Binnie Barnes American actress Date of Birth: 25.05.1903 Country: USA

Binnie Barnes: Actress and Philanthropist

Binnie Barnes, born Gittel Enoyce Barnes on May 25, 1903, in Islington, was an English actress known for her roles in both British and American films. She was raised in a Jewish-Italian family and was brought up in Jewish traditions. After working on a farm and as an intern in a hospital, Barnes discovered her passion for ballroom dancing and became a partner to Tex McLeod. She transitioned from ballet to cabaret and stage performances.

Barnes made her film debut in 1923, starting in Britain and then moving on to Hollywood. She continued to act for 50 years until 1973. One of her most notable films was "The Private Life of Henry VIII," where she played Katherine Howard alongside Charles Laughton in the leading role. While she played both English and American films throughout her career, she achieved great success in Hollywood, often in supporting roles.

In addition to her acting career, Barnes was married to film producer and former football player Mike Frankovich, who converted her to Roman Catholicism. She also became a US citizen around the same time. The couple had three adopted children, two of whom pursued careers in the film industry. Mike Frankovich Jr. became a producing manager, and Peter Frankovich became a producer.

After World War II, Barnes and her husband moved to Italy, where she continued to act in various European projects. She retired from the film industry in 1954, but returned to the screen in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Her final film appearance was in the comedy "40 Carats" released in 1973.

Aside from her acting career, Barnes dedicated her time to philanthropy. She actively collaborated with numerous organizations and remained involved in charitable work until her death. Binnie Barnes passed away on June 27, 1998, in Beverly Hills, California, at the age of 95. She was laid to rest at the Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Glendale.