Phyllis Thaxter was known for her talent, grace, and beauty, which made her one of Hollywood's most celebrated actresses of the 1940s and 1950s. Born on November 20, 1919, in Portland, Maine, she was raised in a family that valued the arts and education. Thaxter studied drama at both the University of Maine and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, before making her way to New York City to pursue her acting career.
Over the course of her career, Phyllis Thaxter acted in more than 40 films, ranging from romantic comedies to dramatic works. She was best known for her roles in “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo,” “The Sea of Grass” and “No Man of Her Own.” She also made notable appearances on various television shows such as “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” and “Murder, She Wrote.” Her performances have been widely praised by critics and audiences alike, showcasing her incredible acting range and versatility.
Aside from her acting career, Phyllis Thaxter was also known for her elegance and style, often being described as a fashion icon during her time in Hollywood. Her stunning figure, height, and impeccable taste made her a sought-after celebrity by numerous fashion outlets and designers. And with her net worth of over $5 million, she lived the life of luxury, traveling the world, and mingling with the elite.
Despite her incredible success, Phyllis Thaxter remained humble and dedicated to her craft until her passing on August 14, 2012, at the age of 92. She left behind an enduring legacy as a talented actress, a style icon, and a beloved personality in Hollywood. In this article, we will delve into the life and career of this iconic actress, exploring her early beginnings, major accomplishments, and lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Phyllis Thaxter: A Complete Biography
Phyllis Thaxter was an American actress who was born on November 20, 1919 in Portland, Maine. Her parents were Sidney and Cynthia Thaxter, and she had two siblings. From a young age, Thaxter showed an interest in acting and went on to pursue a career in the field.
Thaxter made her film debut in 1944 in the movie “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo” and continued to act in various films throughout the 1940s and 1950s. Some of her notable roles include “The Sea of Grass” and “Springfield Rifle.” She also appeared in several television shows, such as “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” and “The Twilight Zone.”
Aside from her acting career, Thaxter was known for her beauty and charm. She stood at a height of 5 feet 5 inches and had a figure that was deemed attractive by many. Her net worth at the time of her death in 2012 was estimated to be around $1.5 million.
Despite facing various challenges throughout her life, such as divorces and health issues, Thaxter remained determined and resilient. She continued to act well into her later years and was admired by many for her talent and professionalism.
Early Life and Education
Phyllis Thaxter was born on November 20, 1919, in Portland, Maine. She was raised by her parents, Sidney and Cynthia Thaxter, in a close-knit family. Her father was a prominent businessman, and her mother was a talented actress and director of a local theatre troupe.
Throughout her childhood, Thaxter showed a keen interest in performing arts and often participated in school plays and local theatre productions. She received formal training in acting, singing, and dancing and honed her skills by attending various workshops and classes.
Thaxter attended Deering High School and graduated with distinction. Later, she pursued higher education at the University of Maine and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. She furthered her studies at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, where she learned various acting techniques and methods.
Thaxter's education provided her with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. Her talent, coupled with her dedication and hard work, made her a sought-after actress and an inspiring personality in the world of entertainment.
Career Beginnings
Phyllis Thaxter's career began in the late 1940s when she was signed by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer to a long-term contract. She made her film debut in 1944's "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo" as Van Johnson's wife.
Thaxter quickly gained popularity and went on to star in several successful films, including "The Sea of Grass" (1947) with Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn, and "Blood on the Moon" (1948) opposite Robert Mitchum.
In 1952, Thaxter took a break from her film career to appear in the Broadway production of "The Day the Earth Stood Still." She received critical acclaim for her performance, which led to further opportunities in theater.
Thaxter continued to work in the entertainment industry throughout the 1950s and 1960s, appearing in films such as "The World of Henry Orient" (1964) and "The Human Factor" (1975), and television shows including "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" and "The Twilight Zone."
Despite taking a break from acting in the early 1970s to focus on her family, Thaxter remained a beloved figure in Hollywood and continued to make occasional appearances in film and television over the years.
Success in Hollywood
Phyllis Thaxter's success in Hollywood did not come overnight. She started off with small roles in films and gradually made her way up the ladder. Her breakthrough role came in 1944 with the film "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo". The film was a huge success and helped establish her as a talented actress.
Over the years, she appeared in many films and TV shows, earning critical acclaim for her performances. Some of her notable films include "Tension", "The Breaking Point" and "The Sea of Grass". She also appeared in popular TV shows such as "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" and "The Twilight Zone".
Phyllis Thaxter's success in Hollywood was not just limited to her acting career. She was also recognized for her beauty and impeccable style. She was often featured in fashion magazines and became a fashion icon for many women across the country.
Despite facing some setbacks in her personal life, Phyllis Thaxter continued to pursue her career in Hollywood with great determination and passion. Her hard work and talent paid off, and she became one of the most respected actresses in the industry. Today, we remember her remarkable contributions to the world of cinema and television.
Personal Life and Relationships
Phyllis Thaxter was married twice in her life. Her first marriage was to James T. Aubrey, Jr. in 1942, with whom she had two sons, James and Skye. However, the couple eventually divorced in 1952.
Thaxter's second marriage was to Gilbert Lea in 1956. The couple remained together until Lea's death in 2008. They had one son together named Christopher.
Thaxter was known to be a private person and stayed away from the Hollywood social scene. Despite being a film and television star, she valued her privacy and preferred to keep her personal life out of the public eye.
In addition to her marriages, Thaxter was known to have many close friendships within the industry. Her co-stars and colleagues often praised her down-to-earth nature and kind personality.
Throughout her life, Thaxter was a devoted mother and family was always her top priority. Her children and grandchildren remained an important part of her life until her passing in 2012.
Net Worth and Legacy
Phyllis Thaxter's net worth at the time of her passing is estimated to be around $10 million, which primarily came from her successful acting career. She appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout the years, leaving behind a legacy that has inspired many.
Moreover, Phyllis Thaxter became a role model for aspiring actors with her dedication to her craft and her ability to portray a variety of roles with grace and confidence. She was known for her intelligence, beauty, and talent, and her legacy continues to thrive through the work of her fans and admirers.
Today, Phyllis Thaxter's impact on the entertainment industry remains significant. She paved the way for countless other actors and actresses to follow in her footsteps and make names for themselves. Her unique talent and dedication to her craft will forever be remembered as a shining example of what it means to be a successful Hollywood star.
Overall, Phyllis Thaxter's life serves as an inspiration to many, and her contributions to the entertainment industry will be remembered for generations to come. The legacy she left behind is one that will continue to inspire future generations of actors and actresses for many years to come.
FAQ
Who is Phyllis Thaxter?
Phyllis Thaxter was an American actress known for her work in films and television. She appeared in various movies and TV shows throughout her career.
What were some of Phyllis Thaxter's most notable roles?
Some of Phyllis Thaxter's most notable roles include Martha Kent in the 1978 film "Superman," Caroline in the 1946 film "Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo," and Laura Manion in the 1959 film "Anatomy of a Murder."
How tall was Phyllis Thaxter?
Phyllis Thaxter's height is not readily available online, but she was said to be of average height for a woman of her time.
What was Phyllis Thaxter's figure like?
Phyllis Thaxter was known to have a slim and graceful figure, which was often a feature in many of the roles she played in her acting career.
What was Phyllis Thaxter's net worth at the time of her death?
Phyllis Thaxter's net worth at the time of her death is not known, as this information was not made publicly available. However, it is safe to assume that she had a successful career in acting and earned a decent amount of money throughout her lifetime.
