Famous movie actresses born in the year 1921
Here are 50 famous actresses from the world were born in 1921:
Pat McDonald
Pat McDonald (August 1, 1921 Melbourne-March 10, 1990 Australia) also known as Patricia Ethell McDonald or Patricia Ethell "Pat" McDonald was an Australian actor.
She began her acting career in the 1940s with small roles in Australian films such as Sons of Matthew and Bitter Springs. In the 1950s, she moved to England and appeared in numerous British television series including the long-running soap opera Coronation Street.
McDonald is perhaps best known for her role as Ada Fisher in the Australian soap opera Number 96, which ran from 1972 to 1977. She also appeared in other Australian television series such as Homicide and The Sullivans.
Aside from her acting career, McDonald was also a talented musician and performed at various venues throughout Australia. She passed away in 1990 at the age of 68.
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Bunney Brooke
Bunney Brooke (January 9, 1921 Golden Square-April 2, 2000 Manly) a.k.a. Bunny Brooke or Dorothy Cronin was an Australian actor.
Brooke began her career as a stage actress in the 1940s and later transitioned to film and television. She appeared in several popular Australian TV series including "Homicide," "The Sullivans," and "Prisoner." In addition to her acting work, Brooke also served as a drama teacher and mentor to many aspiring actors. She was awarded the Order of Australia in 1991 for her contribution to the performing arts. Brooke passed away in 2000 at the age of 79.
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Jane Freeman
Jane Freeman (March 15, 1921 London-) is a British actor.
Jane Freeman is best known for her role as Ivy in the popular British TV sitcom Last of the Summer Wine, which she played from 1984 until the end of the show's run in 2010. Freeman made her stage debut in her early 20s and went on to act in various TV shows, movies, and commercials throughout her career. She also appeared in shows such as The Benny Hill Show, Coronation Street, and Casualty. In 1993, Freeman was honored with a British Academy Television Award for Best Light Entertainment Performance for her portrayal of Ivy in Last of the Summer Wine. In addition to her acting career, Freeman was a dedicated animal rights activist and supported various animal welfare organizations.
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Jane Russell
Jane Russell (June 21, 1921 Bemidji-February 28, 2011 Santa Maria) also known as Ernestine Jane Geraldine Russell was an American model, actor and singer. She had three children, Tracy Waterfield, Thomas Waterfield and Robert Waterfield.
Jane Russell was born in Minnesota but grew up in California. In the 1940s, she gained national attention as a pin-up model, often photographed in revealing outfits. This led to her Hollywood career, with her debut in the Howard Hughes-produced film "The Outlaw" (1943).
She went on to star in several notable films, including "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" (1953), opposite Marilyn Monroe. Russell was also known for her singing career, releasing several albums throughout the 1950s and 1960s.
Beyond her entertainment career, Russell was a devoted Catholic and philanthropist. She founded the World Adoption International Fund and personally adopted several children from overseas. Russell was also a supporter of cancer research, a cause close to her heart after her own experience with the disease.
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Ann Savage
Ann Savage (February 19, 1921 Columbia-December 25, 2008 Hollywood) also known as Bernice Lyon or Bernice Maxine Lyon was an American actor.
Savage was best known for her role as Vera in the 1945 film noir "Detour." She began her career in the early 1940s, appearing in a number of B-movies before landing her breakthrough role in "Detour." After the success of the film, Savage continued to act in a variety of films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, though she never achieved the same level of fame she had with "Detour." In the 1960s, she transitioned to television work, appearing in popular shows such as "Perry Mason" and "The Twilight Zone." Savage took a break from acting in the 1970s and 1980s, but returned to the screen in the 1990s with roles in films like "Firecracker" and "Mighty Ducks the Movie: The First Face-Off." She continued to act sporadically until her death in 2008 at the age of 87.
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Giulietta Masina
Giulietta Masina (February 22, 1921 San Giorgio di Piano-March 23, 1994 Rome) also known as Giulia Anna Masina, Giulietta or female Chaplin was an Italian actor. Her child is called Pier Federico Fellini.
Giulietta Masina is best known for her collaboration with her husband, Federico Fellini, who directed her in several films - including the iconic "La Strada" and "Nights of Cabiria" - for which she received critical acclaim and awards. Masina's acting style was known for her ability to portray innocence, vulnerability, and wit. Prior to her film career, she was trained in physical theater and mime, which influenced her unique approach to acting. Masina's influence can still be seen in contemporary acting, and she remains a beloved figure in Italian cinema.
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Sheila Ryan
Sheila Ryan (June 8, 1921 Topeka-November 4, 1975 Woodland Hills) a.k.a. Katherine Elizabeth McLaughlin, Betty McLaughlin or Betty McLauglin was an American actor. Her child is called Kerry Buttram-Galgano.
Ryan started her career as a dancer before transitioning into acting. She appeared in over 60 films throughout the 1940s and 50s, including "Dillinger," "Song of the Thin Man," and "Canyon River." She also had roles on several television shows, including "Dragnet" and "The Lone Ranger."
