Mary Woronov

Mary Woronov (December 8, 1943- ) is a natural-born performer who began acting in elementary school. While studying sculpture at Cornell, she met Gerard Malanga through poet friends, who cast her in Andy Warhol’s films. She soon became a key figure in the Silver Factory, appearing in Hedy and The Chelsea Girls. Mary Woronov also performed with the Velvet Underground in the Exploding Plastic Inevitable, miming S&M scenes. In 1979, she moved to Los Angeles and starred in cult hits like Eating Raoul and Rock ‘n’ Roll High School. Besides acting, Woronov paints and has written books, notably her memoir about the Factory, Swimming Underground, and Snake.

In this Artifacts Bonus Film, hear Ron Tavel, John Vaccaro, Ronnie Cutrone talk about Mary’s sexually ambiguous magnetism and the riveting intelligence of her presence. Listen to Mary respond directly in a Talkback session to Factory members. And don’t miss Conrad Ventur’s recreation of a Warhol’s 1965 Screen Test of Mary Woronov, shot 45 years later.

Related series: Silver Factory

An enthralling journey through Andy Warhol’s Factory, uncovering the mesmerising stories of its vibrant inhabitants.

John Cale

John Cale, born in 1942 in Wales, has spent over 50 years bridging avant-garde and pop music. A key player in LaMonte Young’s Theatre of Eternal Music, co-founder of The Velvet Underground, and a prolific solo artist and producer, Cale's collaborations span from Patti Smith to The Happy Mondays.

John Cale

John Cale, born in 1942 in Wales, has spent over 50 years bridging avant-garde and pop music. A key player in LaMonte Young’s Theatre of Eternal Music, co-founder of The Velvet Underground, and a prolific solo artist and producer, Cale's collaborations span from Patti Smith to The Happy Mondays.