Florence Annie Bridgwood was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Her mother, Charlotte "Lotta" Bridgwood, was a vaudeville actress, which significantly influenced Florence's early exposure to the performing arts. This environment would shape her future career path and provided her with initial experience in the entertainment industry.

Following in her mother's footsteps, Florence began performing in various stage productions and vaudeville shows. This period was crucial in honing her acting skills and gaining initial recognition as a performer, laying the foundation for her transition to the emerging medium of film.

Florence made her film debut, marking the beginning of her cinematic career. Though details surrounding this appearance are somewhat scarce, it signified her entry into the rapidly growing world of motion pictures, where she would soon find significant success.

Florence's career soared when she began starring in films for Biograph Studios. Because actors weren't credited by name at the time, she became known as "The Biograph Girl." Her natural acting style and appealing on-screen presence quickly made her a favorite among moviegoers, establishing her as one of the first recognizable and beloved film personalities.

Florence made a bold move by leaving Biograph to join Carl Laemmle's Independent Moving Pictures (IMP), later Universal Pictures. Laemmle publicly revealed her identity, a revolutionary act at the time, solidifying her status as the first movie star. This shift marked a pivotal point in her career and the industry's recognition of actors' market value.

The 1910s were Lawrence's most successful years. She starred in numerous popular films, commanded high salaries, and enjoyed widespread recognition as a leading lady. Her fame helped to popularize the burgeoning film industry and contributed to the development of celebrity culture.

A severe accident during filming led to injuries from which she never fully recovered. This marked the beginning of a decline in her health and her career. The injury significantly hampered her ability to perform and ultimately contributed to her professional downfall.

After her injury, Florence struggled to regain her former status. She attempted a comeback but found it difficult to secure leading roles. She dabbled in business ventures, including a cosmetics company and an invention for signaling arms on automobiles (though the latter’s claim to innovation is debated). These ventures proved unsuccessful, leading to further financial strain.

In her later years, Florence accepted uncredited bit parts in films to make ends meet. This was a stark contrast to her earlier fame and recognition, highlighting the transient nature of stardom and the challenges faced by aging actors in Hollywood's competitive environment. She essentially worked as an extra on sets where she was once a star.

Beset by chronic pain, depression, and financial hardship, Florence Lawrence tragically died by suicide in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 52. Her death marked a somber end to a life that had experienced both extraordinary highs and devastating lows, prompting reflection on the treatment of early film stars and the pressures of fame.