Jean Simmons was an English-American actress who is best known for her roles in Spartacus, Hamlet, and Guys and Dolls.
Personal and Family Life
Jean Simmons was born on January 31, 1929, in Crouch End, London. She had two marriages: first to Stewart Granger from 1950 to 1960 and then to Richard Brooks from 1960 to 1977. She had two children, Tracy Granger and Kate Brooks. Her family also includes siblings Edna, Harold, and Lorna Simmons.
Career Overview
At a young age, Simmons began her acting career, gaining critical acclaim for performances in British films. Moving to Hollywood in the early 1950s, she starred in various films, experiencing both great success and setbacks. Notable appearances included roles in major pictures like The Robe and The Big Country. Throughout her career, she received numerous award nominations, including two Oscar nods.
Death and Legacy
Jean Simmons passed away on January 22, 2010, from lung cancer, just days before her 81st birthday. She is remembered for her captivating beauty and strong performances in film and television. Her legacy is marked by a range of characters, often embodying the roles of strong, rebellious women.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Spartacus | 1960-10-13 | Varinia |
| Angel Face | 1953-01-02 | Diane Tremayne Jessup |
| Guys and Dolls | 1955-12-23 | Sarah Brown |
| Elmer Gantry | 1960-07-07 | Sister Sharon Falconer |
| Hamlet | 1948-12-10 | Ophelia |
| How to Make an American Quilt | 1995-10-06 | Em |
| The Egyptian | 1954-08-25 | Merit |
| The Grass Is Greener | 1960-12-23 | Hattie Durant |
| The Big Country | 1958-09-30 | Julie Maragon |
| Great Expectations | 1946-12-26 | Young Estella |
| The Robe | 1953-09-16 | Diana |
| Désirée | 1954-11-16 | Desiree Clary |