Christine Norden

Christine Norden was an English actress who is best known for her roles in “Mine Own Executioner,” “An Ideal Husband,” and “Inspector Morse.” Born as Mary Lydia Thornton in Sunderland, Tyne-and-Wear, she became a notable figure in the film industry, particularly remembered for her performances in the post-war era.

Personal and Family Life

Christine Norden was born on December 28, 1924, to a bus driver and grew up in humble surroundings. She was married five times, with her last husband, George Heselden, being a retired mathematician who worked for the Ministry of Defense. Christine also had a son, Michael Cole, from her marriage to Norman Cole. Her sister, June Mitchell, was also an actress, contributing to the family’s show business legacy.

Career Highlights

Beginning her career as a singer and dancer, Christine was discovered by film mogul Sir Alexander Korda. She was the first entertainer to perform for Allied troops on the Normandy beaches after D-Day in 1944. Christine starred in several notable films during her career and made a significant impact on Broadway, debuting in the musical “Tenderloin” in 1960 and making headlines as the first actress to appear topless on Broadway in “Scuba Duba” in 1967.

Death and Legacy

Christine Norden passed away on September 21, 1988, in London due to pneumonia, which developed after heart bypass surgery. She left behind a legacy as a pioneer of the modern sex symbol, with a crater on Venus named in her honor. After her death, her memoirs were found but were considered too scandalous for publication at the time.

Filmography