[2][3][4] Shortly after her mother's divorce and remarriage in approximately 1915, Dorothy was legally adopted by her stepfather George Hughes Smith.

Eventually, the family moved to Philadelphia,[2] where Dorothy attended Miss Hill's School, specializing in English and music.

[5] She appeared in 40 films between 1922 and 1930, several of which were directed by her first husband, Larry Semon.

[6] After she left acting, Dwan worked as a columnist for Photoplay magazine.

[1] Dwan died in Ventura, California from lung cancer, aged 74.