American movie stars died in 2003
Here are 50 famous actresses from United States of America died in 2003:
Sheila Bromley
Sheila Bromley (October 31, 1911 San Francisco-July 23, 2003 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Shiela Bromley, Sheila Mannors, Sheila Manners, Shiela Mannors, Sheila Manors, Sheila Manners-Bromley, Sheila Fulton, Sheila LeGay or Sheila Le Gay was an American actor.
She appeared in over 120 films and television shows between 1929 and 1961. Some of her notable film credits include "Public Enemy's Wife" (1936), "Nancy Steele is Missing!" (1937), "The Lone Wolf Spy Hunt" (1939), and "The Shadow" (1940). In addition to her work in film, Bromley also appeared in various television shows in the 1950s and 1960s, including "The Adventures of Wild Bill Hickok," "The Lone Ranger," and "Perry Mason." She was married three times and had two children. After retiring from acting, Bromley became a successful real estate agent in Los Angeles.
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Mary Ann Jackson
Mary Ann Jackson (January 14, 1923 Los Angeles-December 17, 2003 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Our Gang was an American actor and child actor.
Mary Ann Jackson began her career as a child actor in the 1920s and 1930s, appearing in numerous films and shorts including "Our Gang," "Little Rascals," and "The Song of Bernadette." She was known for her cheerful and energetic performances, and became a popular figure among audiences. After leaving the film industry in the 1940s, Jackson went on to work in a variety of jobs including real estate and as a salesperson. Despite her success as a child actor, she did not return to the entertainment industry. In 1993, she was inducted into the "Our Gang" Hall of Fame, recognizing her contribution to the series. Mary Ann Jackson passed away in 2003 at the age of 80 from complications of a stroke.
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Jinx Falkenburg
Jinx Falkenburg (January 21, 1919 Barcelona-August 27, 2003 Manhasset) a.k.a. Eugenia Lincoln Falkenburg, jinx_falkenburg, Jinx McCrary, Jinx Falconburg or Jinx Falken was an American actor and model. She had two children, Kevin Jock McCrary and John Reagan McCrary III.
Jinx Falkenburg was famous for her work as a model in the 1930s and 1940s. She was known for her stunning beauty and grace, and was one of the highest-paid models of her time. She appeared on the covers of many magazines, including Life and Vogue, and was a popular pin-up girl during World War II. In addition to her modeling career, Falkenburg also had a successful career in Hollywood, appearing in films such as "Cover Girl" and "The Heavenly Body". She was also an accomplished tennis player, and won the national doubles championship in 1941. After her retirement from modeling and acting, Falkenburg became a successful businesswoman, launching her own line of cosmetics and beauty products. She was also an active philanthropist, working with several charities and donating generously to various causes throughout her life.
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Janice Rule
Janice Rule (August 15, 1931 Norwood-October 17, 2003 Manhattan) otherwise known as Mary Janice Rule was an American actor and psychologist. Her children are called Elizabeth Gazzara and Kate Thom Fitzgerald.
Janice Rule began her acting career in the early 1950s, appearing in a number of theater productions, including the Broadway production of "Dream Girl" in 1951. She later transitioned to film and television, where she appeared in a variety of roles in both genres throughout the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.
In addition to her acting career, Rule went on to become a licensed psychologist, specializing in children and family therapy. She worked as a therapist for over two decades, while continuing to occasionally act in film and television.
Rule was also known for her personal life, which included high-profile marriages to actor Ben Gazzara and screenwriter Robert Thom. She was a contemporary of many iconic figures in Hollywood, including Marlon Brando and director Elia Kazan.
Janice Rule passed away in 2003 at the age of 72 in Manhattan, leaving behind a legacy as both a talented actor and a respected psychologist.
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Susan French
Susan French (January 23, 1912 Los Angeles-April 6, 2003 Santa Monica) was an American actor, businessperson and puppeteer.
French's acting career spanned over five decades from the 1930s to 1980s. She appeared in over 90 films and television shows, including notable roles in "The Four Skulls of Jonathan Drake" and "The Man Who Knew Too Much". In addition to her acting career, French was also a successful businessperson. She owned and operated a successful nightclub in Los Angeles during the 1950s and 1960s. French was also an accomplished puppeteer, having performed on the hit television show "Kukla, Fran and Ollie". She was married twice and had one child. French passed away in 2003 at the age of 91.
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Louise Platt
Louise Platt (August 3, 1915 Stamford-September 6, 2003 Greenport) was an American actor.
She is best known for her role as Beth in the film "Shane" (1953). Platt also appeared in several other films, such as "The Last Hurrah" (1958), "The Time Machine" (1960), and "The Parent Trap" (1961). She had a successful career in theater, appearing in numerous Broadway shows, including "Blithe Spirit" and "The King and I". Platt was also active in television, making appearances on popular shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "Perry Mason". Apart from acting, Platt was passionate about nature conservation and was actively involved in the cause. She passed away at the age of 88 in Greenport, New York.
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Barbara Weeks
Barbara Weeks (July 4, 1913 Somerville-June 24, 2003 Las Vegas) also known as Sue Kingsley or Barbara Weekes was an American actor. She had one child, Schuyler John Wing Cox.
