Joan Blondell
Actor
About Joan Blondell
Joan Blondell was born Rose Joan Blondell on August 30, 1906, in New York City to a vaudeville family. She began her career on Broadway as a teenager before being discovered by Hollywood talent scouts. Blondell signed with Warner Bros. in 1930 and quickly became one of their most prolific and popular contract players, appearing in over 50 films during the 1930s. She was known for her wisecracking, street-smart characters and her natural comedic timing. Despite never winning an Academy Award, she received a Best Supporting Actress nomination for her role in 'The Blue Veil' (1951). Her career spanned five decades, with over 100 film and television appearances, making her one of Hollywood's most recognizable character actresses. She continued working well into the 1970s, appearing in films like 'Grease' (1978) before her death in 1979.
The Craft
On Screen
Blondell was known for her naturalistic, fast-talking comedic style, often playing street-smart, wisecracking women with a heart of gold. She brought a sense of authenticity and relatability to her roles, whether in comedies or dramas. Her performances were characterized by quick delivery of witty lines, expressive facial features, and an ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and pathos. She had a distinctive voice and timing that made her stand out among her contemporaries.
Milestones
- Signed with Warner Bros. in 1930
- Appeared in 52 films during the 1930s
- Academy Award nomination for 'The Blue Veil' (1951)
- Starred in the 'Topper' film series
- Received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Published her autobiography 'Center Door Fancy' in 1972
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress - 'The Blue Veil' (1951)
- New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actress - 'The Blue Veil' (1951)
Nominated
- Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress - 'The Blue Veil' (1951)
- Emmy Award nomination for Outstanding Continuing Performance by a Supporting Actress in a Drama Series - 'Here Come the Brides' (1969)
Special Recognition
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (located at 6311 Hollywood Blvd)
- Inducted into the Western Performers Hall of Fame (posthumously)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Joan Blondell represented the archetype of the modern, independent woman of the 1930s, challenging traditional gender roles through her characters' wit and self-sufficiency. Her performances during the Great Depression provided audiences with relatable, resilient characters who faced adversity with humor and determination. Blondell's work in the 'Gold Diggers' series helped establish the musical comedy genre and influenced how women were portrayed in ensemble films. Her longevity in the industry demonstrated the evolving roles available to women in Hollywood, from glamorous leads to respected character actresses.
Lasting Legacy
Joan Blondell left an indelible mark on Hollywood as one of its most versatile and prolific character actresses. Her filmography serves as a chronicle of American cinema from the early sound era through the 1970s. Blondell's ability to adapt her career as she aged, transitioning from leading lady to character actor, provided a model for longevity in an industry known for discarding aging actresses. Her autobiography and numerous interviews have become valuable resources for film historians studying the Golden Age of Hollywood and the studio system.
Who They Inspired
Blondell influenced generations of actresses with her natural acting style and ability to blend comedy with dramatic moments. Her work in ensemble films helped establish the importance of strong supporting characters in Hollywood productions. Contemporary actresses who specialize in character roles and comedic timing, such as Betty White and Cloris Leachman, have cited Blondell as an influence. Her approach to playing 'women of the world' characters paved the way for more complex female roles in American cinema.
Off Screen
Joan Blondell was married three times and had one child. Her first marriage to cinematographer George Barnes ended in divorce after seven years. She then married actor Dick Powell, with whom she frequently co-starred, but this marriage also ended in divorce. Her third and longest marriage was to producer Mike Todd, which lasted until his death in a plane crash. Blondell was known for her down-to-earth personality and maintained close friendships with many of her Hollywood co-stars throughout her life.
Education
Attended Professional Children's School in New York City; later studied at North Carolina College for Women (now UNC Greensboro) for one year before returning to New York to pursue acting
Family
- George Barnes (1933-1936)
- Dick Powell (1936-1944)
- Mike Todd (1947-1958, his death)
Did You Know?
- Was discovered by Al Jolson while performing in a Broadway show
- Appeared in 52 films between 1930 and 1939, making her one of Hollywood's busiest actresses
- Was originally cast as Dorothy in 'The Wizard of Oz' before the role went to Judy Garland
- Her sister Gloria Blondell was also a successful actress
- Was a founding member of the Hollywood Canteen during World War II
- Once appeared in three films released in the same month (November 1933)
- Was nicknamed 'Blondie' by friends and colleagues
- Her third husband Mike Todd died in the same plane crash that almost killed Elizabeth Taylor
- Was a skilled poker player and often played with Hollywood celebrities
- Her final film appearance was in 'Grease' (1978) as the waitress Vi
- Was a Republican and supported Richard Nixon's presidential campaigns
- Was once considered for the role of Scarlett O'Hara in 'Gone with the Wind'
In Their Own Words
I'm the girl who lost her chance to be a star by being a good sport and taking all the parts nobody else wanted.
I never played a dame who didn't have a heart of gold under her tough exterior.
Hollywood is a place where they'll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul.
I was never a glamour girl. I was a character actress from the beginning.
The trouble with being in the rat race is that even if you win, you're still a rat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Joan Blondell?
Joan Blondell was a prolific American actress who starred in over 100 films during Hollywood's Golden Age. Known for her wisecracking characters and blonde hair, she was one of Warner Bros.' most valuable contract players during the 1930s and continued acting for five decades until her death in 1979.
What films is Joan Blondell best known for?
Joan Blondell is best known for her roles in 'Public Enemy' (1931), 'Gold Diggers of 1933', 'Footlight Parade' (1933), 'Topper Returns' (1941), 'The Blue Veil' (1951), and her final appearance in 'Grease' (1978). She was particularly famous for her work in Warner Bros. musicals and gangster films.
When was Joan Blondell born and when did she die?
Joan Blondell was born on August 30, 1906, in New York City, and died on December 25, 1979, in Santa Monica, California, at the age of 73. She passed away from leukemia on Christmas Day.
What awards did Joan Blondell win?
Joan Blondell won a Golden Globe Award and a New York Film Critics Circle Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in 'The Blue Veil' (1951). She was also nominated for an Academy Award for the same performance and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
What was Joan Blondell's acting style?
Joan Blondell was known for her naturalistic, fast-talking comedic style, often playing street-smart, wisecracking women. Her performances featured quick delivery of witty lines, expressive facial features, and an ability to seamlessly transition between comedy and drama, making her one of Hollywood's most versatile character actresses.
How many films did Joan Blondell appear in?
Joan Blondell appeared in over 100 films and television shows throughout her 52-year career. During the 1930s alone, she appeared in 52 films, making her one of the most prolific actresses of Hollywood's Golden Age.
Was Joan Blondell married to any famous actors?
Yes, Joan Blondell was married three times, including to actor Dick Powell from 1936 to 1944. The couple frequently co-starred together in films and were one of Hollywood's most popular screen couples during their marriage. Her third marriage was to producer Mike Todd until his death in 1958.
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Films
2 films
