Introduction
Jane Wyman was an American actress, singer, and dancer who made a name for herself in Hollywood. She was known for her beauty, talent, and versatility, and was one of the most popular actresses of her time. Wyman was also known for her tumultuous personal life, which included several affairs and marriages. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the life and legacy of Jane Wyman, from her affairs to her estate inheritance.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Family
Jane Wyman was born Sarah Jane Mayfield on January 5, 1917, in St. Joseph, Missouri. She was the daughter of Manning Jeffries Mayfield, a meal company laborer, and Gladys Hope Christian, a doctor’s stenographer. Wyman had a difficult childhood, as her parents divorced when she was just four years old. She moved with her mother and younger brother to California, where they lived with her grandparents.
Acting Career
Wyman began her acting career in the 1930s, appearing in small roles in films such as “Gold Diggers of 1937” and “The Kid from Kokomo.” She gained wider recognition for her role in the film “The Lost Weekend” in 1945, for which she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Wyman went on to star in several successful films, including “Johnny Belinda,” “The Yearling,” and “All That Heaven Allows.”
Affairs and Marriages
Marriages
Jane Wyman was married five times throughout her life. Her first marriage was to Myron Futterman in 1937, but the couple divorced just one year later. She then married actor Ronald Reagan in 1940, and the couple had two children together, Maureen and Michael. However, they divorced in 1948. Wyman went on to marry three more times, to Frederick Karger, Gene Markey, and finally to Ronald Reagan’s former business manager, Frank Sinatra.
Affairs
Wyman was also known for her affairs with several high-profile men throughout her life, including Johnny Mercer and Bing Crosby. She was even rumored to have had an affair with John F. Kennedy before he became president.
Estate Inheritance
Christine Reagan
When Jane Wyman passed away in 2007 at the age of 90, she left behind an estate worth an estimated $15 million. Her daughter, Christine Reagan, inherited the majority of her estate, including her home in Palm Springs and her collection of art and jewelry.
Charitable Donations
Wyman was also known for her philanthropic efforts throughout her life. She donated generously to several charities, including the Arthritis Foundation, the American Cancer Society, and the United Cerebral Palsy Association. In her will, she left a significant portion of her estate to charity.
Conclusion
Jane Wyman was a talented actress who made a name for herself in Hollywood. She was also known for her complicated personal life, which included several marriages and affairs. When she passed away, she left behind a legacy of philanthropy and generosity, as well as an estate that was inherited by her daughter and donated to charity. Jane Wyman will always be remembered for her contributions to the entertainment industry and her commitment to making a difference in the world.