Barbara Weeks began her acting career in the 1920s, appearing in numerous films throughout the 1930s and 1940s. She started young, at only six years old, appearing in "The Daring Years" and went on to act in over 120 films, often playing the leading lady or the secondary female character. Her films included "Bulldog Drummond Strikes Back" (1934), "Dangerous Intrigue" (1936), and "Gangsters of the Frontier" (1944).
Weeks also worked in television, appearing in programs such as "The Cisco Kid" and "The Lone Ranger". In later life, she worked as a real estate agent in Las Vegas.
Despite her prolific acting career, Weeks is perhaps best known for her role as the voice of Clara Bell the Cow in the Disney animated classic "Dumbo" (1941). Weeks passed away at the age of 89 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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Beth Marion
Beth Marion (July 11, 1912 Clinton-February 18, 2003 Jacksonville) also known as Betty Goettsche or Betty Lloyd was an American actor. She had two children, Garrett Lloyd Lyons and Clifford Russell Lyons.
Beth Marion was best known for her work in Western films during the 1930s and 1940s. She appeared in numerous movies alongside popular actors like Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. In addition to her acting career, Marion was also a talented musician and singer, often showcasing her skills in her films. Throughout her career, she appeared in over 70 films and was a beloved presence in Hollywood. In her later years, she retired from acting and lived a quiet life in Florida with her family. Marion passed away on February 18, 2003, at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most prominent actresses of the Western genre.
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Lynne Thigpen
Lynne Thigpen (December 22, 1948 Joliet-March 12, 2003 Marina del Rey) otherwise known as Cherlynne Thigpen, Lynne Richmond, Lynn Thigpen, Cherlynne Theresa Thigpen, Cherlynne Theresa “Lynne” Thigpen or Thigpen, Lynne was an American actor, teacher and voice actor.
She was best known for her role as "The Chief" in the PBS educational series "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?" as well as earning a Tony Award for her performance in the Broadway production of "An American Daughter." Thigpen also appeared in numerous films including "Lean On Me," "The Warriors," and "Bicentennial Man." In addition to her acting career, Thigpen was a dedicated educator who taught drama and speech at her alma mater, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She passed away in 2003 from a cerebral hemorrhage at the age of 54.
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June Carter Cash
June Carter Cash (June 23, 1929 Maces Spring-May 15, 2003 Nashville) also known as Cash, June Carter, June Carter, Valerie June Carter, june_carter_cash or Valerie June Carter Cash was an American singer, singer-songwriter, comedian, actor, musician, author and dancer. She had four children, Carlene Carter, John Carter Cash, Rosie Nix Adams and Rosanne Cash.
Carter began her career in music as part of her family's band, The Carter Family. She later went on to have a successful solo career, releasing albums such as "Press On" and "Wildwood Flower." Carter also co-wrote several hit songs with her husband, country music icon Johnny Cash, including "Ring of Fire" and "Jackson."
In addition to her music career, Carter appeared in several films and television shows, including "The Apostle" and "Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman." She was also known for her comedic talents, often incorporating humor into her live performances.
Carter was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1973 and the Gospel Music Association's Hall of Fame in 2009. She passed away in 2003 at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy as one of country music's most beloved performers.
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Miriam Byrd Nethery
Miriam Byrd Nethery (May 17, 1929 Lewisville-January 6, 2003 Los Angeles) also known as Miriam Byrd, Miriam-Byrd Nethery, Miriam Byrd Nethery or Miriam Byrd Nethery Gulager was an American actor. Her children are called John Gulager and Tom Gulager.
Miriam Byrd Nethery was born in Lewisville, Texas on May 17, 1929. She started her acting career in the late 1950s, appearing in popular TV shows such as "Gunsmoke" and "Perry Mason". In 1963, she starred in the movie "The Terror", alongside Boris Karloff and Jack Nicholson. She appeared in numerous other films and TV shows throughout her career, including "Bonanza" and "The Andy Griffith Show".
Aside from her acting career, Nethery was also a painter and sculptor. She studied art at the University of Texas and later co-founded the Santa Monica Art Studios in California.
In 1964, Nethery married actor Clu Gulager, with whom she had two sons, John and Tom. Both of her sons went on to become actors and filmmakers. Nethery remained married to Gulager until her death on January 6, 2003 in Los Angeles, California.
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Kathie Browne
Kathie Browne (September 19, 1930 San Luis Obispo-April 8, 2003 Beverly Hills) otherwise known as Jacqueline Katherine Browne, Kathie Brown, Kathy Brown, Cathey Browne, Cathy Browne, Katherine Browne or Kathie Browne McGavin was an American actor.
Browne gained recognition for her work in the western genre, specifically for her role as Lily Merrill, the love interest of James Arness' character, in the television series Gunsmoke. She also appeared in various other television shows such as The Twilight Zone, Perry Mason, and The Rockford Files.
Browne was married to actor and director Gene Barry for 36 years until her death. The couple had three children together. In addition to her acting career, Browne was an accomplished sculptor and painter. She often used pseudonyms when exhibiting her artwork to avoid it being associated with her celebrity status. Browne passed away due to natural causes at the age of 72.
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Noel Toy
Noel Toy (December 27, 1918 San Francisco-December 24, 2003 San Francisco) a.k.a. Chinese Sally Rand, Noel Toy Young or Ngun Yee was an American actor and exotic dancer.
