Sally Blane: The Prolific Actress of Hollywood's Golden Age

A Career Spanning Over 100 Films

Sally Blane, born Elizabeth Jane Young, was an American actress who left an indelible mark on Hollywood's Golden Age with her impressive filmography of over 100 movies. From her early beginnings as a child star to her transition into adult roles, Blane's career was marked by her versatility and range.

Early Life and Career

Born on July 11, 1910, in Salida, Colorado, Blane was part of a talented family of actresses, including her sisters Polly Ann Young, Loretta Young, and Georgiana Young, who was married to Mexican actor Ricardo Montalbán. Blane's entry into the film industry was at the tender age of seven, when she appeared in the 1917 film "Sirens of the Sea".

Rise to Prominence in the 1920s and 1930s

The 1920s saw Blane return to the film industry as an adult, playing small parts in several silent films. Her breakthrough came in the 1930s, when she appeared in a string of low-budget films, including "Once a Sinner" (1930), "A Dangerous Affair" (1930), "Arabian Knights" (1931), and "Annabelle's Affairs" (1931). Her performances in these films showcased her talent and charm, making her a sought-after actress of the time.

Risque Roles and the Hays Code

Blane's bold performances in films like "Annabelle's Affairs" (1931) and "Against the Law" (1934) were considered risqué for their time, predating the industry's Hays Code, which largely forbade such shots after 1934. Although some of her scenes are now considered lost, they remain a testament to her fearlessness as an actress.

Personal Life and Marriages

Blane's personal life was marked by romance and marriage. She was romantically linked to singer Russ Columbo and later married actor and director Norman Foster in October 1935. The couple had two children, Gretchen and Robert, and remained together until their divorce.

Later Years and Legacy

Although Blane's film appearances began to fade in the late 1930s, she continued to act in smaller roles, including "Fighting Mad" (1939) and "A Bullet for Joey" (1955). Her legacy as a prolific actress of Hollywood's Golden Age remains unparalleled, with her contributions to the film industry still celebrated today.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

• Blane was a devout Catholic and educated in convent school.
• She appeared onscreen with all her sisters, including Loretta Young, in "The Story of Alexander Graham Bell" (1939).
• Blane's daughter, Gretchen, was named after her sister Loretta Young, whose birth name was Gretchen.

Final Years and Passing

Sally Blane passed away on August 27, 1997, leaving behind a rich legacy of film performances that continue to inspire generations of actors and film enthusiasts alike.