Rosalind Russell
Actor
About Rosalind Russell
Rosalind Russell was one of Hollywood's most versatile and accomplished actresses during the Golden Age of cinema. Born in Connecticut in 1907, she began her career on Broadway before transitioning to films in the 1930s. Russell was known for her sharp wit, sophisticated comedy timing, and ability to portray strong, independent female characters at a time when such roles were rare. Her breakthrough came with 'His Girl Friday' (1940), where she established herself as one of cinema's greatest comediennes alongside Cary Grant. Throughout her career, she successfully balanced comedy with dramatic roles, earning critical acclaim and five Academy Award nominations. Russell continued working in film, television, and theater through the 1960s, becoming a beloved figure in American entertainment. Her final years were marked by her battle with cancer, which she kept private while continuing to work until her death in 1976.
The Craft
On Screen
Russell was renowned for her rapid-fire delivery, sophisticated wit, and ability to portray intelligent, strong-willed women. Her acting style combined impeccable comedic timing with genuine emotional depth, allowing her to excel in both screwball comedies and serious dramas. She had a distinctive voice and mannerisms that made her instantly recognizable, and she specialized in playing career women who were ahead of their time. Russell's approach was naturalistic yet polished, bringing authenticity to even the most outlandish comedic situations.
Milestones
- Broadway debut in 'The Little Dog Laughed' (1934)
- Film debut in 'Evelyn Prentice' (1934)
- Breakthrough role in 'His Girl Friday' (1940)
- Academy Award nomination for 'My Sister Eileen' (1942)
- Tony Award for 'Wonderful Town' (1953)
- Academy Award nomination for 'Picnic' (1955)
- Iconic performance in 'Auntie Mame' (1958)
- Final film role in 'The Cheap Detective' (1978)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for 'Auntie Mame' (1958)
- Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for 'Wonderful Town' (1953)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for 'Mame' (1974)
- Sarah Siddons Award (1962)
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1960)
Nominated
- Academy Award for Best Actress for 'My Sister Eileen' (1942)
- Academy Award for Best Actress for 'Sister Kenny' (1946)
- Academy Award for Best Actress for 'Mourning Becomes Electra' (1947)
- Academy Award for Best Actress for 'Picnic' (1955)
- Academy Award for Best Actress for 'Auntie Mame' (1958)
- BAFTA Award for Best Foreign Actress for 'Auntie Mame' (1959)
- Golden Globe for Best Actress for 'The Trouble with Angels' (1966)
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame Star at 1708 Vine Street
- American Theatre Hall of Fame inductee (1972)
- Kennedy Center Honors (1975, declined due to illness)
- AFI's Greatest Screen Legends ranking (1999)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Rosalind Russell significantly impacted cinema by pioneering the archetype of the intelligent, independent career woman in Hollywood films. At a time when most female roles were relegated to romantic interests or domestic characters, Russell's characters were professionals, journalists, and businesswomen who could hold their own against male counterparts. Her rapid-fire dialogue delivery in 'His Girl Friday' set a new standard for screwball comedy and influenced generations of comic actors. Russell's portrayal of strong women helped pave the way for more complex female characters in American cinema, challenging traditional gender roles and audience expectations.
Lasting Legacy
Rosalind Russell's legacy endures through her memorable performances and the trail she blazed for women in entertainment. She demonstrated that actresses could excel in both comedy and drama, breaking the typecasting that plagued many of her contemporaries. Her role as Mame Dennis became iconic, with the character representing free-spirited independence and nonconformity. Russell's influence extends beyond film to theater, where her Tony-winning performance in 'Wonderful Town' showcased her versatility. Today, she is remembered as one of Hollywood's most sophisticated and talented actresses, whose work continues to inspire performers and entertain audiences.
Who They Inspired
Russell influenced countless actors with her unique blend of wit and warmth. Her comedic timing and delivery style have been studied and emulated by performers from Barbra Streisand to Meryl Streep. The way she portrayed intelligent, career-driven women helped change Hollywood's perception of female characters, making room for more complex and empowered roles. Russell's success in both film and theater demonstrated that actors could successfully cross between mediums, inspiring later performers like Julie Andrews and Bernadette Peters. Her ability to command the screen with intelligence and humor set a standard for female leads that continues to influence casting and character development today.
Off Screen
Rosalind Russell married producer Frederick Brisson in 1941, and their marriage lasted until her death in 1976. They had one son, Lance Brisson, who became a television producer. Despite her glamorous Hollywood image, Russell was known for her down-to-earth personality and strong Catholic faith. She was actively involved in charitable work, particularly with organizations supporting cancer research and children's welfare. Russell was also known for her close friendships with other Hollywood stars, including Cary Grant and Liza Minnelli.
Education
Attended Marymount College in Tarrytown, New York; studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts
Family
- Frederick Brisson (1941-1976)
Did You Know?
- She was nicknamed 'The Girl Who Missed the Oscar' after receiving five nominations without winning
- Russell was 6' tall, unusually tall for actresses of her era
- She turned down the role of Blanche DuBois in 'A Streetcar Named Desire'
- Her husband Frederick Brisson called her 'My Funny Valentine'
- She was a devout Catholic who attended Mass daily
- Russell was a skilled pianist and considered a music career before acting
- She was one of the first stars to speak publicly about cancer, though she never revealed her own battle with the disease
- Her role in 'His Girl Friday' was originally written for a man
- She was a close friend of President John F. Kennedy and his family
- Russell was offered the role of Norma Desmond in 'Sunset Boulevard' but turned it down
In Their Own Words
Acting is standing up naked and turning around very slowly.
I'm not a comedienne. I'm an actress who can play comedy.
The only thing an actor has to sell is himself.
I've always been a character actress, even when I was playing the lead.
Success is a state of mind. If you want success, start thinking of yourself as a success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Rosalind Russell?
Rosalind Russell was a celebrated American actress known for her sharp wit, sophisticated comedy timing, and ability to portray strong, independent women during Hollywood's Golden Age. She excelled in both dramatic and comedic roles, earning five Academy Award nominations and winning a Tony Award for her work on Broadway.
What films is Rosalind Russell best known for?
Russell is best known for 'His Girl Friday' (1940) where she starred opposite Cary Grant, 'Auntie Mame' (1958), 'The Women' (1939), 'Picnic' (1955), 'My Sister Eileen' (1942), and 'Gypsy' (1962). Her role as Mame Dennis became particularly iconic.
When was Rosalind Russell born and when did she die?
Rosalind Russell was born on June 4, 1907, in Waterbury, Connecticut, and died on November 28, 1976, in Beverly Hills, California, from cancer at the age of 69.
What awards did Rosalind Russell win?
Russell won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for 'Wonderful Town' (1953), a Golden Globe for 'Auntie Mame' (1958), and another Golden Globe for the TV version of 'Mame' (1974). She received five Academy Award nominations but never won an Oscar.
What was Rosalind Russell's acting style?
Russell was known for her rapid-fire delivery, sophisticated wit, and naturalistic yet polished approach. She specialized in portraying intelligent, career-driven women with impeccable comedic timing and genuine emotional depth, excelling in both screwball comedies and serious dramas.
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Films
1 film