She was one of the few Asian-American women to achieve mainstream success in the entertainment industry during the mid-20th century. Toy began her career as a dancer in the San Francisco Chinatown nightclub scene before moving to Hollywood in the 1940s. She appeared in several films and television shows, often playing stereotypical Asian characters.
Toy was also known for her work as a burlesque performer and is credited with helping to popularize the fan dance. She performed with fellow burlesque icon Sally Rand and was sometimes called "Chinese Sally Rand" due to her association with the fan dance.
After retiring from show business, Toy became active in community organizations and worked to promote Asian-American culture and history. She was inducted into the National Women's History Museum in 2020.
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Lise Thomsen
Lise Thomsen (December 26, 1914 Florida-November 26, 2003 Denmark) a.k.a. Lise Louise Kildedahl Thomsen was an American actor.
Thomsen was born and raised in Florida but later moved to Denmark. She began her acting career at the Royal Danish Theatre in Copenhagen in the late 1930s. Thomsen's talent and skill as an actor quickly earned her the admiration and respect of audiences and fellow actors alike. She went on to star in numerous Danish films and television shows throughout the 1940s, 50s, and 60s, cementing her status as a beloved icon of Danish entertainment. In addition to her successful acting career, Thomsen was also an accomplished writer and translator, and wrote several popular books on Danish culture and history. She passed away in 2003 at the age of 88, but her legacy as one of Denmark's most celebrated actors endures to this day.
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Nell Carter
Nell Carter (September 13, 1948 Birmingham-January 23, 2003 Beverly Hills) also known as Nell Ruth Hardy, Carter, Nell, Nell Ruth Carter or Nell-Ruth Carter was an American singer and actor. She had three children, Daniel Carter, Tracy Carter and Joshua Carter.
Nell Carter rose to fame in the late 1970s for her Tony Award-winning performance in the Broadway musical "Ain't Misbehavin" and later became a household name for her role as the housekeeper, Nell Harper, in the hit sitcom "Gimme a Break!" which aired from 1981 to 1987. In addition to her successful careers on stage and screen, Carter was also known for her remarkable singing talent, which she showcased in a number of performances and recordings throughout her career. She battled with diabetes and drug addiction for many years, and tragically passed away at the age of 54 due to complications following a brain aneurysm. Despite her struggles, Nell Carter left behind a lasting legacy as a talented performer who brought joy and laughter to audiences around the world.
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Lana Clarkson
Lana Clarkson (April 5, 1962 Long Beach-February 3, 2003 Alhambra) a.k.a. Lana Jean Clarkson was an American actor and fashion model.
Clarkson began her career as a fashion model in New York City before transitioning to acting. She made her film debut in the 1982 film "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" and went on to appear in numerous television shows and movies. She was perhaps best known for her role in the cult classic film "Barbarian Queen" (1985).
In addition to her acting career, Clarkson was also a successful nightclub hostess and had worked at the House of Blues in Los Angeles. Tragically, she was shot and killed by record producer Phil Spector at his mansion. Spector was ultimately found guilty of second-degree murder and sentenced to 19 years to life in prison. Clarkson's death remains a subject of controversy and fascination to this day.
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Kellie Waymire
Kellie Waymire (July 27, 1967 Columbus-November 13, 2003 Los Angeles) also known as Kellie Suzanne Waymire was an American actor.
She is famous for her roles in hit TV series and movies such as Star Trek: Enterprise, Six Feet Under, and The X-Files. Waymire was born and brought up in Columbus, Ohio, and went on to study at the DePaul University's Goodman School of Drama in Chicago to pursue her passion for acting. She made her debut in the entertainment industry in 1995 with the movie "Let It Be Me". She gained prominence with her portrayal of Dr. Elizabeth Cutler in the science-fiction TV series, Star Trek: Enterprise.
Waymire had a successful career in Hollywood until her untimely death in 2003 at the age of 36. She passed away due to heart failure that resulted from an undiagnosed cardiac arrhythmia. She was survived by her husband, actor Archie Drury, and their young son. Waymire is remembered by her fans and colleagues in the industry as a talented actor who made a significant contribution to the entertainment industry during her short-lived career.
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Karen Morley
Karen Morley (December 12, 1909 Ottumwa-March 8, 2003 Woodland Hills) also known as Mildred Linton was an American actor. She had one child, Michael Karoly.
Karen Morley began her acting career in the 1920s and rose to fame in the 1930s through her performances in films such as "Scarface" (1932) and "Our Daily Bread" (1934). She was an outspoken supporter of labor and social justice causes, and her political activism ultimately led to her being blacklisted in Hollywood during the 1950s. In later years, she worked as a stage actress, and also taught drama at several universities. Despite her controversial past, Morley's talent and contributions to the film industry have secured her a place in Hollywood history.
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Dorothy Fay
Dorothy Fay (April 4, 1915 Prescott-November 5, 2003 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Dorothy Alice Fay Southworth, Dorothy Fay Ritter, Dorothy Faye or Dorothy Fay Southworth was an American actor. She had two children, John Ritter and Tom Ritter.
