Irène Bordoni was an American actress of Italian descent, famous for her performances in Broadway shows and films like Louisiana Purchase, Just a Gigolo, and Paris.
Personal and Family Life
Born on January 16, 1895, in Ajaccio, Corsica, Irène Bordoni was raised in a family of Italian parents. She began her career as a child actress in Italy before moving to the United States, where she found success on Broadway. During her career, she was married to E. Ray Goetz, who was not only her husband but also played a significant role in promoting her on stage.
Career Highlights
Irène was known for her captivating presence, often described as ‘volatile’ and positively glamorous. She made a splash in the movie industry with her debut in Paris in 1929, although her transition to film didn’t match her Broadway success. Despite challenges, she continued to return to the stage and portrayed memorable roles, including her appearance in the animated short Just a Gigolo.
Death and Legacy
Irène Bordoni passed away on March 19, 1953, in New York City due to cancer. Her legacy as a Broadway star and film actress highlights the struggles many performers face when transitioning between stage and screen. Even with mixed success in Hollywood, she remains remembered for her distinct style and contributions to theater and film.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Louisiana Purchase | 1941-12-31 | Madame Yvonne Bordelaise |
| Just a Gigolo | 1932-09-08 | Herself |
| Paris | 1929-11-07 | Vivienne Rolland |
| Show of Shows | 1929-11-21 | Performer in ‘Just for One Hour of Love’ Number |
| Du Barry Did All Right | 1937-08-07 | Irene Wainwright (as Irene Bordoni) |
| Betty Boop: Queen of the Cartoons | 1995-01-01 | Self (archive footage) |