Mary Jane Gumm was an American actress who is best known for her performances as part of The Gumm Sisters and later as Suzanne. She was also known for being the older sister of the famed actress Judy Garland.
Personal and Family Life
Mary Jane Gumm was born on September 24, 1915, in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, to parents Frank and Ethel Gumm, who owned a local theater. She had two younger sisters, Virginia and Frances. The family faced challenges, including Frank’s troubled marriage and relocation to California due to accusations against him. The three sisters formed a singing group, The Gumm Sisters, gaining popularity on vaudeville stages across the country.
Career Highlights
Initially, Mary Jane performed with The Gumm Sisters, later changing their name to The Garland Sisters. After marrying orchestra leader Lee Kahn in 1935, she performed occasionally with his band. However, she struggled with her singing career and appeared in minor roles in films like “Broadway Melody of 1940” and “Babes On Broadway.” In 1941, she married musician Jack Cathcart, but her life became troubled with alcoholism and ended in divorce.
Death and Legacy
Mary Jane Gumm passed away on May 27, 1964, at the age of 48. Although rumors suggested she committed suicide due to her struggles, her death was officially attributed to asphyxiation caused by a seizure. Tragically, her sister Judy Garland could not attend her funeral due to illness. Mary Jane was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Bubbles | 1930-01-31 | Herself (uncredited) |
| The Big Revue | 1929-08-14 | Herself |
| Sid & Judy | 2019-06-26 | Self (archive footage) |
| A Holiday in Storyland | 1930-04-02 | One of The Three Gumm Sisters |
| The Wedding of Jack and Jill | 1930-04-30 | One of The Three Gumm Sisters |
| La Fiesta de Santa Barbara | 1935-12-07 | Self (as The Garland Sisters) |