Dorothy Fay began her acting career in the mid-1930s with uncredited roles in several films. She quickly rose to fame in the late 1930s and 1940s, appearing in over 60 films throughout her career. Some of her notable roles include "The Lone Ranger Rides Again" (1939), "The Girl from Mexico" (1939), "Bells of Rosarita" (1945), and "The Strawberry Roan" (1948).
Apart from her film career, Dorothy Fay was also a talented singer and performed in several music revues throughout her career. She was also a regular on the radio show "The Rudy Vallee Hour" during the 1940s.
Dorothy Fay was married three times, with her second marriage being to the famous western actor Tex Ritter. They had two children together, including the actor John Ritter. She later married the producer/director George Harrison, with whom she remained until his death in 2001.
Dorothy Fay retired from acting in the mid-1950s to focus on raising her children. She lived a full life, passing away in 2003 at the age of 88.
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Madlyn Rhue
Madlyn Rhue (October 3, 1935 Washington, D.C.-December 16, 2003 Woodland Hills) otherwise known as Madleine Roche, Madeline Solomon, Madelyn Rhue, Madlyn Young, Madeline Rhue, Madlyn Soloman Rhue or Madeleine Roche was an American actor.
Rhue began her acting career in the mid-1950s and appeared in a variety of films and TV shows throughout the 1960s and 1970s. She was known for her roles in films such as "A Majority of One" (1961), "Operation C.I.A." (1965), and "The Sporting Club" (1971). She also made guest appearances on TV shows like "The Twilight Zone," "Bonanza," and "I Spy."
Rhue was nominated for a Golden Globe award for her performance in the TV movie "The Hanged Man" (1964). In addition to her acting career, Rhue was also an accomplished writer, publishing several novels and short stories throughout her life. Rhue passed away in 2003 at the age of 68.
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Andrea King
Andrea King (February 1, 1919 Paris-April 22, 2003 Woodland Hills) also known as Georgette André Barry or Georgette McKee was an American actor. She had one child, Deb Callahan.
Andrea King began her career as a stage actress before transitioning to film in the 1940s. She was discovered by a talent scout while performing in a Los Angeles play and was later signed by Warner Bros. She appeared in over 30 films during her career, including "The Beast with Five Fingers," "The Sword of Monte Cristo," and "Hotel Berlin." She was also a popular pin-up model during World War II, appearing in magazines such as Yank and Esquire. In addition to her acting career, King was a strong advocate for mental health awareness and worked as a volunteer for the Los Angeles chapter of the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill. She passed away in 2003 at the age of 84.
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Victoria Horne
Victoria Horne (November 1, 1911 New York City-October 10, 2003 Beverly Hills) a.k.a. Vickie or Victoria Horne Oakie was an American actor.
She began her career as a chorus girl on Broadway and later transitioned to film and television. Some of her notable film roles include "The Big Sleep" (1946) and "The Women" (1939). Horne also had recurring roles on various television shows like "The Jack Benny Program" and "Perry Mason." In addition to her acting career, she was also known for being the wife of actor Jack Oakie. Horne passed away at the age of 91 in Beverly Hills, California.
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Ellen Drew
Ellen Drew (November 23, 1915 Kansas City-December 3, 2003 Palm Desert) also known as Esther Loretta Ray, Terry Ray or Terry was an American actor. Her child is called David Wallace.
Ellen Drew began her acting career in the late 1930s and appeared in over 70 films throughout her career, including "Christmas in July" (1940), "The Monster and the Girl" (1941), and "Isle of the Dead" (1945). She also worked in radio and television, appearing on popular shows such as "Perry Mason" and "The Twilight Zone". In addition to her acting work, Drew was also an accomplished singer and dancer. She retired from acting in the early 1960s and spent her later years living in Palm Desert with her family. Ellen Drew passed away in 2003 at the age of 88.
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Addie McPhail
Addie McPhail (July 15, 1905 White Plains-April 14, 2003 Canoga Park) also known as Addie Oakley Dukes, Addie Oakley Sheldon or Addie Oakley Dukes McPhail was an American actor. Her child is called Marilyn McPhail.
Addie McPhail was born on July 15, 1905, in White Plains, New York, and began her acting career in the 1920s. She appeared in over 100 films and television shows during her career, often playing supporting roles. McPhail was known for her versatility and ability to portray a wide range of characters, from sweet and innocent to tough and no-nonsense. Some of her notable film appearances include "The Crowd Roars" (1932), "The Sin of Madelon Claudet" (1931), and "Blondie of the Follies" (1932).
In addition to her work in films, McPhail also appeared on stage, including productions of "The Women" and "The Man Who Came to Dinner." She retired from acting in the 1950s to focus on raising her daughter.
McPhail was married twice, first to composer Joseph Sheldon and later to radio personality Gregg Dukes. She passed away on April 14, 2003, in Canoga Park, California, at the age of 97.
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Lesley Woods
Lesley Woods (August 22, 1910 Berwick-August 2, 2003 Los Angeles) was an American actor.
Woods began her career as a stage actor before transitioning to television and film in the 1950s. She is best known for her role as Betty Anderson, the mother of Donna Reed's character, in the popular television series "The Donna Reed Show" in the 1960s. Woods also appeared in several other TV shows including "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" and "The Twilight Zone". In addition, she had film roles in "The Desert Rats" and "The Big Heat". Later in life, Woods was actively involved in various charitable organizations and received recognition for her philanthropic work.
