Virginia Bruce was an American actress best known for her roles in films such as “The Great Ziegfeld,” “The Invisible Woman,” and “Night Has a Thousand Eyes.” She was born on September 29, 1910, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and gained fame during the 1930s and 1940s.
Personal and Family Life
Virginia Bruce, born Helen Virginia Briggs, had a colorful personal life with several marriages. She was first married to screen legend John Gilbert, but the marriage ended in divorce. She later married director J. Walter Ruben, and after his passing, she wed Turkish producer Ali Ipar twice. Bruce had one child from her marriage to Gilbert and maintained relationships with various notable figures in the film industry.
Career
Virginia began her film career in the 1920s, quickly rising from small roles to leading lady status in several films. Known for her blonde good looks, she became a prominent figure in Hollywood movies, often playing the “other” woman or leading roles in various genres. Throughout her career, she appeared in over 50 films and also worked in television during the later years of her life.
Death and Legacy
Virginia Bruce passed away on February 24, 1982, in Woodland Hills, Los Angeles, due to cancer. Her legacy includes a significant contribution to American cinema during the golden age of Hollywood. Bruce is remembered not only for her performances but also for her active involvement in charitable causes and politics.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Night Has a Thousand Eyes | 1948-08-20 | Jenny |
| The Murder Man | 1935-07-12 | Mary Shannon |
| The Invisible Woman | 1940-12-28 | Kitty Carroll |
| The Great Ziegfeld | 1936-04-08 | Audrey Dane |
| Born to Dance | 1936-11-27 | Lucy James |
| There Goes My Heart | 1938-10-14 | Joan Butterfield |
| Winner Take All | 1932-07-16 | Joan Gibson |
| Action in Arabia | 1944-02-18 | Yvonne |
| Love, Honor and Goodbye | 1945-09-15 | Roberta Baxter |