Joyce Jameson was an American actress best known for her roles in films such as Tales of Terror, The Apartment, and The Comedy of Terrors. She gained fame in the 1950s and 1960s for her comedic performances and was often typecast as a dumb blonde.
Personal and Family Life
Joyce Jameson was born on September 26, 1927, in Chicago, Illinois, as Joyce Beverly Kingsley. She was married to Billy Barnes from 1952 to 1957 and had one son, Tyler Jameson Barnes, born on June 21, 1953. Jameson was known to suffer from depression and insomnia, and she had a close friendship with actor Robert Vaughn.
Career
Jameson’s acting career began in 1951 after being discovered in a cabaret club. She became popular for her work in musical revues and later transitioned to film and television. Although she showcased her talent in comedic roles, Jameson often struggled with typecasting, limiting her opportunities in more diverse roles.
Death and Legacy
Joyce Jameson tragically passed away on January 16, 1987, in Burbank, California, due to a suicide by overdose of sleeping pills. Despite her struggles, she left behind a legacy of memorable performances, particularly in the comedy and horror genres, which remain appreciated by fans and critics alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Good Neighbor Sam | 1964-07-22 | Hotel Prostitute |
| Run, Simon, Run | 1970-12-01 | Esther |
| Death Race 2000 | 1975-04-30 | Grace Pander |
| Problem Girls | 1953-04-07 | Peggy Carstairs |
| Crime Against Joe | 1956-03-21 | Gloria Wayne |
| Tales of Terror | 1962-07-04 | Annabel (“The Black Cat”) |
| The Comedy of Terrors | 1964-01-22 | Amaryllis Trumbull |
| Frankie and Johnny | 1966-03-31 | Abigail |
| Scorchy | 1976-10-08 | Mary Davis |
| Tip on a Dead Jockey | 1957-09-06 | Sue Fan Finley |
| The First 36 Hours of Dr. Durant | 1975-05-13 | Mrs. Graham |
| The Outlaw Josey Wales | 1976-06-30 | Rose |
| The Apartment | 1960-06-21 | The Blonde |
| The Crash of Flight 401 | 1978-10-29 | Sophie Cross |
| Hardbodies | 1984-05-04 | Rounder’s Mom |
| Pray TV | 1980-05-23 | Millie Peebles |
| Promise Him Anything | 1975-05-15 | Lucille |
| The Balcony | 1963-03-21 | Penitent |
| Every Which Way but Loose | 1978-12-16 | Sybil |
| Boy, Did I Get a Wrong Number! | 1966-06-08 | Switchboard Operator |
| Women in Chains | 1972-01-25 | Simpson |
| The Split | 1968-11-04 | Jenifer |
| Crosscurrent | 1971-11-19 | Lulu |