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Julie Parrish
Julie Parrish (October 21, 1940 Middlesboro-October 1, 2003 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Ruby Joyce Wilbar or Joyce Wilbar was an American actor.
She was best known for her roles in television series such as "The Young Marrieds" (1964-1966) and "Capitol" (1983-1987), and her appearances in films like "Fourteen Hours" (1951) and "The Time Travelers" (1964). Parrish began her career at the age of 18 as a model and soon moved to acting. She appeared in many TV commercials and made guest appearances on popular shows such as "Gunsmoke" and "Perry Mason." In addition to acting, Parrish was also involved in philanthropic work, and she founded a nonprofit organization that provided clothing for underprivileged children. Unfortunately, Parrish passed away from ovarian cancer at the age of 62.
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Bernice Claire
Bernice Claire (March 22, 1907 Oakland-January 17, 2003 Portland) also known as Bernice Janighen or Bernice Jahnigan was an American actor and singer.
Claire began her acting career on Broadway in the 1920s, and later made her way to Hollywood where she appeared in a number of films in the 1930s and 40s. She was known for her singing voice, and often performed musical numbers in her films.
Some of her notable film roles include "The Love Parade" (1929), "One Heavenly Night" (1931), and "Big City Blues" (1932). Claire also appeared in several television shows in the 1950s and 60s, including "The Jack Benny Program" and "Perry Mason".
In addition to her acting career, Claire was a trained opera singer and performed in several stage productions throughout her career. She was also a skilled songwriter, and wrote several popular songs in the 1930s, including "If I Had My Way".
Claire retired from acting in the 1960s and moved to Oregon, where she remained active in the arts community. She was inducted into the Oregon Music Hall of Fame in 2007, shortly after her death at the age of 95.
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Celia Cruz
Celia Cruz (October 21, 1925 Havana-July 16, 2003 Fort Lee) a.k.a. Cellia Cruz, Úrsula Hilaria Celia de la Caridad Cruz Alfonso, The Queen of Salsa Music, Cruz, Celia, Sonora Matancera con Celia Cruz, La Guarachera de Cuba, La Guarachera del Mundo, La Reina de la Salsa, Úrsula Hilaria Celia de la Caridad Cruz Alfonso de la Santísima Trinidad or Cella Cruz was an American singer and actor.
Born in Havana, Cuba, Celia Cruz had a career in music that spanned over five decades. She started her career as a singer in Cuba, performing with the popular group Sonora Matancera. In 1960, she left Cuba and moved to the United States, where she continued to record and perform. Her music blended elements of Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz, salsa, and other genres.
Throughout her career, Cruz won numerous awards, including several Grammy Awards and the National Medal of Arts. She was also inducted into the International Latin Music Hall of Fame and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
Celia Cruz was not only a talented musician, but also an advocate for humanitarian causes. She worked with several organizations to support children's health, education, and other social issues.
Cruz sadly passed away in 2003 at the age of 77, but her music continues to inspire and influence artists around the world.
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Florence Stanley
Florence Stanley (July 1, 1924 Chicago-October 3, 2003 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Florence Schwartz was an American actor and voice actor.
She was best known for her roles on television shows such as "Barney Miller" and "My Two Dads". Stanley also had a successful career in voice acting, lending her voice to characters in animated series like "Dinosaurs" and "The Angry Beavers". In addition to her acting work, she also served as a board member of the Screen Actors Guild and was a strong advocate for better working conditions for actors. She passed away in 2003 at the age of 79.
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Carol Grace
Carol Grace (September 11, 1924 Lower East Side-July 20, 2003 New York City) a.k.a. Carol Marcus Saroyan, Carol Matthau, Carol Grace Marcus, Carol Marcus or Mrs. Walter Matthau was an American writer, author and actor. She had three children, Charles Matthau, Aram Saroyan and Lucy Saroyan.
Carol Grace first rose to fame as an actor, appearing in films such as "The Big Lift" (1950) and "Underwater!" (1955). She also made several appearances on television shows like "The Bob Hope Show" and "The Ed Sullivan Show." Later on in her career, Carol also tried her hand at writing and published several novels, including "Wayward Angel" (1986) and "The Secret Keeping" (1998). In addition to her work as a writer and actor, Carol was also known for her marriages to two famous men: the writer William Saroyan and the actor Walter Matthau. She passed away from lung cancer in 2003 at the age of 78.
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Suzy Parker
Suzy Parker (October 28, 1932 San Antonio-May 3, 2003 Montecito) otherwise known as Cecilia Ann Renee Parker, Suzy Parker Dillman, Suzy or parker was an American actor and model. She had four children, Dinah Dillman, Charles Dillman, Christopher Dillman and Georgia de la Salle.
Parker was discovered by a photographer at the age of 15 and began her modeling career shortly thereafter. She quickly became one of the most in-demand models of the 1950s, known for her striking beauty and graceful poise. She appeared on the covers of many prestigious magazines and worked with top designers such as Coco Chanel and Christian Dior.
In addition to her modeling career, Parker also had a successful acting career. She made her film debut in the 1957 movie "Funny Face" alongside Fred Astaire and Audrey Hepburn. She went on to appear in a number of other films, including "Kiss Them for Me" and "The Interns."
