Joan Fontaine was an American actress known for her exceptional performances in Hollywood movies. Born on October 22, 1917, in Tokyo, Japan, she went on to become one of the most celebrated actresses of her time.

With a career spanning over five decades, Fontaine appeared in more than 45 films, earning critical acclaim and several awards, including an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in Alfred Hitchcock’s “Suspicion”. She was also known for her on-screen chemistry with leading men such as Cary Grant and Laurence Olivier, and her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace. Let’s take a closer look at the life and legacy of this talented actress.

Joan Fontaine was a British-American actress known for her roles in classic Hollywood films such as “Rebecca” and “Suspicion.” Born in Tokyo in 1917, Fontaine began her career in film in the late 1930s and quickly became a popular leading lady. She won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Suspicion” and was also nominated for her performances in “Rebecca” and “The Constant Nymph.” Fontaine’s career spanned several decades and she continued to act on stage and screen until the 1990s. She passed away in 2013 at the age of 96.

Joan Fontaine: Latest Information

Joan Fontaine was a famous actress known for her roles in classic Hollywood films such as “Rebecca” and “Suspicion”. She was 5 ft 3 in (1.60 m) tall and weighed 115 lbs (52 kg). Her eye color was hazel and she had blonde hair. Her shoe size in the UK was 4.5.

Family

Joan Fontaine was born to Walter Augustus de Havilland and Lilian Augusta Ruse. Her sister, Olivia de Havilland, is also a well-known actress. Unfortunately, the information regarding Joan Fontaine’s weight is not available.

Unknown Facts about Joan Fontaine

Who is Joan Fontaine?

Joan Fontaine, born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1917, was an American actress who rose to fame during the Golden Age of Hollywood. She was the younger sister of fellow actress Olivia de Havilland and the only performer to win an Academy Award for a leading role in a Hitchcock film. But do you know there are some lesser-known facts about Joan Fontaine that are equally fascinating?

What are some unknown facts about Joan Fontaine?

Despite her glamorous Hollywood image, Joan Fontaine had a tumultuous personal life. She had a strained relationship with her sister, Olivia de Havilland, which began during their childhood and continued into their adult lives. Additionally, Joan Fontaine was married four times, and her second husband was actor Brian Aherne, with whom she shared a deep love of aviation. In fact, Joan Fontaine was a licensed pilot and even flew herself to the set of her films.

Discover more about Joan Fontaine’s fascinating life

If you’re interested in learning more about the life and career of Joan Fontaine, you won’t want to miss our upcoming article. We’ve spoken with some of the leading experts in Hollywood history to bring you a comprehensive look at the life of this incredible actress. From her early years in Japan to her Hollywood stardom and beyond, we’ll explore all the fascinating details of Joan Fontaine’s life. So, stay tuned and get ready to discover the unknown facts about Joan Fontaine.

Joan Fontaine: A Legendary Actress

Early Life and Career

Childhood and Family

Joan Fontaine was born on October 22, 1917, in Tokyo, Japan. Her parents were British and American, and her father was a British officer stationed in Japan. After her parents’ divorce, Joan and her older sister, Olivia de Havilland, moved to California with their mother. Joan attended several schools in California and later went to New York to pursue a career in acting.

Early Acting Career

Joan Fontaine began her acting career in 1935 with a small role in the film “No More Ladies.” She then appeared in several B-movies before getting her big break in the film “Rebecca” (1940). Her performance in the film earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. She later won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in “Suspicion” (1941).

Success in Hollywood

In the 1940s, Joan Fontaine became one of Hollywood’s biggest stars. She appeared in several successful films, including “Jane Eyre” (1943), “The Constant Nymph” (1943), and “Ivy” (1947). She also worked with some of the most famous directors of the time, including Alfred Hitchcock, Max Ophuls, and George Stevens.

Personal Life and Later Career

Marriages and Relationships

Joan Fontaine was married four times. Her first marriage was to actor Brian Aherne in 1939, which ended in divorce in 1945. She then married producer William Dozier in 1946, but the marriage ended in 1951. Her third marriage was to Collier Young, a producer and writer, in 1952. They divorced in 1961. Her final marriage was to sportsman Alfred Wright Jr., which ended in 1969. Joan also had several high-profile relationships, including with Howard Hughes and Bing Crosby.

Later Career

In the 1950s and 1960s, Joan Fontaine continued to act in films and on television. She appeared in several successful films, including “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” (1956) and “Tender Is the Night” (1962). She also appeared in several television shows, including “The Alfred Hitchcock Hour” and “Wagon Train.” In the 1970s and 1980s, Joan appeared in several stage productions, including “The Lion in Winter” and “Cactus Flower.”

Awards and Legacy

Joan Fontaine received several awards and nominations throughout her career. In addition to her two Academy Awards, she also won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress for her role in “Ivy” (1947). In 1993, she was honored with the National Medal of Arts by President Bill Clinton. Joan Fontaine’s legacy as a talented actress and Hollywood icon continues to inspire future generations.

Final Thoughts

Inspiring Women in Hollywood

Joan Fontaine’s life and career are a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication. She overcame personal and professional obstacles to become one of the most successful actresses of her time. Her legacy as an inspiring and talented woman in Hollywood continues to inspire generations of actresses and filmmakers. Joan Fontaine will always be remembered as a true Hollywood legend.

Continued Influence on Film Industry

Joan Fontaine’s impact on the film industry is undeniable. She worked with some of the greatest directors and actors of her time, forging a path for future generations of actors and actresses. Her talent and dedication to her craft continue to inspire filmmakers today. Her contributions to the film industry will always be remembered and celebrated.

Joan Fontaine on her Oscar win for Hitchcock’s Suspicion: CBC Archives | CBC

Joan Fontaine was a highly talented and successful actress of her time. Her performances in various movies were always commendable, and she was well-respected in the film industry. Her natural beauty, grace, and poise made her one of the most iconic actresses of her generation.

Despite facing numerous challenges in her personal and professional life, Joan Fontaine continued to pursue her passion for acting. She was a true inspiration to many aspiring actors and actresses, proving that with hard work, dedication, and talent, anything is possible.

In conclusion, Joan Fontaine’s legacy in the film industry will always be remembered. She left behind a lasting impact on cinema, and her performances will continue to inspire generations to come. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. Joan Fontaine will forever be remembered as a true icon of the silver screen, and her contribution to the world of cinema will never be forgotten.