Joy Hodges was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “Follow the Fleet,” “Nellie Bly,” and Broadway productions like “I’d Rather Be Right.”
Personal and Family Life
Joy Hodges, born Frances Eloise Hodges on January 29, 1915, in Des Moines, Iowa, came from a musical family. She began her career as a child performer, first as part of the Bluebird Twins and later in a group known as the Crooning Co-eds during her high school years. Over her lifetime, she was married three times, first to Gilbert Hitchcock Doorly, then to Paul Dudley, and finally to Eugene Stuart Schiess until his death in 1990.
Career
Joy started her professional career after winning a talent contest in a theater and signed a five-year contract with RKO in 1935. She performed in various Broadway musicals and films, including a notable appearance with Fred Astaire in “Follow the Fleet.” Throughout her career, she maintained ties with well-known personalities, including Ronald Reagan, whom she helped in starting his acting career.
Death and Legacy
Joy Hodges passed away on January 19, 2003, in Palm Desert, California, due to a stroke. She is remembered not only for her achievements as a singer and actress but also for her influence in the entertainment industry, particularly in assisting Ronald Reagan’s career. Her legacy lives on through her performances and her impact on the careers of others.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Follow the Fleet | 1936-02-20 | Singer in Trio (uncredited) |
| Special Agent K-7 | 1936-05-04 | Peppy |
| Merry Go Round of 1938 | 1937-11-14 | Sally Brown |
| Service de Luxe | 1938-10-12 | Audrey |
| Personal Secretary | 1938-09-09 | Gale Rodgers |
| The Family Next Door | 1939-03-30 | Laura Pierce |
| To Beat the Band | 1935-11-23 | Ruth Harper – Girls’ Band Leader |
| Old Man Rhythm | 1935-08-02 | Lois |
| Laughing at Danger | 1940-08-12 | Mary Baker |
| Unexpected Father | 1939-06-14 | Peg – showgirl |
| They Asked For It | 1939-05-20 | Mary Lou Carroll |
| Margie | 1940-09-01 | Ruth |
| A Night at the Biltmore Bowl | 1935-06-21 | Vocalist |
| Little Accident | 1939-10-26 | Joan Huston |