Kathleen Howard was a Canadian-born American actress, best known for her roles in It’s a Gift (1934), Ball of Fire (1941), and Death Takes a Holiday (1934). She was a talented mezzo-soprano and worked as a magazine editor, transitioning to film in the mid-1930s.
Personal and Family Life
Kathleen Howard was born on July 27, 1884, in Clifton, Ontario, Canada. She was married to lawyer Edward Kellogg Baird from 1916 until their divorce in 1925. Howard had a successful career in performing arts, including a notable stint with the Metropolitan Opera from 1916 to 1918, before moving into acting in film and journalism.
Career
During her career, Kathleen Howard played various character roles in American films from the 1930s to the 1940s. She is particularly remembered for her portrayal of the shrewish wife of W. C. Fields in It’s a Gift. Her transition from opera to film showcased her versatility as a performer and she continued to work in the industry until her retirement from stage performances in 1928.
Death and Legacy
Kathleen Howard passed away on August 15, 1956, in Hollywood, California, USA, though the exact cause of her death remains undisclosed. She is buried in Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo, New York. Her legacy lives on through her memorable performances, especially her iconic role alongside W. C. Fields, which continues to resonate with audiences today.