The Sixth Borough Film Festival

Enid Kent - Honorary Jury Chair

Biography

Enid Kent was born in Los Angeles into a distinguished theatrical family. Margaret Hamilton — the iconic Wicked Witch of the West from the classic film The Wizard of Oz introduced her parents at a Hollywood bingo party. Her mother, Irene Tedrow, was a celebrated character actress, and her father, William Kent, was a dramatist and producer. Immersed in the performing arts from an early age, she made her stage debut at just ten-years-old, setting the foundation for a lifelong career in theatre and television.

Kent graduated from Hollywood High School in 1962 and went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Arts from San Francisco State University in 1967. Following her studies, she joined the American Conservaatory Theatre, where she performed from 1967 to 1969 and further honed her professional craft.

In 1969, she relocated to New York City, where, like many actresses, she juggled various jobs while pursuing stage opportunities. During this period, she appeared in three productions at Cincinnati’s Playhouse in the Park—A Streetcar Named Desire, The Comedy of Errors, and Long Day’s Journey Into Night. She later performed on Broadway in two productions with Tony and Academy Award winners Henry Fonda, Our Town and The Time of Your Life, portraying the girlfriend of Richard Dreyfuss in the latter.

Kent returned to California in 1973 and transitioned into a successful career in television. She is best known for her recurring role as Nurse Bigelow on the acclaimed series M*A*S*H, a performance that continues to resonate with audiences decades later. She still receives monthly autograph requests from fans who fondly recall her work on the series.

In addition to her contributions to the performing arts, Kent has tirelessly dedicated fourteen years and counting of service to Project Angel Food, a Los Angeles based nonprofit organization providing essential nourishment to individuals affected by serious illness. In recognition of her thousands of hours of volunteer work, Kent was recently honored by the City of Los Angeles with a Certificate of Appreciation. Her commitment to those in need reflects a long-standing devotion to community care and advocacy.

Kent’s career encompasses notable achievements across theatre, television, and humanitarian service. Her body of work and ongoing engagement with the public continue to honor the legacy of the artistic and philanthropic household in which she was raised.