Barbara Payton was an American actress known for her roles in “Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye,” “Only the Valiant,” and “Bride of the Gorilla.” She rose to fame in the 1950s but later faced personal struggles that affected her career and life.
Personal and Family Life
Barbara Payton was born Barbara Lee Redfield on November 16, 1927, in Cloquet, Minnesota. She had a turbulent personal life, marked by four marriages and a custody battle over her son. Her first marriage was to John Lee Payton in 1945, and she later married actors Franchot Tone and George Anthony Provas. Payton’s relationships often drew public attention, particularly her affairs with high-profile actors, which sometimes ended in violence.
Career Highlights
After moving to Hollywood in 1948, Barbara signed a contract with Universal Studios and began her career with small roles. She gained attention for her performances alongside notable actors like James Cagney and Gregory Peck. Despite her initial success, her career declined due to her tumultuous personal life, leading her to star in lesser-known films. Ultimately, her struggles with alcoholism and failed attempts to revive her career took a toll on her life.
Death and Legacy
Barbara Payton passed away on May 8, 1967, in San Diego, California, at the age of 39 due to heart and liver failure. Despite her tragic end, she published an autobiography titled “I Am Not Ashamed,” which detailed her rise and fall in Hollywood along with her personal struggles. Her life story serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of fame and personal choices in the entertainment industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Bride of the Gorilla | 1951-10-01 | Dina Van Gleder |
| The Flanagan Boy | 1953-04-10 | Lorna Vecchi |
| Trapped | 1949-09-27 | Meg Dixon |
| Murder Is My Beat | 1955-02-27 | Eden Lane |
| Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye | 1950-08-19 | Holiday Carleton |
| Four Sided Triangle | 1953-06-15 | Lena / Helen |
| Run for the Hills | 1953-06-01 | Jane Johnson |
| Drums in the Deep South | 1951-09-01 | Kathy Summers |
| Dallas | 1950-12-30 | Flo |
| The Great Jesse James Raid | 1953-07-17 | Kate |
| Only the Valiant | 1951-04-13 | Cathy Eversham |
| Once More, My Darling | 1949-09-10 | Girl Photographer |
| The Pecos Pistol | 1949-10-27 | Kate McCormick |
| Silver Butte | 1949-01-01 | Rita Landon |