Parker's personal life was marked by tragedy, including the death of her daughter Georgia at the age of 14 from an accidental gunshot wound. She struggled with alcoholism throughout her life and ultimately died from complications related to the disease at the age of 70.
Despite her personal struggles, Parker is remembered as one of the most iconic models of the 20th century, paving the way for future generations of models to come.
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Eileen Rodgers
Eileen Rodgers (July 10, 1930 Pittsburgh-July 13, 2003 Charlotte) also known as Rodgers, Eileen was an American singer and actor.
Eileen Rodgers began her career as a singer in the 1950s and quickly gained popularity with hits such as "The Wall" and "I Want You Now". She also acted in several films and TV shows, including "The Ed Sullivan Show" and "The Red Skelton Show". In addition to her successful career in entertainment, Rodgers was an activist for women's rights and was involved in various charity organizations. She continued to perform and record music until her death in 2003.
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Ellen Idelson
Ellen Idelson (June 13, 1961 Los Angeles-September 19, 2003) was an American actor.
She studied theater and acting at the Yale School of Drama and began her career on stage. Idelson appeared in a number of films and TV shows during the 1990s and 2000s, including "ER", "NYPD Blue", and "The West Wing". She was also a successful voice actress, lending her voice to several animated TV series such as "Batman: The Animated Series" and "Superman: The Animated Series". Idelson was known for her versatile acting skills and her ability to bring depth and nuance to her performances. She passed away at the age of 42 due to complications from breast cancer.
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Dorothy Loudon
Dorothy Loudon (September 17, 1925 Boston-November 15, 2003 New York City) a.k.a. Loudon, Dorothy or Dotty was an American singer and actor.
She started her career in the 1950s on the Broadway stage, performing in shows such as "Nowhere to Go But Up" and "The Fig Leaves Are Falling". In 1977, she won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role as Miss Hannigan in "Annie". Loudon continued to perform on stage throughout the 1980s and 1990s, and also appeared in several films and television shows. Despite facing health challenges later in life, she remained dedicated to her craft and continued to work until her death in 2003.
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Katharine Hepburn
Katharine Hepburn (May 12, 1907 Hartford-June 29, 2003 Fenwick) also known as Katharine Houghton Hepburn, Kate, First Lady of Cinema, The Great Kate, Katherine Hepburn or Jimmy was an American actor.
She was born into a wealthy and prominent family, and her parents encouraged her to pursue her love of acting from a young age. She made her Broadway debut in 1928 and soon became a star of both stage and screen. Known for her fiercely independent personality and her unique, androgynous style, she quickly became one of Hollywood's biggest box office draws in the 1930s and 1940s. Throughout her long and illustrious career, she appeared in a wide variety of roles and was known for her impeccable timing, sharp wit, and depth of emotion. She won four Academy Awards for Best Actress during her career, a record that remains unbroken to this day. In addition to her acting work, Hepburn was also a committed feminist and civil rights advocate, and she remained active in both areas throughout her life.
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Frances Morris
Frances Morris (August 3, 1908 Springfield-December 2, 2003 Santa Clarita) a.k.a. Frances Wright or Francis Morris was an American actor.
Morris began her acting career in the 1930s, primarily appearing on stage in New York City. She later moved to Hollywood and appeared in over 70 films throughout her career. Morris was known for her versatile acting ability, and portrayed a range of characters from comedic roles to more serious ones.
Some of Morris' notable film credits include "Gone with the Wind" (1939), "Jezebel" (1938), and "The Shop Around the Corner" (1940). Morris also worked in television, including appearances on shows such as "Dragnet" and "The Twilight Zone."
Aside from her acting work, Morris was active in various charitable organizations and was known for her philanthropy. She died in 2003 at the age of 95.
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Fay Helm
Fay Helm (April 9, 1909 Bakersfield-September 27, 2003 Santa Monica) was an American actor.
She began her acting career in the 1930s and was primarily known for her supporting roles in a number of popular films of that era. Helm was most well-known for her appearance in the classic 1942 film, "Casablanca", where she played the role of the Nazi-sympathizing Bulgarian, Mrs. Leuchtag. She also appeared in other notable films, including "Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man" (1943) and "The Lone Ranger" (1949). Helm retired from acting in the 1950s and lived a quiet life until her death in 2003 at the age of 94.
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Elaine Barrie
Elaine Barrie (July 16, 1915 New York City-March 1, 2003 New York City) also known as Elaine Jacobs or Elaine Barrie Barrymore was an American actor and businessperson.
Barrie began her acting career in the late 1920s in a series of uncredited roles before breaking through with a starring role in the 1935 film "The Great Hotel Murder". She went on to appear in over 25 films throughout the 1930s and 1940s, often playing sultry, femme fatale-type characters.
In the 1950s, Barrie transitioned into business, opening a successful travel agency in New York City. She later expanded her business ventures, including managing several apartment buildings and investing in real estate.
Despite her success as a businesswoman, Barrie remained involved in the entertainment industry, and in the 1960s she produced several off-Broadway plays. She was also known for hosting lavish parties and socializing with the Hollywood elite.
Barrie was married three times, including to actor John Barrymore Jr. She had two children, including actor John Drew Barrymore.
