Grace McDonald American dancer and film actress, Date of Birth: 15.06.1918 Country: USA

1. Grace MacDonald: American Dancer and Actress
2. Early Life and Career
3. Film Career and Legacy
4. Personal Life and Later Years

Grace MacDonald: American Dancer and Actress

Grace MacDonald, an American dancer and film actress, played roles in 20 films over a span of three years. From 1942 to 1945, this beautiful and lively actress primarily appeared in "B-movies" for Universal Pictures. Although she had great potential and could have become much more famous, Grace left her acting career after getting married and never regretted her decision.

Early Life and Career

Grace MacDonald was born on June 15, 1918, in New York City. At a young age, she made her debut as a dancer in local vaudevilles, performing alongside her equally talented younger brother, Ray MacDonald. Ray, who was two years younger than Grace, formed a professional dance duo with his sister, following in the footsteps of Fred and Adele Astaire. They specialized in tap dancing.

At the age of 18, Grace and Ray made their Broadway debut in the popular musical "Babes in Arms," with Grace playing the role of Dolores Reynolds and Ray portraying Sam Reynolds. Their dance number to the song "I Wish I Were in Love Again" greatly contributed to the success of the show and served as a ticket to Hollywood for both MacDonalds. Grace signed a contract with Paramount Pictures, while Ray joined MGM.

Grace briefly appeared in a short comedy film called "Rah! Rah! Rhythm" in 1936, but she didn't actively pursue a film career until 1940. From 1939 to 1941, she continued performing on Broadway in productions such as "One For the Money," "Very Warm for May," and "The More the Merrier." Her first major film, "Dancing on a Dime," which was released in 1940, was not very successful, and she didn't appear on screen again until two years later when she joined Universal Pictures.

Film Career and Legacy

Although Grace's musicals were joyful and vivacious, they were still products of the assembly line, designed to uplift a war-weary nation. This is evident from their titles, such as "Give Out, Sisters" and "Behind the Eight Ball" in 1942, "How's About It" in 1943, and "Hat Check Honey" in 1944. Grace also frequently appeared in films featuring the Andrews Sisters, a popular vocal trio at the time.

Grace was not only talented in dance but also ready for dramatic acting. She showcased her abilities in the 1943 film "It Ain't Hay," starring the famous comedy duo Bud Abbott and Lou Costello. She also delivered outstanding performances in dramas such as "Murder in the Blue Room" and "Destiny." Interestingly, in "Destiny," the remarkable dancer remained stationary throughout her entire role. Her last work was the romantic comedy "Honeymoon Ahead" in 1945.

Personal Life and Later Years

Grace MacDonald married Ralph Green, a Marine Corps veteran of World War II, and completely stopped accepting film offers. The family moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, Ralph's hometown. Grace gave birth to three sons and devoted herself entirely to raising her children and managing the household.

Grace MacDonald passed away on October 30, 1999, at the age of 81, from bilateral pneumonia in Scottsdale, Arizona.