Fay Wray

Fay Wray was a Canadian-American actress, best known for her role as Ann Darrow in the classic film King Kong (1933), as well as her performances in The Wedding March (1928) and The Most Dangerous Game (1932).

Personal and Family Life

Fay Wray was born on September 15, 1907, in Cardston, Alberta, Canada. She moved to Los Angeles at a young age, where she began working in films as an extra. Throughout her life, she had three marriages, the first to John Monk Saunders, a screenwriter, followed by Robert Riskin, and later to Dr. Sanford Rothenberg. She had three children: Susan, Victoria, and Robert Riskin Jr.

Career Overview

Wray started her acting career in silent films, primarily in westerns, and gained popularity in the late 1920s and early 1930s. She became iconic for her role in King Kong, where she showcased incredible talent in conveying fear and vulnerability. After the success of King Kong, she experienced a decline in her career, primarily appearing in low-budget films until her retirement in 1942. Wray later returned to acting, playing character roles in the 1950s and 1960s.

Death and Legacy

Fay Wray passed away on August 8, 2004, in Manhattan, New York City, due to natural causes. She is remembered as the “Queen of Scream” for her impressive portrayal of frightened women in horror films. Her legacy lives on through her classic film roles, especially as the leading lady in King Kong, which remains a significant part of film history.

Filmography