Anne FrancisAmerican actress and model
Date of Birth: 06.09.1930
Country: USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Career Beginnings
- Hollywood Breakthrough
- Science Fiction and Beyond
- Television Success
- Personal Life and Later Years
- Legacy and Honors
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Ann Lloyd Francis was born on September 16, 1930, in Ossining, New York, to Philip and Edith Francis. Her show business career began at the tender age of six. At eleven, she made her Broadway debut in "Lady in the Dark."
Hollywood Breakthrough
Francis's first film appearance was in a small role in the musical "This Time for Keeps" (1947). Her breakout role came five years later as Lydia Bailey in "Lydia Bailey" (1952). She went on to star opposite Spencer Tracy in "Bad Day at Black Rock" (1955).
Science Fiction and Beyond
In 1956, Francis solidified her fame as Altaira in the science fiction classic "Forbidden Planet." She also starred as Georgia James in the iconic musical "Funny Girl" (1968).
Television Success
Francis became a household name through her numerous television roles. Notable characters include Julia Reddie in "Alfred Hitchcock Presents," Doreen Maney in "The Untouchables," and Arliss Cooper in "Dallas."
Personal Life and Later Years
Francis was married twice. Her first marriage to Batement Lawrence Price Jr. lasted from 1952 to 1955. In 1960, she married Dr. Robert Abeloff, and they had a daughter named Jane. They divorced in 1964. Francis spent her later years in Santa Barbara, California, where she passed away from pancreatic cancer on January 2, 2011.
Legacy and Honors
Francis won a Golden Globe Award in 1966 for Best Television Actress for her role in "Honey West." The iconic gold lame dress she wore as Altaira in "Forbidden Planet" is valued at an estimated $20,000-$30,000 today.