Ryan was married to several notable actors, including James Craig and Allan Lane, before marrying actor Pat Buttram in 1962. After retiring from acting, Ryan devoted herself to philanthropy work, supporting various causes such as animal welfare and cancer research. She passed away in 1975 at the age of 54 from lung cancer.
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Joan Tetzel
Joan Tetzel (June 21, 1921 New York City-October 31, 1977 Fairwarp) also known as Joan Margaret Tetzel was an American actor.
She was born into a family of actors and started her career in the theatre. She appeared in several Broadway productions, including "The Very Naked Boy", "P.S. I Love You", and "Goodbye, My Fancy". In the 1940s, she moved into film, and appeared on-screen in films such as "Dial M for Murder" and "The File on Thelma Jordon". Tetzel also acted in numerous television shows in the 1950s and 60s including "The Twilight Zone", "The FBI", and "Perry Mason". She was married to writer and producer Jerrold Freedman and had two children. Later in life, Tetzel suffered from depression and committed suicide in her home in England.
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Reno Browne
Reno Browne (April 20, 1921 Reno-May 15, 1991 Reno) otherwise known as Reno Blair or Josephine Ruth Clarke was an American actor and pilot.
She is best known for her roles in Western films and television series, appearing alongside notable actors such as Roy Rogers and Gene Autry. Browne was also a licensed pilot and served in the Women Airforce Service Pilots during World War II. After her acting career, she became a successful businesswoman, running a successful real estate firm in Reno, Nevada.
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Diana Barrymore
Diana Barrymore (March 3, 1921 New York City-January 25, 1960 New York City) a.k.a. Diana Blanche Barrymore Blythe or Diana Blanche Barrymore was an American actor and pin-up girl.
She was the daughter of acclaimed actor John Barrymore and his second wife, poet Blanche Oelrichs. Diana followed in her father's footsteps and pursued a career in acting, appearing in a number of films in the 1940s and 1950s. She is best known for her roles in movies like "Nightmare" (1942) and "Between Two Worlds" (1944).
Despite her success on screen, Diana's personal life was tumultuous. She struggled with alcoholism and drug addiction, and was known for her turbulent relationships with men. She was married and divorced four times, including to fellow actor Bramwell Fletcher and tennis player John Howard.
Diana's life was cut short at the age of 38 due to heart failure brought on by her years of substance abuse. Her tragic story has been chronicled in numerous books and films, and she remains a fascinating and complex figure in Hollywood history.
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Ingeborg Brams
Ingeborg Brams (December 9, 1921 Hobro-October 14, 1989 Denmark) was a Danish actor.
She began her acting career in theater productions and later transitioned to film and television. Brams starred in several popular movies such as "Farlige dromme" and "Vi som gar koebmandsgaarden" in the 1950s and 60s. She also appeared in several Danish television series including "Matador" and "Huset på Christianshavn". Brams was known for her versatile acting skills and ability to portray complex characters with ease. She was honored with several awards for her contributions to Danish cinema and theater, including the prestigious Danish Bodil Award. Her legacy as one of Denmark's most talented actors lives on today.
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Norma MacMillan
Norma MacMillan (September 15, 1921 Vancouver-March 16, 2001 Vancouver) otherwise known as Norma Macmillan or Norma McMillan was a Canadian actor and voice actor. She had two children, Stefan Arngrim and Alison Arngrim.
MacMillan began her acting career in the 1950s, appearing in various TV shows and movies. However, she is best known for her work in voice acting, providing the voices for many beloved animated characters. She voiced Sweet Polly Purebred in the animated TV series "Underdog," Gumby's best friend, Prickle, in "The Gumby Show," and the original voice of Casper the Friendly Ghost in the 1960s animated series. MacMillan's other voice acting credits included "The Flintstones," "The Jetsons," and "The Smurfs," among others. She continued to work in voice acting until her death in 2001.
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Virginia Belmont
Virginia Belmont (September 20, 1921 Boston-May 6, 2014 Hollywood) also known as Virginia Belmonte was an American actor.
She began her career in the entertainment industry as a dancer and later transitioned to acting. Virginia appeared in many television shows and films throughout her career including "The Cisco Kid" (1950-1956), "The Big Heat" (1953), and "The Girl in Black Stockings" (1957). She was also a regular performer on variety shows such as "The Colgate Comedy Hour" and "The Ed Sullivan Show". In addition to her acting career, Virginia was a talented artist and worked as an illustrator for publications such as Look magazine. She passed away in 2014 at the age of 92.
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Gale Robbins
Gale Robbins (May 7, 1921 Chicago-February 18, 1980 Tarzana) also known as Betty Gale Robbins or Gail Robbins was an American actor, singer and model.
She began her career as a model before transitioning to acting and singing. Robbins appeared in several Hollywood films during the 1940s and 1950s, including "Bells Are Ringing" and "The Barkleys of Broadway." She also starred in numerous stage productions such as "Pal Joey" and "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes." Despite her success in entertainment, Robbins is perhaps best known for her work as a philanthropist. She was active in several charities and was a beloved figure in many communities. Robbins passed away at the age of 58.
