Jean Adair was a Canadian-American actress who is best known for her role as Martha Brewster in “Arsenic and Old Lace,” and performances in “Something in the Wind,” and “Living in a Big Way.” She was born Violet McNaughton in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
Personal and Family Life
Jean Adair was born on June 13, 1873, and she spent a significant part of her early career performing in local stock companies and vaudeville. She studied acting in Chicago before hitting Broadway with the comedy “It’s a Boy!” in 1922. Adair’s distinctive presence often led her to portray quirky or maternal characters, both on stage and screen.
Career
Though her film appearances were relatively few, Jean Adair made a lasting impact with her stage work and memorable screen roles. One of her most notable achievements was creating the role of Martha Brewster in “Arsenic and Old Lace,” both in the original play and the film adaptation. She also appeared in the musical “Living in a Big Way,” dancing alongside Gene Kelly in a small role.
Death and Legacy
Jean Adair passed away on May 11, 1953, in New York City, New York. Her performances in theatre and film continue to be appreciated, especially the iconic character she played in “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Her unique flair for comedy and heartfelt portrayals solidified her legacy in the world of entertainment.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Arsenic and Old Lace | 1944-09-01 | Aunt Martha Brewster |
| Something in the Wind | 1947-07-21 | Aunt Mary Collins |
| Living in a Big Way | 1947-06-10 | Abigail Morgan |
| The Naked City | 1948-03-04 | Little Old Lady (Uncredited) |