Mary Clare was a British actress active in both theatre and film. She began her career on the stage, where she established herself as an actress of great talent and stage presence, often in dramatic and authoritative roles. Her theatrical success led her to film, where she became one of the most notable character actresses in British cinema, specializing in portraying strong women, severe matrons, or imposing figures. Among her most celebrated performances are those in Alfred Hitchcock's *The Lady Vanishes* (1938), Powell and Pressburger's *Black Narcissus* (1947), and the role of Mrs. Corney in David Lean's *Oliver Twist* (1948). Her ability to command the scene with an intense performance made her a recurring and recognizable face. For her contributions to the theatre, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1949. Her career, spanning over four decades, established her as a leading figure in 20th-century British acting.