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Carol Channing
Carol Channing (January 31, 1921 Seattle-) also known as Carol Elaine Channing is an American singer, actor and comedian. She has one child, Channing Carson.
Carol Channing is best known for her performances on Broadway, including her portrayal of Lorelei Lee in "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and Dolly Gallagher Levi in "Hello, Dolly!". She received four Tony Awards throughout her career, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Tony Award in 1995. In addition to her stage work, Channing appeared in several films and television shows, and released numerous albums. She was also known for her distinctive voice and signature blonde curls. Channing was an advocate for the arts and education, and helped establish the California Poets in the Schools program. She passed away on January 15, 2019 at the age of 97.
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Vivian Dandridge
Vivian Dandridge (April 22, 1921 Cleveland-October 26, 1991 Seattle) a.k.a. Vivian Alferetta Dandridge, The Dandridge Sisters, Vivi or Marina Rozell was an American singer and actor. She had one child, Michael Emmett Wallace.
Vivian Dandridge was a part of the Dandridge Sisters, a successful all-female trio that became popular in the 1930s and 1940s. They were known for their close harmonies and tap dancing. Vivian also had a successful solo career as a singer and actor. She appeared in several films and television shows, including "Carmen Jones" and "The Ford Television Theatre". She was also a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, using her platform to advocate for equal rights and racial justice. Aside from her music and activism, Vivian also had a passion for fashion and was known for her impeccable style.
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Nancy Reagan
Nancy Reagan (July 6, 1921 Flushing-) a.k.a. Nancy Davis Reagan, Anne Frances Robbins, Mrs. Nancy Reagan, Nancy Davis, Nancy Zarif, First lady Nancy Reagan, Anne Francis Robbins or Nancy is an American actor. She has two children, Ron Reagan and Patti Davis.
In addition to being an actor, Nancy Reagan also served as the First Lady of the United States from 1981 to 1989 during the presidency of her husband, Ronald Reagan. As First Lady, she promoted several initiatives, including the "Just Say No" anti-drug campaign and the Foster Grandparents program. She also worked to improve the White House's collection of art and furniture and to raise private funds to renovate the mansion. After her husband was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, she became an advocate for stem cell research to find a cure for the disease. Following her husband's death in 2004, she continued to work on Alzheimer's education and research, and founded the Ronald Reagan Institute for Research in Alzheimer's Disease.
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Deborah Kerr
Deborah Kerr (September 30, 1921 Glasgow-October 16, 2007 Botesdale) also known as Deborah Jane Kerr-Trimmer, Deborah Kerr-Viertel, Deborah Kerr-Trimmer, The English Rose, Deborah Jane Trimmer, Deborah Jane Kerr, CBE or Deborah Jane Kerr was a British actor and ballet dancer. Her children are called Melanie Jane Bartley and Francesca Shrapnel.
Throughout her career, Deborah Kerr appeared in over 50 films and television shows. She was known for her poise and elegance on-screen, as well as her ability to portray complex and nuanced characters. Some of her most famous roles include Karen Holmes in From Here to Eternity, Anna Leonowens in The King and I, and Sister Clodagh in Black Narcissus.
Kerr was nominated for six Academy Awards throughout her career, but unfortunately never won. She did, however, receive an honorary Oscar in 1994 for her contributions to the film industry.
In addition to her work in film, Kerr was also a trained ballet dancer and appeared in a number of stage productions throughout her career. She was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1998 for her services to drama.
Kerr retired from acting in the late 1980s and moved to a remote estate in Scotland with her second husband, screenwriter Peter Viertel. She remained active in charitable and philanthropic work until her death in 2007 at the age of 86.
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Joan Greenwood
Joan Greenwood (March 4, 1921 Chelsea-February 28, 1987 London) also known as Joan Mary W. Greenwood was a British actor. Her child is called Jason Morell.
Joan Greenwood was born into a theatrical family and began acting at a young age. She studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and made her stage debut in 1940. Greenwood became known for her distinctive husky voice and often played roles that were darkly comedic or seductive. She had a successful career in both films and television, appearing in popular movies such as "Kind Hearts and Coronets" and "The Importance of Being Earnest". She was also a regular on the radio program "The Goon Show". Later in her career, she returned to the stage and appeared in several West End productions. Greenwood passed away in London at the age of 65.
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Lana Turner
Lana Turner (February 8, 1921 Wallace-June 29, 1995 Century City) a.k.a. Julia Jean Mildred Frances Turner, Judy, Julia Jean Turner, Sweater Girl or Julia Turner was an American actor. Her child is called Cheryl Crane.
Lana Turner began her career as a model in the late 1930s before making her film debut in 1937 in "They Won't Forget." She quickly became known for her beauty and sensuality, earning the nickname "The Sweater Girl" due to her iconic fashion choices in films. Turner starred in several films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, including "The Postman Always Rings Twice" (1946) and "Peyton Place" (1957), earning critical acclaim for her performances. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in "Peyton Place." Turner's personal life was also the subject of much attention, particularly her seven marriages and various scandals. She continued to act in films and on television throughout the 1960s and 1970s before retiring from acting.
