Frank Szatkus: Mae West’s Secret Husband & Vaudeville Legend

Behind every Hollywood legend, there is often a hidden story, and Frank Szatkus is one of those forgotten names. He was a talented vaudeville performer who lived for music, dance, and laughter. Many people know Mae West, the bold actress of the 1920s, but few realize she once secretly married Frank Szatkus, who used the stage name Frank Wallace. Their marriage stayed hidden for decades until the truth surprised the world. In this article, you’ll learn about his early life, secret marriage, stage career, and legacy. The story of Frank Szatkus reminds us how some artists quietly shaped the golden age of show business.

Profile Bio:  Frank Szatkus

Early Life and Stage Beginnings

From New York Dreams to Vaudeville Stages

Frank Szatkus was born around 1891 or 1892 in New York City. Coming from an immigrant family, he grew up surrounded by theaters, street music, and live shows. The magic of performance drew him toward the stage at an early age. To sound more professional, he changed his name to Frank Wallace, a common practice among entertainers. Vaudeville in those years was America’s favorite art form — full of comedy, dance, songs, and magic acts. It was noisy, colorful, and exciting, and Frank became part of that energy.

The Making of a Performer

Frank was known as a song-and-dance man who could charm any crowd. His quick steps and comic timing made audiences smile. He performed in different theaters and worked hard to earn his place among other popular acts. Vaudeville was not easy — performers had to travel, adapt, and keep improving every night. Through discipline and passion, Frank Szatkus learned the craft that made him stand out. These skills would later bring him close to another rising star — Mae West.

Marriage to Mae West — A Hidden Hollywood Secret

The Secret Wedding of 1911

The biggest surprise in Frank Szatkus’s life came on April 11, 1911, when he secretly married Mae West in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Both were young entertainers performing together on stage. Their chemistry was strong, but Mae feared that being married would hurt her career. Back then, producers preferred single actresses who looked free and glamorous. So the couple decided to hide their marriage from the public. They continued performing separately, pretending to be only stage partners. The secret stayed buried for many years.

The Revelation and Media Shock of 1935

In 1935, a Milwaukee clerk found their old marriage certificate, and the secret was exposed. Newspapers rushed to report that Mae West had a hidden husband named Frank Wallace. The discovery created a storm in Hollywood. Mae West first denied it, then joked about it later, saying, “He’ll always remain in the wastebasket of my memories.” For Frank, the news was both a blessing and a burden. He suddenly became famous again — but only as Mr. Mae West, not as an artist in his own right.

Life After Mae West — The Show Must Go On

Return to Vaudeville and Partnership with Trixie LaMae

After the scandal, Frank Szatkus returned to performing. In 1928, he met Trixie LaMae, whose real name was Marie Carey. She became his new partner both on and off stage. Together they created lively acts filled with dance and humor that reminded audiences of the golden vaudeville days. Reports later showed they settled in Henderson, Kentucky, where Trixie had been born. The two kept the vaudeville spirit alive when most others had moved to radio and movies.

Career Challenges and Lawsuit

Being known as Mae West’s husband followed Frank everywhere. Some producers avoided hiring him, fearing drama. Feeling wronged, he filed a lawsuit in 1940 asking for $105,000 in damages, claiming Mae had blocked his work and even threatened him. The case made headlines but brought little change. Despite setbacks, Frank Szatkus kept performing wherever he could. His dedication showed his true love for the stage, even when fame and fortune faded away.

Later Years and Final Curtain

Life in Henderson and Retirement

In the 1950s, Frank and Trixie opened Trixie’s Alibi Club in Henderson. The club became a friendly spot for locals and travelers, offering live music and laughter. Frank helped young artists and entertained guests with his old show-business stories. Though he was no longer a big name in entertainment, he lived peacefully, proud of his long career. People admired his kindness and talent, often unaware that this humble man had once been married to a Hollywood legend.

Death and Legacy (1966)

On October 15, 1966, Frank Szatkus passed away at 73. News of his death reached the same newspapers that once exposed his secret marriage. Mae West gave a short, cold response, but those who knew Frank spoke warmly of him. Trixie LaMae said he had taught Mae how to walk, dance, and dress with style. His photos and theater posters were later kept in the Colorado Historical Society, preserving the memory of a performer who never stopped believing in art.

Legacy and Cultural Impact

Vaudeville’s Golden Echo

Frank Szatkus represents the classic spirit of vaudeville — hardworking, creative, and passionate. The humor and rhythm that filled his acts shaped what later became modern comedy and musical theater. Without performers like him, the film and TV industry might never have developed the same lively energy. His story honors all the entertainers who built American show business with talent rather than fame.

A Man Behind the Myth

Many people only remember Frank as Mae West’s husband, but he was much more. He was a dancer, singer, mentor, and a loyal partner to those he loved. Trixie LaMae once said he never stopped caring for Mae West, even after years of distance. That quiet devotion shows the depth of his character — humble, emotional, and true to his art. His life teaches that success is not only about headlines but also about heart.

Lessons from Frank Szatkus’s Story

The journey of Frank Szatkus shows that fame can be temporary, but passion lasts forever. He faced rejection, gossip, and loss, yet he continued performing with grace. His life reminds us of the sacrifices made by early artists, especially in times when careers could end because of a secret or rumor. In every performance, he gave joy to people — and that joy became his true legacy.

Conclusion 

Frank Szatkus lived a life full of dreams, secrets, and stage lights. He may not have reached Mae West’s level of fame, but his influence on vaudeville and early entertainment cannot be denied. From the bright theaters of New York to small clubs in Kentucky, he carried the same passion for performance. Today, remembering Frank means honoring the hundreds of forgotten artists who shaped show business from behind the scenes. Fame may fade, but true talent — like Frank’s — never dies.

FAQs About Frank Szatkus

1. Who was Frank Szatkus?
He was a vaudeville performer, better known as Frank Wallace, and the secret husband of Hollywood star Mae West.

2. When did Frank Szatkus and Mae West get married?
They secretly married on April 11, 1911, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

3. Why did they hide their marriage?
Mae West wanted to protect her career image, as married actresses often lost popularity at that time.

4. What did Frank Szatkus do after Mae West?
He continued performing in vaudeville and later opened clubs with his partner Trixie LaMae in Kentucky.

5. When did Frank Szatkus die?
He died on October 15, 1966, at the age of 73.

6. What is his legacy?
Frank helped shape early American entertainment and inspired later generations of stage performers.

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