Esther Howard (1892–1965) was an American actress, best known for her roles as a character actress in classic Hollywood cinema. Active mainly from the 1930s to the early 1950s, her career began in vaudeville and theater before she transitioned to the big screen. She is particularly remembered for her prolific collaboration with director Preston Sturges, becoming part of his celebrated stock company of recurring actors. She appeared in iconic films such as *Sullivan's Travels*, *The Miracle of Morgan's Creek*, and *Hail the Conquering Hero*. In addition to Sturges's films, she played memorable roles in various genres, including the film noirs *Detour* and *Born to Kill*. Specializing in gruff characters, matrons, and comedic figures, her distinctive screen presence made her an indispensable face of the era's cinema, although she never received major awards for her performances.