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Dagmar
Dagmar (November 29, 1921 Yawkey-October 9, 2001 Ceredo) also known as Virginia Ruth Egnor, Jennie Lewis or Virginia Lewis was an American tv personality, talk show host, actor and pin-up girl.
Dagmar grew up in West Virginia and started her career as a model, posing for magazines such as Yank and Peek. She gained national attention in the 1950s as a television personality and talk show host, known for her blonde bombshell image and silly, playful persona. Dagmar became a popular guest on variety shows and game shows, and she also appeared in films such as "The Second Greatest Sex" (1955) and "Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?" (1957).
While Dagmar was famous for her looks, she was also a talented performer and actress. She appeared on Broadway in the 1950s and later made guest appearances on television shows such as "The Twilight Zone" and "Burke's Law." Despite her success, Dagmar struggled with alcoholism in her later years and was largely retired from show business by the 1970s. She remained a beloved icon of the 1950s and is remembered today as one of the era's most recognizable and memorable figures.
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Nancy Kulp
Nancy Kulp (August 28, 1921 Harrisburg-February 3, 1991 Palm Desert) also known as Nancy Jane Kulp, Kulp, Nancy, Slim or Nancy Culp was an American politician, actor and voice actor.
She is best known for her role as Miss Jane Hathaway on the popular sitcom "The Beverly Hillbillies" which aired from 1962 to 1971. She also appeared in several other TV shows and films throughout her career, including "The Bob Cummings Show" and "Sanford and Son."
In addition to her acting career, Kulp also ran for political office. She ran for the U.S. House of Representatives twice in Pennsylvania but was unsuccessful each time. She later served as a delegate to the 1980 Democratic National Convention.
Kulp was also a trained linguist and worked for the United States Army during World War II as a translator and decoder. She passed away in 1991 at the age of 69 due to cancer.
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Esther Williams
Esther Williams (August 8, 1921 Inglewood-June 6, 2013 Los Angeles) also known as Esther Jane Williams, America's Mermaid, Ester Jane Williams or Williams, Esther was an American swimmer, actor and businessperson. She had three children, Benjamin Gage, Kimball Gage and Susan Gage.
After starting her career as a competitive swimmer, Esther Williams went on to become a successful Hollywood actress in the 1940s and 1950s. She starred in popular films such as "Bathing Beauty," "Million Dollar Mermaid," and "Jupiter's Darling." Williams was known for her synchronized swimming performances and her graceful swimming style, which made her a unique presence in Hollywood. In addition to her acting career, Williams also launched her own successful swimwear line and wrote several books, including her autobiography "The Million Dollar Mermaid." She passed away in 2013 at the age of 91.
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Alexis Smith
Alexis Smith (June 8, 1921 Penticton-June 9, 1993 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Gladys Smith was a Canadian actor.
She began her career on stage before transitioning to film in the 1940s. Some of her notable performances include "The Two Mrs. Carrolls" (1947), "Night and Day" (1946), and "The Young Philadelphians" (1959). In addition to her film work, she also appeared on television shows such as "Dallas" and "Falcon Crest." Smith was known for her elegant and sophisticated persona, which earned her comparisons to stars like Lauren Bacall and Bette Davis. She was married to actor Craig Stevens for over 40 years until her death in 1993.
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Liz Smith
Liz Smith (December 11, 1921 Scunthorpe-) otherwise known as Elizabeth Smith, Betty Gleadle or Liz Smith, MBE is a British actor.
She began her career as an actress in her 50s, and became a familiar face on British television and in films over the following decades. Smith appeared in numerous TV shows and movies, including "The Curse of the Were-Rabbit" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." She was awarded an MBE in 2009 for her services to drama. Despite suffering from ill health in her later years, Smith continued to work, and her last film credit was in 2016's "The More You Ignore Me." She passed away in December of that year at the age of 95.
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Fylgia Zadig
Fylgia Zadig (November 3, 1921 Malmö Municipality-November 27, 1994) was a Swedish actor. Her children are called Klas Eklund and Lena Eklund.
Fylgia Zadig began her acting career in the 1940s, and quickly became a well-known name in Swedish theatre and film. She is best remembered for her roles in movies such as "The Magician" and "The Virgin Spring", both directed by the legendary Swedish director Ingmar Bergman. Apart from her work in film and theatre, Fylgia Zadig was also a successful television actress, appearing in several popular TV series in Sweden. She was awarded the Swedish Royal medal Litteris et Artibus in 1981 for her contributions to the Swedish arts scene. Fylgia Zadig passed away in 1994 at the age of 73, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.
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Molly Dodd
Molly Dodd (November 11, 1921 Los Angeles-March 26, 1981 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Mary E. Dodd, Mary Elise Dodd or Bea Chilson was an American actor.
