Frances Chaney was an American actress who is best known for her roles in When Harry Met Sally… (1989), Law & Order (1990), and Life with Mikey (1993).
Personal and Family Life
Frances Chaney was born Fanya Lipetz on July 23, 1915, in Odessa, which was then part of the Russian Empire (now Ukraine). She was married to Ring Lardner Jr., an Oscar-nominated writer, and had a son named James with him. She was also married to David Ellis Lardner, with whom she had two children. Frances was the daughter-in-law of the writer Ring Lardner, and she was once the mother-in-law of actor Tommy Lee Jones.
Death and Legacy
Frances Chaney passed away on November 23, 2004, in Manhattan, New York City, due to Alzheimer’s disease. Her contributions to television and film, especially her notable appearances on radio shows and classic films, have left a lasting legacy in the industry. Despite her illnesses in later life, her work continues to be remembered and appreciated by audiences today.
Filmography
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| When Harry Met Sally… | 1989 | Documentary Couple |
| Law & Order | 1990–1993 | Amelia Whitney |
| Life with Mikey | 1993 | Mrs. Cantrell |
| Tales from the Darkside | 1983 | Witch |
| The Seven-Ups | 1973 | Sara Kalish |
| The Edge of Night | 1958–1969 | Jeanne Culpepper |
| The Patty Duke Show | 1964–1965 | Miss Blake / Mrs. Parker |