Leila Hyams (1905-1977) was an American actress known for her relatively brief but intense career, spanning the late silent and early sound eras of cinema. Possessing a discreet elegance and refined beauty, Hyams distinguished herself with her successful transition to sound, often portraying sophisticated, sometimes vulnerable women in mystery and horror films.

Among her most celebrated performances was the role of "Venus" in Tod Browning's controversial cult classic *Freaks* (1932). She also shone in *Island of Lost Souls* (1932), one of the earliest film adaptations of "The Island of Doctor Moreau," and the pioneering Technicolor film *Mystery of the Wax Museum* (1933). She also starred in the prison drama *The Big House* (1930), one of the early major sound successes. Her style was characterized by a naturalness that made her a memorable screen presence.