Although she appeared in over 30 films and television series throughout her career, Molly Dodd is best known for her role as Auntie Em in the classic film "The Wizard of Oz" (1939). She began her acting career in the 1930s, playing small roles in films such as "Curly Top" (1935) and "Heidi" (1937). She also had a recurring role in the television series "Peyton Place" in the 1960s. In addition to her acting work, Dodd was an avid horseback rider and was involved in various equine-related organizations. She passed away in 1981 at the age of 59 due to cancer.
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Alida Valli
Alida Valli (May 31, 1921 Pula-April 22, 2006 Rome) a.k.a. Alida Maria Laura von Altenburger, Valli, Alida Altenburger, Baroness von Marckenstein und Frauenberg, Alida Maria Laura Altenburger, Alida Maria von Altenburger baroness von Markenstein und Frauenberg of the Holy Roman Germanic Empire, Alida Maria Laura Altenburger von Marckenstein u. Frauenberg, Baroness Alida Maria Laura Altenburger von Marckenstein-Frauenberg or Baroness Alida Maria Laura Altenburger von Marckenstein u. Frauenberg was an Italian actor and singer. Her children are called Carlo De Mejo and Lorenzo De Mejo.
Alida Valli was born in Pula, a city located in the Istrian peninsula of Croatia, which was then a part of Italy. She began her career in the entertainment industry as a model and later transitioned to acting. Valli acted in numerous Italian films in the 1940s and 1950s, working with directors such as Luchino Visconti, Federico Fellini, and Michelangelo Antonioni.
She gained international recognition for her performance in the 1949 film "The Third Man," directed by Carol Reed, where she played the role of Anna Schmidt alongside Orson Welles and Joseph Cotten. Valli continued to act in films throughout the 1960s and 1970s, including notable roles in "Eyes Without a Face" (1960) and "Suspiria" (1977).
Aside from her acting career, Valli had a brief stint as a singer in the 1950s and recorded several songs. She was also known for her beauty and was a celebrated fashion icon. Valli died in Rome at the age of 84.
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Vivian Blaine
Vivian Blaine (November 21, 1921 Newark-December 9, 1995 New York City) also known as Vivian Stapleton or Blaine, Vivian was an American actor and singer.
She was best known for her role as Adelaide in the original Broadway production of Guys and Dolls, a role she reprised in the film adaptation. Blaine also appeared in several other films, including Jitterbugs and Something for the Boys, as well as television shows such as The Twilight Zone and The Lucy Show. In addition to her acting career, she also had a successful singing career and recorded several albums throughout her lifetime. Outside of her professional life, Blaine was known for her philanthropic efforts and was involved in various charities and organizations, including the American Cancer Society, the March of Dimes, and UNICEF.
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Matimtiman Cruz
Matimtiman Cruz (August 21, 1921 Batangas-April 14, 1992 Quezon City) also known as Maria Josefa Cruz or Aling Epang was a Filipino actor, comedian and radio personality. She had four children, Veronidia Manego, Angelito Manego, Perfecto Manego and Wilfredo Manego.
Matimtiman Cruz started her career in the entertainment industry as a stage actress in the 1930s. She soon transitioned to radio, becoming a popular host and comedian on shows such as "Tawag ng Tanghalan" and "Kasiyahan sa Studio". Cruz also appeared in several films, including "Dalagang Bukid" (1940) and "Pinakamagandang Lalaki" (1955).
Cruz was known for her quick wit and comedic timing. She often played the role of the wise-cracking best friend or sidekick in films and on radio. Cruz was also known for her distinctive voice, which made her a sought-after voice-over artist.
In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, Cruz was also involved in politics. She was a member of the National Power Corporation Labor Union and ran for a seat in the Batangas Provincial Board in 1984.
Despite her success in the entertainment industry and her involvement in politics, Matimtiman Cruz remained humble and dedicated to her craft. She continued to perform until her death in 1992 at the age of 70.
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Betty Hutton
Betty Hutton (February 26, 1921 Battle Creek-March 11, 2007 Palm Springs) also known as Elizabeth June Thornburg, Hutton, Betty, Bettty Hutton, Betty Darling or Betty Jane Boyer was an American singer and actor. Her children are called Candice Briskin, Lindsay Briskin and Caroline Candoli.
Betty Hutton was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, and was the youngest of three daughters. She began performing at a young age, singing and dancing in her local church choir. After moving to New York City in the early 1940s, she began performing in nightclubs and landed her first Broadway role in the musical "Two for the Show" in 1940.
Hutton gained fame as a Hollywood star during the 1940s and 1950s, starring in films such as "Annie Get Your Gun" and "The Greatest Show on Earth." She was known for her vibrant and energetic performances and her signature blonde hair.
In addition to her successful acting career, Hutton was also a talented singer and recorded several popular songs, including "It Had to Be You" and "Doctor, Lawyer, Indian Chief." She was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film "The Miracle of Morgan's Creek."
Hutton had a tumultuous personal life, including struggles with addiction and multiple marriages. She retired from acting in the 1960s and spent her later years focusing on her family and charitable work. She passed away in 2007 at the age of 86.
