Kay Francis was an American actress who is best known for Trouble in Paradise, I Found Stella Parish, and One Way Passage.
Personal and Family Life
Born Katherine Edwina Gibbs on January 13, 1905, in Oklahoma City, Kay Francis grew up in a family connected to the entertainment industry, as her mother was an actress. She had a brief stint in real estate and organizing lavish parties before pursuing a career in acting. Over her lifetime, she married three times: to James Dwight Francis, William Gaston, and Kenneth MacKenna, although all three marriages ended in divorce.
Career
Kay began her film career with a role in a 1925 version of ‘Hamlet’ before rising to fame in the 1930s at Warner Brothers, where she was known as the “Queen of Warner Brothers.” She appeared in numerous successful films and gained recognition for her glamorous style. However, her career faced challenges, leading to a lawsuit against Warner Brothers over her contract, which limited her opportunities.
Death and Legacy
Kay Francis passed away on August 26, 1968, in New York City due to cancer. She left behind a legacy as one of the popular actresses of Hollywood’s Golden Era and is remembered for her contributions to film with several iconic performances. After her death, she left a significant portion of her estate to an organization dedicated to training guide dogs for the blind.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Trouble in Paradise | 1932-06-17 | Mariette Colet |
| The Cocoanuts | 1929-05-23 | Penelope |
| I Found Stella Parish | 1935-11-16 | Stella Parish |
| One Way Passage | 1932-10-04 | Joan Ames |
| Confession | 1937-08-19 | Vera Kowalska |
| The White Angel | 1936-06-25 | Florence Nightingale |