A talented actress and singer who shone in Hollywood's Golden Age, starring in over 70 films and TV shows, including the iconic "The Age of Innocence".
Alexis Smith was a Canadian-born American actress, pin-up girl, and singer who radiated sensuality and glamour on the big screen, captivating audiences with her striking looks and captivating performances. Known for her iconic roles in Hollywood classics of the 1940s and her Tony Award-winning performance on Broadway in the 1970s, Smith remains an enduring symbol of vintage Hollywood elegance.
Born Margaret Alexis Smith on June 8, 1921, in Penticton, British Columbia, Canada, Smith was the only child of Gladys Mabel Smith (née FitzSimmons) and Alexander Smith. At the tender age of one, her family relocated to Los Angeles, where she grew up attending Hollywood High School alongside future talents like Nanette Fabray. Smith's professional debut came when she performed ballet at the Hollywood Bowl, which led to her discovery by a Warner Bros. talent scout in 1940 while attending Los Angeles City College.
Smith's early film roles were modest, consisting of uncredited bit parts in films like Lady with Red Hair (1940), She Couldn't Say No (1940), and Flight from Destiny (1941). Her first credited role came in Dive Bomber (1941), starring opposite Errol Flynn. This breakthrough led to her being groomed as a star by Warner Bros. Smith's subsequent films, including The Smiling Ghost (1941) and Steel Against the Sky (1941), solidified her status as a leading lady.
Smith co-starred with Errol Flynn in Gentleman Jim (1942), one of the year's most popular movies. Her lead appearance in The Constant Nymph (1943) further cemented her stardom. Throughout her career, Smith worked with notable directors and actors, including Michael Curtiz, Raoul Walsh, and Humphrey Bogart.
In the 1970s, Smith transitioned to the Broadway stage, earning critical acclaim and a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her role in Stephen Sondheim and James Goldman's Follies (1972).
Alexis Smith's contributions to Hollywood's Golden Age and Broadway have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her sultry, sophisticated presence on screen and stage continues to inspire new generations of performers and fans alike.
Alexis Smith passed away on June 9, 1993, leaving behind a rich body of work that continues to captivate audiences today.
Born in 1910
A charismatic radio personality, comedian, and actor who starred in numerous films and TV shows, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s, known for his wisecracking style and comedic timing.
Born in 1922
A beloved singer and actress who charmed audiences with her sweet voice and wholesome on-screen presence, starring in iconic films and releasing hit songs like "Sentimental Journey" and "Que Sera, Sera".
Born in 1921
A charismatic leading man of 1950s movie musicals, starring in iconic films like "Oklahoma!" and "Carousel", with a powerful baritone voice.
Born in 1919
A charismatic baritone who starred in classic movie musicals, bringing iconic roles to life with his powerful voice and charming on-screen presence.
Born in 1922
A talented actress and soprano who starred in popular 1940s and 1950s musical films, showcasing her beautiful voice and charming on-screen presence.
Born in 1921
A renowned tenor and actor, known for his powerful voice and iconic film performances, particularly in the 1940s and 1950s.
Born in 1912
A legendary triple threat in Hollywood's Golden Age, starring in iconic movie musicals like "Singin' in the Rain" and "Anchors Aweigh," known for his athletic dance style and charming on-screen presence.
Born in 1915
A legendary entertainer who charmed audiences with smooth vocals and iconic film roles, leaving an indelible mark on American popular culture.
