She was born Elma Kate Victoria Karkeek in Port Augusta, South Australia on 16 December 1887.

Hopson's earliest stage experiences were several performances with Pollard’s Lilliputian Opera Company in Australia and New Zealand from 1898 to 1900.

From 1912 she worked for Cecil Hepworth, along with Alma Taylor, Chrissie White, James Carew, Gerald Ames and John MacAndrews.

[7] Her first film as producer was the racing drama Heart and Saddles (aka The Gentleman Rider), with Stewart Rome.

"[11] She died 21 July 1973 in Princess Louise Hospital, Kensington, London,[12] the records naming her as Elma Kate Worster.