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Priscilla LaneAmerican actress and singer
Date of Birth: 12.06.1915
Country:  USA |
Content:
Biography of Priscilla Lane
Early Life and CareerPriscilla Lane was born on June 12, 1915, in Indianola, Iowa. She was the youngest of five daughters of Dr. Lorenzo Mullican, a dentist, and his wife Cora Bell Hicks, who was a reporter before getting married. Priscilla's sisters, Leota, Lola, Dorothy (later known as Rosemary), and Martha, all had successful careers in Hollywood and the theater industry.
Rise to Stardom
In 1931, Priscilla moved to New York City, where her older sister Leota was already making a name for herself as a theater actress. Priscilla enrolled in a theater school and was soon joined by her sister Rosemary. Together, they auditioned for Broadway shows and caught the attention of Fred Waring, who offered them a contract to perform in his musical group, Fred Waring's Glee Club. Priscilla also showcased her comedic talent in radio performances with Waring.
Hollywood Success
In 1937, Priscilla and Rosemary were cast in the Hollywood film "Varsity Show" after their successful performances with Waring's group. Warner Brothers studio noticed their talent and signed them to contracts, leading to Priscilla's appearance in 16 films. Some of her notable films include "Four Daughters," "Four Wives," "Four Mothers," and "Million Dollar Baby." Although she had significant roles in her films, the studio never promoted her as a leading actress, which was a great disappointment to Priscilla.
Personal Life and Later Years
Priscilla was married twice in her life. Her first marriage to assistant director and screenwriter Oren Haglund lasted only a day in January 1939 before being annulled. In May 1942, she married Lieutenant Joseph A. Howard of the US Air Force. They had four children together and traveled extensively due to Joseph's military assignments. After Joseph's retirement, the family settled in New England, where Priscilla focused on volunteering and gardening.
In the late 1950s, Priscilla hosted her own television show in Boston. However, as time went on, she distanced herself from public appearances, rejecting job offers, declining interviews, and not responding to fan letters. Joseph passed away in 1976, leaving Priscilla heartbroken. She found solace in her beloved garden and continued to help those in need.
In 1994, Priscilla was diagnosed with lung cancer and moved to a private nursing facility in Andover, Massachusetts, to be closer to her eldest son, Joe, and his family. She passed away on April 4, 1995, at the age of 79, after battling cancer and chronic heart failure. Priscilla was buried at Arlington National Cemetery next to her husband, who received a military funeral with full honors.
