Kay Thompson was an American actress, best known for her roles in Funny Face, The Kid from Brooklyn, and Eloise. Born Catherine Louise Fink on November 9, 1909, in St. Louis, Missouri, she was a multi-talented personality in the entertainment industry.
Personal and Family Life
Kay Thompson was the second child of Leo George Thompson, a jeweler, and Hattie Thompson. She began playing the piano at the age of four, showcasing her prodigious talent early on. Although she married twice, first to Jack Jenney and later to William Spier, both marriages ended in divorce, and she did not have any children. Kay was particularly close to her goddaughter, Liza Minnelli, who honored her memory through various performances.
Career Highlights
Thompson started her career in music, performing with local bands and eventually working in radio. She became a vocal coach at MGM Studios, helping stars like Judy Garland and Frank Sinatra. Kay’s nightclub act was a sensation, filled with unique musical and comedic elements. She later transitioned to writing children’s books, creating the beloved “Eloise” series that became immensely popular.
Death and Legacy
Kay Thompson passed away on July 2, 1998, in New York City at the age of 88. Despite a decline in her public presence in her later years, her legacy lived on through her work in film, music, and literature. The “Eloise” character continues to be adored, demonstrating the lasting impact of her creativity and talent.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Funny Face | 1957-02-13 | Maggie Prescott |
| The Kid from Brooklyn | 1946-03-21 | Matron |
| Tell Me That You Love Me, Junie Moon | 1970-05-11 | Miss Gregory |
| Liza with a Z | 1972-09-10 | Audience |
| Kay Thompson: Think Pink! | 2009-01-13 | Self (archive footage) |
| Who Killed Julie Greer? | 1961-09-26 | Mrs. Pierce |
| Eloise | 1956-11-22 | Herself |
| Manhattan Merry-Go-Round | 1937-11-26 | Self |
| The Ed Sullivan Show | 1948-06-20 | Self |
| The Dinah Shore Chevy Show | 1956-10-05 | Self |
| Cinépanorama | 1956-02-04 | Self |
| Playhouse 90 | 1956-10-04 | Herself |
| Tonight Starring Jack Paar | 1957-07-29 | Self |
| The Mike Douglas Show | 1961-12-11 | Self |