoughts on the name Gwili?
P.S. Jinx, Sivi, and Donivee are three more forgotten Hollywood actresses who left their mark on the U.S. baby name charts.
Sources:
- Gwili Andre – Wikipedia
- “New Garbo ‘Rival’ is Gwili Andre.” Milwaukee Leader 29 Apr. 1932: 9.
- SSA
Image: Screenshot of Secrets of the French Police