Introduction
Gloria Grahame was an American actress who was known for her captivating performances in films during the 1940s and 1950s. Her talent and beauty made her one of the most sought-after actresses of her time. However, her life was not without controversy. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of Gloria Grahame and explore her biography, filmography, affairs, measurements, and cause of death.
Biography
Early Life
Gloria Grahame was born on November 28, 1923, in Los Angeles, California. Her parents were Jeanne McDougall and Reginald Michael Bloxam, who were both actors. Her mother later divorced her father and married actor Stanley Clements. Grahame attended Hollywood High School but dropped out at the age of 16 to pursue a career in acting. She made her debut on Broadway in 1944 in the play “Blithe Spirit.”
Career
Grahame’s career began to take off in the 1940s when she signed a contract with MGM. She appeared in several films, including “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “The Bad and the Beautiful,” for which she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She also appeared in several film noirs, such as “In a Lonely Place” and “The Big Heat.” Grahame’s career declined in the 1960s, and she began to appear in smaller roles. However, she continued to act until her death in 1981.
Filmography
Notable Films
Gloria Grahame appeared in over 40 films throughout her career. Some of her most notable films include:
- The Bad and the Beautiful (1952)
- In a Lonely Place (1950)
- The Big Heat (1953)
- It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
- Oklahoma! (1955)
Affairs
Marriages
Gloria Grahame was married four times throughout her life. Her first marriage was to actor Stanley Clements in 1945. They had a daughter together, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1948. She then married director Nicholas Ray in 1948, and they had a son together. However, the marriage was tumultuous, and they divorced in 1952. Grahame then married producer Cy Howard in 1954, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1957. Her final marriage was to actor Anthony Ray, Nicholas Ray’s son, in 1960. They divorced in 1974.
Affair with Stepson
Grahame’s most scandalous affair was with her fourth husband’s son, Anthony Ray. The affair began when Ray was 13 years old and Grahame was 34. They began a sexual relationship when Ray was 16, and Grahame was 37. The affair caused a scandal and led to Grahame’s eventual divorce from Anthony Ray.
Measurements
Physical Appearance
Gloria Grahame was known for her beauty and sex appeal. She stood at 5’6″ and had a slender figure. Her measurements were 34-24-34.
Plastic Surgery
Grahame was also known for her plastic surgery. She underwent several procedures, including a nose job and a facelift. Her plastic surgery was often criticized, and some believed it affected her career.
Cause of Death
Cancer
Gloria Grahame died on October 5, 1981, at the age of 57. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer in 1974 and underwent a mastectomy. However, the cancer returned and spread to her bones, leading to her death.
Conclusion
Gloria Grahame was a talented actress who had a successful career in Hollywood. However, her personal life was filled with controversy and scandal. Despite this, she remains a beloved figure in film history, and her performances continue to captivate audiences today.