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Julie Mitchum
Julie Mitchum (July 23, 1914 Charleston-February 21, 2003 Sun City) also known as Annette Mitchum was an American actor.
She was the elder sister of famous Hollywood actor Robert Mitchum. Julie began her acting career with small uncredited roles in the films "Half a Sinner"(1940) and "The Corsican Brothers" (1941) before being cast in her first credited role in the film "The Falcon's Brother" (1942). She went on to appear in several other films including "Tulsa" (1949), "The Big Steal" (1949), "Wagon Master" (1950), and "Act of Violence" (1949). In addition to acting, she also co-wrote the screenplay for the film "Thunder Road" (1958), which starred her brother Robert Mitchum. In later years, Julie devoted herself to charitable organizations and worked as an advocate for victims of domestic violence.
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Penny Singleton
Penny Singleton (September 15, 1908 Philadelphia-November 12, 2003 Sherman Oaks) a.k.a. Mariana Dorothy Agnes Letitia McNulty, Dorothy McNulty, Marianna Dorothy Agnes Letitia McNulty, Penny, Penny McNulty, Penny "Blondie Bumstead" Singleton or Blondie Bumstead was an American actor, singer, voice actor and dancer.
She is best known for her portrayal of Blondie Bumstead in the Blondie film series, which consisted of 28 movies from 1938 to 1950. Singleton began her career as a child performer in vaudeville in the 1920s and later transitioned to film and radio. She also provided the voice for Jane Jetson in the popular cartoon, The Jetsons. Outside of her acting career, Singleton was an accomplished athlete and was a member of the Roller Derby Hall of Fame. She was married twice and had two children. Singleton passed away in 2003 at the age of 95.
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Paula Raymond
Paula Raymond (November 23, 1924 San Francisco-December 31, 2003 West Hollywood) otherwise known as Paula Ramona Wright, Paula Rae Wright or Rae Patterson was an American actor and model. She had one child, Raeme Dorene Patterson.
Raymond started as a model in the early 1940s and was eventually discovered by MGM Studios, leading her way to Hollywood. She appeared in various films and television shows throughout the 1950s and 1960s; some of her notable credits include the films "The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms" (1953) and "Blood of Dracula" (1957), as well as TV series such as "Perry Mason," "The Twilight Zone," and "Alfred Hitchcock Presents." She was also a regular on the TV series "Gidget" in the 1960s. Raymond was known for her natural beauty and her sweet, girl-next-door charm, often playing supporting roles as the love interest or loyal friend. She retired from acting in the mid-1970s and lived the rest of her life in California.
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Martha Scott
Martha Scott (September 22, 1912 Jamesport-May 28, 2003 Van Nuys) also known as Martha Ellen Scott was an American actor. She had three children, Kathleen Powell, Carlton Scott Alsop and Mary Powell Harpel.
Martha Scott was born in Jamesport, Missouri, and grew up in Kansas City. She graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in drama, and later studied at the Pasadena Playhouse in California.
Scott's career in film began in 1940 when she was cast as Emily Webb in the original stage production of Thornton Wilder's "Our Town." She was then cast in the film adaptation of the play, earning a Best Actress Oscar nomination for her role. She went on to star in a number of films throughout the 1940s and 50s, including "The Howards of Virginia" and "The Ten Commandments."
Aside from her film work, Scott was also a prominent stage actor, appearing in productions of "The Glass Menagerie," "The Time of Your Life," and "The Heiress," among others.
In addition to her acting career, Scott was also an advocate for several charitable causes, including the National Parkinson Foundation and the United Cerebral Palsy Association.
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Anne Gwynne
Anne Gwynne (December 10, 1918 Waco-March 31, 2003 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Marguerite Gwynne Trice was an American pin-up girl, actor and model. She had two children, Gwynne Gilford and Gregory Gilford.
Anne Gwynne began her career as a model and a pin-up girl in the late 1930s. She soon gained popularity and caught the attention of Hollywood, debuting in the 1939 film "Unexpected Father". She starred in a number of B-movies and was known for her roles in horror films such as "Black Friday" and "House of Frankenstein". However, she also appeared in a significant number of westerns and comedies throughout her career.
In addition to her work as an actor, Anne Gwynne was also an active participant in the war effort during World War II, performing at USO shows and serving as a Vice President of the Hollywood Canteen, a club for servicemen.
After retiring from acting in the early 1950s, Anne Gwynne became a successful real estate agent in the San Fernando Valley. She remained revered as an icon of the Golden Age of Hollywood until her passing in 2003 at the age of 84.
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Ruth Hall
Ruth Hall (December 29, 1910 Jacksonville-October 9, 2003 Glendale) also known as Ruth Blasco, Ruth Hall Garmes or Ruth Gloria Blasco Ibáñez was an American actor.
She appeared in over 50 films from the 1920s through the 1930s, including small roles in classics such as "Gone with the Wind" and "Beau Geste". She was also a popular leading lady in B-movies and serials, most notably in "The Adventures of Captain Marvel" and "Zorro Rides Again". In addition to her film work, Hall acted on stage and appeared in radio dramas. She was married to cinematographer Ted J. Kent and later to Harold Garmes, also a cinematographer. After retiring from acting, Hall had a successful career as a real estate agent. She passed away on October 9, 2003, in Glendale, California at the age of 92.
