Introduction
Irene Dunne is a name that is synonymous with Hollywood’s Golden Age. She was an actress, singer, and philanthropist who graced the silver screen with her talent and beauty. Her contributions to the film industry are undeniable, and her legacy lives on long after her passing. In this post, we will explore the life of Irene Dunne, including her affairs, height, daughter, and memorable movies.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
Irene Dunne was born on December 20, 1898, in Louisville, Kentucky. She was the youngest of three children and grew up in a middle-class family. Dunne attended the Girls’ Classical High School in Louisville and later enrolled at the Peabody Conservatory of Music in Baltimore, Maryland.
Acting Career
Dunne’s acting career began in the 1920s when she moved to New York City and started appearing in Broadway productions. She made her film debut in 1930 in the movie “Leathernecking,” but it was her role in the 1931 film “Cimarron” that brought her critical acclaim. Dunne went on to star in several successful films, including “The Awful Truth,” “My Favorite Wife,” and “Love Affair.” She received five Academy Award nominations for Best Actress throughout her career.
Affairs and Personal Life
Marriage and Children
Irene Dunne was married to Dr. Francis Griffin from 1928 until his death in 1965. The couple had one child, a daughter named Mary Frances. Mary Frances followed in her mother’s footsteps and became an actress, appearing in several films and television shows throughout her career.
Affairs
Dunne was known for her beauty and charm, and she had several affairs throughout her life. One of her most well-known affairs was with Howard Hughes, the billionaire businessman and aviator. The two were romantically involved in the 1930s, and Hughes reportedly offered Dunne a contract worth $1 million a year to be his mistress. However, Dunne declined the offer and ended the affair.
Height and Legs
Height
Irene Dunne was known for her tall stature, standing at 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) tall. Her height made her stand out on screen and added to her elegant and regal presence.
Legs
Dunne was also known for her long and shapely legs, which were often highlighted in her films. She was considered one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood during her time, and her legs were a big part of her allure.
Memorable Movies
The Awful Truth
“The Awful Truth” is a 1937 screwball comedy film that starred Irene Dunne and Cary Grant. The film was a critical and commercial success and earned Dunne her second Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film is still considered one of the greatest comedies of all time.
Love Affair
“Love Affair” is a 1939 romantic drama film that starred Irene Dunne and Charles Boyer. The film was a huge success and earned Dunne her fourth Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film was later remade in 1957 as “An Affair to Remember.”
My Favorite Wife
“My Favorite Wife” is a 1940 screwball comedy film that starred Irene Dunne and Cary Grant. The film was a box office success and is still considered one of the best comedies of all time. The film was also remade in 1963 as “Move Over, Darling.”
Conclusion
Irene Dunne was a talented and beautiful actress who left a lasting impression on Hollywood’s Golden Age. Her legacy lives on through her memorable films and her contributions to the film industry. Dunne’s personal life was just as intriguing as her professional one, with several affairs and a long and happy marriage. She will always be remembered as one of the most iconic actresses of all time.