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Linda Stirling
Linda Stirling (October 11, 1921 Long Beach-July 20, 1997 Los Angeles) a.k.a. Louise Schultz was an American model and actor. She had two children, Christopher Nibley and Timothy Nibley.
Stirling was best known for her roles in a series of Republic Pictures serials in the 1940s, including "The Tiger Woman" and "Zorro's Black Whip." She was also a frequent supporting actress in westerns and musicals. In addition to her work in film and television, Stirling was a successful model and appeared on several magazine covers in the 1940s. She retired from acting in the 1950s but continued to work as a model and also pursued a career in real estate. Stirling was inducted into the Hall of Great Western Performers at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City in 2007.
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Elizabeth Kelly
Elizabeth Kelly (May 29, 1921 Newcastle upon Tyne-) is a British actor.
She is best known for her work in stage productions in London's West End, as well as for her appearances in films and television shows. Kelly began her career as a stage actress in the 1940s and eventually became a leading lady in the London theatre scene. Some of her notable stage credits include roles in productions of "The Importance of Being Earnest" and "Hay Fever". In addition to her success on the stage, Kelly also appeared in several films, including "The Mirror Crack'd" and "The First Great Train Robbery". She also made numerous television appearances throughout her career, including roles in popular shows such as "The Saint" and "The Avengers". Despite retiring from acting in the 1980s, Elizabeth Kelly remains a respected figure in British theatre and cinema.
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Elizabeth Wilson
Elizabeth Wilson (April 4, 1921 Grand Rapids-) a.k.a. Elizabeth Welter Wilson or Elizabeth W. Wilson is an American actor.
She began her career in theater, performing both on and off Broadway, and won a Tony Award in 1972 for her performance in the play "Sticks and Bones." She also appeared in numerous films and television shows, including "The Graduate," "9 to 5," and "The Addams Family." Wilson was known for her exceptional range as an actress, playing roles that ranged from comedic to dramatic. She passed away in 2015 at the age of 94, but her legacy in theater and film continues to inspire and influence aspiring actors today.
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Barbro Hjort af Ornäs
Barbro Hjort af Ornäs (August 28, 1921 Gothenburg-) a.k.a. Barbara Hart or Barbro Hjort af Ornäs is a Swedish actor.
She began her acting career in the 1940s and appeared in over 40 films and TV shows throughout her career. Some of her notable roles include Gunhild in Ingmar Bergman's "Fanny and Alexander" and Mamma in "The Emigrants" and "The New Land". In addition to her work in film and television, Hjort af Ornäs was also a respected stage actor and appeared in many productions at the Royal Dramatic Theatre in Sweden. She was awarded the Litteris et Artibus medal in 1996 for her contributions to the arts in Sweden. Hjort af Ornäs passed away on February 11, 2015, at the age of 93.
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Jeff Donnell
Jeff Donnell (July 10, 1921 Windham-April 11, 1988 Los Angeles) also known as Jean Marie Donnell, Miss Jeff Donnell, Jeff or Jean Donnell was an American actor. She had two children, Sarah Jane and Michael Pineas.
Donnell began her career in the early 1940s, appearing in small roles in a number of films. She was most often cast as the leading lady's wisecracking friend in films such as "My Favorite Blonde" and "The Incredible Mr. Limpet". She also appeared in television shows such as "General Electric Theater" and "The Twilight Zone". In addition to her acting career, Donnell was also an active member of the Screen Actors Guild, serving as its vice president for several years. She passed away in 1988 at the age of 66 due to heart failure.
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Corinne Luchaire
Corinne Luchaire (February 11, 1921 Paris-January 22, 1950 Paris) was a French actor.
She began her acting career in the late 1930s, making her debut in the film "Les Disparus de Saint-Agil" (1938). Luchaire quickly gained popularity for her striking beauty and on-screen charisma, and went on to star in a number of successful films over the next decade. Some of her notable works include "Picpus" (1943), "Madame et le Mort" (1943), and "La Vie de Bohème" (1945).
Despite her success in acting, Luchaire's personal life was plagued with scandal. She became notorious for her affair with German director and propagandist Willy Rozier during the Nazi occupation of France. After the war, she was accused of collaboration and briefly imprisoned. She attempted to revive her career, but was ultimately unable to shake off the stigma of her past.
Luchaire's life was tragically cut short when she was killed in a car accident in 1950 at the age of 28. Despite her controversial legacy, she remains a significant figure in French cinema history.
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Doris Houck
Doris Houck (September 28, 1921 Wallace-December 14, 1965 Santa Monica) a.k.a. Doris Colleen or Doris Colleen Houck was an American actor.
She is best known for her appearances in classic Hollywood movies such as "The Three Musketeers" (1948), "The Pirate" (1948), and "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" (1947). Born in Wallace, Idaho, Doris began her acting career in the late 1940s and quickly became a popular face on the big screen. Throughout her career, she appeared in over 25 films and starred alongside actors such as Gene Kelly, Margaret O'Brien, and Danny Kaye. Doris was known for her charming personality and natural acting abilities, which helped to make her a beloved figure in Hollywood. Despite her success, she passed away at a young age of 44, leaving behind a legacy that has endured to this day.
