Ina Claire was an American actress who is best known for her performances in Broadway comedies and films such as The Awful Truth, Ninotchka, and Claudia.
Personal and Family Life
Ina Claire, born Ina Fagan, came from an Irish background. She faced hardships early in life when her father passed away in an accident before she was born, leading her and her mother to live in a boarding house. Her talent for impersonations emerged at a young age, prompting her to leave school at 17 and pursue a career in vaudeville.
Theatrical Career
Claire gained fame performing in revues and musicals, enjoying a successful run with her role in the 1911 musical The Quaker Girl. Over the years, she starred in numerous plays and became particularly noted for her roles in comedic works by famous playwrights. Her charm and elegance made her a beloved figure on stage, culminating in her induction into the American Theatre Hall of Fame.
Death and Legacy
Ina Claire passed away at the age of 91 from a heart attack on February 21, 1985, in San Francisco, California. She was interred at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Salt Lake City, Utah. Her legacy lives on through her performances and her star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, awarded in 1960.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Greeks Had a Word for Them | 1932-02-03 | Jean Lawrence |
| The Royal Family of Broadway | 1930-12-22 | Julie Cavendish |
| Claudia | 1943-11-04 | Mrs. Brown |
| Ninotchka | 1939-11-23 | Grand Duchess Swana |
| Rebound | 1931-08-28 | Sara Jaffrey |
| From the Ends of the Earth | 1939-05-28 | Self |
| Stage Door Canteen | 1943-06-24 | Ina Claire |
| The Awful Truth | 1929-08-10 | Lucy Warriner |
| The Wild Goose Chase | 1915-05-27 | Betty Wright |