Carlotta Monterey

Press photo of Carlotta Monterey.

Nickolas Muray, 1926

The Life and Legacy of Eugene O'Neill's Wife

Early Life and Career

Carlotta Monterey, born Hazel Neilson Taasinge on December 28, 1888, in San Francisco, California, lived a life that was as dramatic and captivating as the plays her future husband would write.

Her early years were marked by a cosmopolitan upbringing; her father was a Danish immigrant, and her mother was an Australian of Irish descent. This diverse heritage perhaps contributed to Carlotta's exotic appeal and her early fascination with the arts.

From a young age, Hazel displayed a flair for drama and a desire for the spotlight. She left home as a teenager to pursue a career in acting, initially working in vaudeville before making her way to the Broadway stage. Her striking looks and charismatic presence soon caught the attention of the entertainment industry. She adopted the stage name Carlotta Monterey, a choice that added an aura of mystery and allure, further distinguishing her from her contemporaries.

Carlotta's career flourished in the early 20th century. She appeared in several Broadway productions and silent films, becoming a recognizable name in the entertainment world. Her performances were well-received, and she garnered a reputation for her beauty and talent. Despite her success, Carlotta was not content to be merely a pretty face; she sought deeper artistic and intellectual fulfillment.

 

In this intimate portrait, Carlotta Monterey, elegantly dressed with a floral necklace, gazes at her husband, the renowned playwright Eugene O'Neill, who is smartly attired in a striped suit and tie. The photograph captures a moment of deep connection between the couple.

Carl Van Vechten, 1933

Personal Life and Meeting Eugene O'Neill

Her personal life, however, was as tumultuous as her professional one. Carlotta married and divorced twice before meeting Eugene O'Neill. Her first marriage, to artist Ralph Holmes, ended in divorce, as did her second marriage to Swedish painter August Nilsson. These experiences likely shaped her views on relationships and independence, making her a strong and assertive partner when she eventually met O'Neill.

Carlotta and Eugene O'Neill's paths crossed in 1926, a meeting that would change both their lives. O'Neill, already an acclaimed playwright, was captivated by Carlotta's beauty and intelligence. Their relationship was intense from the start, filled with both passionate love and fiery conflicts. They married in 1929, and Carlotta quickly became not just a wife but a vital collaborator in O'Neill's creative process.

Life at Tao House

In 1937, the couple purchased Tao House in Danville, California. Carlotta played a significant role in transforming the house into a retreat where O'Neill could focus on his writing. She managed the household meticulously, ensuring that O'Neill had the quiet and solitude he needed. Despite their frequent quarrels, Carlotta's presence was a stabilizing force in O'Neill's life. Her influence can be seen in the depth and complexity of the characters and themes he explored in his later works.

O'Neill's health began to decline in the 1940s, and Carlotta took on the role of caregiver, a challenging task given his increasing physical and emotional ailments. Her dedication during these difficult years was unwavering, and she remained by his side until his death in 1953.

Preserving O'Neill's Legacy

After O'Neill's death, Carlotta devoted herself to preserving his legacy. She was instrumental in ensuring that his plays were published and produced posthumously. Her efforts were particularly crucial in the release of "Long Day's Journey Into Night," which O'Neill had originally intended to remain unpublished until 25 years after his death. Recognizing the play's brilliance and importance, Carlotta made the bold decision to allow its publication and production just three years after his passing, in 1956. The play went on to win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and solidified O'Neill's place as one of the greatest playwrights in American history.

Carlotta Monterey lived until 1970, dedicating her remaining years to honoring her husband's memory and ensuring his work continued to be celebrated. Her life was one of dramatic highs and lows, marked by artistic achievement, personal challenges, and profound love. Carlotta's legacy is inextricably linked with Eugene O'Neill's, and her contributions to his life and work are a testament to her strength, intelligence, and unwavering devotion. Through her efforts, the world gained a deeper understanding and appreciation of O'Neill's genius, and her own story remains a compelling part of the history of American theater.