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Donna Reed
Donna Reed (January 27, 1921 Denison-January 14, 1986 Beverly Hills) also known as Donnabelle Mullenger or Donna Belle Mullenger was an American actor. She had four children, Anthony Owen, Timothy Owen, Mary Anne Owen and Penny Jane Owen.
Reed began her career as a contract player for MGM studios in the 1940s. She was renowned for her wholesome and girl-next-door image, which she portrayed in films such as "The Picture of Dorian Gray" (1945) and "It's a Wonderful Life" (1946). In 1953, she starred as Lorene Burke in "From Here to Eternity" which won the Best Picture Oscar.
Reed also found success on television, starring in her own sitcom, "The Donna Reed Show" which aired from 1958 to 1966. She received a Golden Globe for her role on the show, which chronicled the life of a suburban stay-at-home mother.
Apart from her acting career, Reed was also active in politics, campaigning for various causes including nuclear disarmament and the Equal Rights Amendment. She was also involved in charities, advocating for mental illness and promoting the importance of education.
After her death in 1986 from pancreatic cancer, her philanthropic efforts were recognized with a posthumous humanitarian award from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.
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Britta Holmberg
Britta Holmberg (December 21, 1921 Fors-June 3, 2004 Falsterbo) also known as Britta Alice Holmberg, Britta Olin-Holmberg, Brita Olin, Britta Olin, Britta Holmberg-Olin or Britta Alice Olin was a Swedish actor and singer. Her children are called Lena Olin and Mats Olin.
Born in Fors, Sweden in 1921, Britta Holmberg began her career as an actor in the late 1940s in her home country. She appeared on screen in several films, including "The Saucepan Journey" (1948) and "The Girl from the Third Row" (1949), before making her way to the U.S. to continue her acting career.
In the 1950s, Holmberg appeared in several American films, including "Kings Go Forth" (1958) and "The Horse Soldiers" (1959), but also continued to work in Sweden, appearing in films such as "Pippi Longstocking" (1969) and "The Adventures of Picasso" (1978).
In addition to her acting work, Holmberg was also an accomplished singer, performing in several musicals and releasing several albums throughout her career.
Holmberg was married to actor Stig Olin, with whom she had two children, Lena and Mats Olin, both of whom went on to become successful actors in their own right.
Britta Holmberg passed away in 2004 at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy as one of Sweden's most beloved actors and performers.
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Tasso Kavadia
Tasso Kavadia (January 10, 1921 Patras-December 18, 2010 Athens) a.k.a. Anastasia Kavadia or Tasso Kavvadia was a Greek actor. She had three children, Vasilis Salapatas, Giorgos Salapatas and Evgenia Salapata.
Tasso Kavadia began her career in theater and made her film debut in 1950 in the movie "To koritsi me ta mavra". She went on to appear in more than 80 movies, including the musical "Madalena" in 1960 where she played the title character. Kavvadia was also known for her performances in TV series, including the hit series "Sto Para Pente" where she played the role of Yiayia Vangie.
Aside from her acting career, Kavadia was also a longtime member of the Communist Party of Greece and was incarcerated during Greece's military dictatorship in the 1970s. She was a vocal advocate for workers' rights and social justice throughout her life.
In 2002, Kavadia was awarded the distinction of Commander of the Order of the Phoenix, one of Greece's highest honors for civilian achievements. She passed away in Athens in 2010 at the age of 89.
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Patsy Garrett
Patsy Garrett (May 4, 1921 Atlantic City-) also known as The Chow-Chow-Chow Lady, Virginia Garrett or Virginia "Patsy" Garrett is an American actor, singer and radio personality. Her children are called Kathy Kokinacis and Jeff Kokinacis.
Patsy Garrett began her career as a radio personality in the 1940s before transitioning to television and film. She is best known for her role as nosy neighbor, Betty Ramsey, in the television series, "Nanny and the Professor" and as the voice of several animated characters including Cottontail in "Benji's Very Own Christmas Story". She also appeared in popular TV shows such as "The Donna Reed Show", "The Andy Griffith Show", and "The Love Boat". Garrett continued to work in the entertainment industry well into her 80s, with her last on-screen appearance in the 2006 film, "Broken Bridges". In addition to her acting work, Garrett was also a talented singer who recorded several albums throughout her career.
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Jean Heywood
Jean Heywood (July 15, 1921 Blyth-) a.k.a. Jean Murray is a British actor.
She is best known for her role as the matriarch Rose in the film "The Boy With the Striped Pyjamas" (2008), which earned her critical acclaim. Heywood started her acting career in 1950 and has since appeared in several films, television shows and stage productions. Some of her notable film credits include "Billy Elliot" (2000), "Nicholas Nickleby" (2002) and "Vera Drake" (2004). One of her most significant roles was in the TV series "When the Boat Comes In" (1976-81). Heywood was also a founder member of the Royal Shakespeare Company and has performed at the National Theatre in London.
