Paul Kohner and Mary Philbin
Toronto Daily Star, August 9 1928
Paul Kohner (1902-1988) and Mary Philbin (1902-1993) had been a couple since 1923; they met when director Erich von Stroheim introduced them to each other. They had secretly planned to become engaged in 1926 but it was called off when Ms. Philbin's parents objected - she was Jewish and he was Catholic.
The marriage was called off this time as well. Kohner, who became a successful talent agent, eventually married actress Lupita Tovar; they remained married until his death. Ms. Philbin, whose film career ended in 1930, never married; she eventually became a recluse. They both kept the love letters they sent to one another while they were together; they were found among their possessions after they passed away.
Created November 7, 2025.