Belita

Belita was an English-American actress and figure skater who is best known for her roles in Silver Skates, Lady, Let’s Dance, and Suspense.

Personal and Family Life

Belita Gladys Olive Lyne Jepson-Turner was born on October 25, 1923, in Nether Wallop, Hampshire, England. Her mother, Queenie, pushed her into show business at a very young age. Belita was multilingual, fluent in four languages, and had various talents including singing, dancing, and playing musical instruments. She was married twice, first to actor Joel McGinnis from 1946 to 1956 and later to James Berwick from 1967 until his death in 2000.

Career

Belita began her career in Hollywood at the age of 18, signing a contract with Monogram Pictures. She gained fame as an ice dancer in several films during the early 1940s, notably in Ice-Capades and Silver Skates. She transitioned to acting in dramatic roles throughout the late 1940s and 1950s, showcasing her versatility beyond ice skating. Despite her successful film career, she performed in various theater productions and international ice shows, which highlighted her remarkable skating abilities.

Death and Legacy

Belita passed away on December 18, 2005, in Montpeyroux, France, at the age of 82. She is remembered for her talent on ice and her contributions to the entertainment industry during her career. Despite stepping away from the limelight, her legacy as “Belita, the Ice Maiden” continues to resonate with fans of classic cinema and skating.

Filmography