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Muriel Landers
Muriel Landers (October 27, 1921 Chicago-February 19, 1977 Woodland Hills) also known as The Landrews Sisters or Muriel R. Landers was an American actor, singer and dancer.
She began her career in the 1940s as a singer and dancer on Broadway, appearing in several shows including "On the Town" and "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes". In the 1950s, she transitioned to television and film, making appearances on popular shows such as "The Jack Benny Program" and "The Three Stooges". Her film credits include "The Affairs of Dobie Gillis" and "Son of Flubber".
Landers was best known for her comedic roles and her unique voice, often used in voiceover work in animated films and television shows. She was also an accomplished stage actor, earning critical acclaim for her performances in productions such as "By the Beautiful Sea" and "Babes in Toyland".
Landers continued to work in the entertainment industry until her death in 1977 at the age of 55, leaving behind a rich legacy of performances in film, television, and theater.
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France Roche
France Roche (April 2, 1921 Saint-Tropez-December 14, 2013 Paris) was a French screenwriter and actor. She had one child, Frédéric de Goldschmidt.
Roche began her career in the French film industry as a script girl and later worked as a screenwriter for films such as "Les petits matins" and "La traversée de Paris". In addition to her work in film, she was also a successful television writer and wrote for popular shows such as "Les Cinq Dernières Minutes" and "Les Enquêtes du commissaire Maigret".
Roche also had a notable acting career, appearing in a number of films throughout the 1950s and 60s. Some of her notable acting credits include "Le Désir et l'Amour" and "Marie-Octobre".
In 1984, Roche was awarded the Grand Prix de Littérature Policière for her novel "Les Flammes de l'été". She continued to write and publish throughout her life, with her final book, "L'homme de la mer", being released in 2012.
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Martha Greenhouse
Martha Greenhouse (June 14, 1921 Omaha-January 5, 2013 Manhattan) otherwise known as Martha Miriam Greenhouse was an American actor.
She appeared in many television shows, movies, and plays throughout her career, earning critical acclaim for her performances. Greenhouse received a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Play for her role in the play "The Tenth Man" in 1959. She also appeared in movies such as "The Producers" (1967) and "Three Days of the Condor" (1975). In addition to her acting work, Greenhouse was an advocate for the arts and served on the board of directors for the Theatre Development Fund. She passed away at the age of 91 in 2013 in Manhattan.
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Kathleen Byron
Kathleen Byron (January 11, 1921 West Ham-January 18, 2009 Northwood, London) also known as Kathleen Elizabeth Fell or Kathleen Jacob was an English actor.
She was best known for her role as the disturbed nun Sister Ruth in the 1947 film "Black Narcissus," for which she received critical acclaim. Over the course of her career, Byron appeared in over 50 films and television shows, including "Saving Private Ryan" and "The Elephant Man." She also had a successful stage career, performing in numerous productions in London's West End. Byron trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and began her career on stage before transitioning to film. She was married twice and had four children. In addition to her work as an actor, Byron was also an accomplished writer, publishing several books later in life.
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Marianne Wischmann
Marianne Wischmann (October 20, 1921 Düsseldorf-November 6, 2009 Starnberg) also known as Marianne Ruth Wischmann was a German actor.
She began acting during World War II with the Staatstheater in Darmstadt. In the 1950s, she became a popular voice actor, lending her voice to numerous films and TV shows. She was perhaps best known for providing the German voice of Cruella de Vil in the original 1961 Disney animated film "One Hundred and One Dalmatians." Wischmann continued acting well into her 70s and was awarded the Bavarian Order of Merit in 2004 for her contributions to German culture.
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Patricia Marmont
Patricia Marmont (August 9, 1921 Long Island-) otherwise known as Pat Marmont is an American actor and talent agent.
She began her acting career in the 1940s, appearing in films and on television shows such as "The Andy Griffith Show" and "Perry Mason". In 1958, she transitioned from acting to becoming a talent agent and founded the Pat Marmont Agency in Beverly Hills, California. Marmont represented notable clients such as Shirley MacLaine, Martin Sheen, and Sally Struthers. She was also known for her philanthropic work and served on the board of directors for numerous organizations including the Motion Picture and Television Fund and the Hollywood Museum. In 2007, she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to the entertainment industry.
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Dorothy Shay
Dorothy Shay (April 21, 1921 Jacksonville-October 22, 1978 Santa Monica) also known as Shay, Dorothy or Dorothy Sims was an American singer and actor.
Dorothy Shay gained popularity during the 1940s and 1950s for her comedic and sometimes risque songs. She often used a Southern accent and poked fun at stereotypes. She was affectionately nicknamed the "Park Avenue Hillbilly". Shay recorded numerous hits including "Feudin' and Fightin'", "Mountain Gal", and "Bedroom Blues". She also made appearances on television programs such as "The Ed Sullivan Show" and "The Milton Berle Show". After retiring from the entertainment industry, Shay moved to Santa Monica, California where she lived until her death.
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