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Hope Lange
Hope Lange (November 28, 1933 Redding-December 19, 2003 Santa Monica) also known as Hope Elise Ross Lange was an American actor. She had two children, Patricia Murray and Christopher Murray.
Hope Lange began her acting career in the 1950s, appearing in films such as "Bus Stop" and "Peyton Place," the latter earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She also appeared in numerous television shows, including "The Twilight Zone" and "The Ghost and Mrs. Muir."
In addition to her successful acting career, Lange was also a renowned photographer, with her work being exhibited in galleries across the United States. She also authored a book titled "In the Eye of the Storm: A Memoir."
Later in life, Lange suffered from health issues and passed away in 2003 at the age of 70. She is remembered as a talented and accomplished actor and artist.
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Elaine Anderson Steinbeck
Elaine Anderson Steinbeck (August 14, 1914 Austin-April 27, 2003 New York City) a.k.a. Elaine Anderson, Elaine Steinbeck, Elaine Scott or Elaine Anderson Scott was an American actor and stage manager. She had one child, Waverly Elaine Scott.
Elaine Anderson Steinbeck was born in Austin, Texas and grew up in Dallas. After earning a degree in drama from the University of Texas at Austin, she moved to New York City to pursue a career in theater. She worked as a stage manager for several Broadway productions in the 1940s and 1950s, including "Of Mice and Men," which is where she met and married author John Steinbeck in 1950.
In addition to her work in theater, Steinbeck was also involved in film and television. She appeared in small roles in movies such as "East of Eden" and "Viva Zapata!" and on TV shows such as "The Defenders" and "The Nurses." She also dabbled in writing, publishing a memoir about her time with Steinbeck entitled "The Only Woman in the Room" in 1990.
Steinbeck was an active member of her community, serving as a board member for several organizations including the New York Public Library and the National Steinbeck Center in California. She was also an advocate for the arts, helping to establish the Elaine Steinbeck Fund for New Writers at San Jose State University.
After her husband's death in 1968, Steinbeck continued to lead an active and fulfilling life, traveling extensively and staying involved in the arts until her own passing in 2003.
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Anne Gerety
Anne Gerety (July 3, 1926 New York City-October 25, 2003 Nissequogue) was an American actor and voice actor.
Gerety started her acting career in the 1950s and appeared in various television shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "Perry Mason". She also had roles in films such as "The Boston Strangler" and "Anatomy of a Murder". In addition to her on-screen work, Gerety was a prolific voice actor, supplying her voice to numerous animated series and commercials throughout her career. She was known for her distinct voice, which had a unique blend of warmth and authority. Gerety continued to work in the entertainment industry until her death in 2003 at the age of 77.
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Elisabeth Welch
Elisabeth Welch (February 27, 1904 New York City-July 15, 2003 Northwood, London) also known as Elizabeth Welch or Elisabeth Margaret Welch was an American actor, singer and entertainer.
She rose to fame in the 1920s performing in musical theater productions both in the United States and in Europe, and later went on to appear in films such as "The Importance of Being Earnest" (1952) and "The Inn of the Sixth Happiness" (1958). Despite facing racial discrimination in Hollywood, she continued to pursue her passion for acting and singing, becoming a well-known performer in the UK and appearing on major British television programs. Welch also recorded several albums throughout her career, showcasing her soulful voice and interpretation of jazz and popular standards. In addition to her entertainment career, she was known for her philanthropic work, supporting various charities and causes throughout her lifetime.
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Vera Ralston
Vera Ralston (July 12, 1919 Prague-February 9, 2003 Santa Barbara) also known as Věra Helena Hrubá, Vera Hruba Ralston, Vera Helena Hruba or Vera Hruba was an American actor and figure skater.
Vera Ralston was a well-known figure skater in Czechoslovakia before she moved to the United States in 1940. She began her acting career in 1943 with the film "Stormy Weather" and went on to star in numerous films, including "Saddle Pals" and "The Fighting Kentuckian". Ralston was often typecast in roles that required her to speak English with a heavy accent. In 1949, she married Herbert J. Yates, the head of Republic Pictures, and he cast her in many of his films. After Republic Pictures went bankrupt in 1959, Ralston retired from acting and focused on her personal life. She and Yates were married until his death in 1966. Ralston passed away in 2003 at the age of 83.
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Jeanne Crain
Jeanne Crain (May 25, 1925 Barstow-December 14, 2003 Santa Barbara) also known as Jeanne Elizabeth Crain or Hollywood's Number One party girl was an American actor. Her children are called Michael Brinkman, Maria Brinkman, Christopher Brinkman, Timothy Brinkman, Jeanine Brinkman, Lisabette Brinkman and Paul F. Brinkman Jr..
Jeanne Crain began her career as a beauty queen and model before transitioning into acting. She made her film debut in the 1943 film "The Gang's All Here" and went on to appear in over 70 films throughout her career. Some of her most notable roles include "State Fair", "Margie", and "A Letter to Three Wives". Crain was known for her wholesome and girl-next-door image in films. In addition to her acting career, she was also a popular pin-up girl during the 1940s and 1950s. Crain was married to Paul Brinkman for over 30 years and had seven children with him.
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