Lynn Fontanne is an iconic figure in the world of theatre. Her remarkable talent, dedication, and passion for acting made her one of the most sought-after performers of her time. Born in 1887 in Essex, England, Lynn Fontanne began her acting career at a young age and quickly rose to fame with her incredible performances on stage.
Throughout her illustrious career, Lynn Fontanne became known for her ability to captivate audiences with her stunning stage presence and powerful performances. Her mastery of the craft of acting, combined with her poise, grace, and elegance, made her a beloved figure in the theatre world, inspiring countless actors and actresses who followed in her footsteps.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the life and career of Lynn Fontanne, exploring her age, height, figure, and net worth, as well as the many accomplishments and accolades she achieved during her time in the spotlight.
Lynn Fontanne: A Biography
Lynn Fontanne was a renowned English-American actress who has left an indelible mark on the world of theater. Born in London in 1887, Fontanne began her acting career at a young age and quickly made a name for herself in the theater world.
Throughout her career, Fontanne was widely praised for her incredible acting ability and range. Her performances were characterized by a deep understanding of the characters she portrayed, and she was known for her ability to masterfully convey complex emotions and motivations on stage.
Fontanne's talent was recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout her career, including a special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1970. She was also inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 1971.
Aside from her acting career, Fontanne was also known for being half of one of the most legendary partnerships in theater history. Along with her husband Alfred Lunt, Fontanne appeared in numerous productions throughout their nearly 55-year marriage, and their work together is still celebrated today.
Although Fontanne passed away in 1983, her legacy lives on through the countless roles she brought to life on stage and the impact she had on the world of theater as a whole.
Lynn Fontanne: Early Life and Career
Lynn Fontanne was born on December 6, 1887, in Woodford, London, United Kingdom. She was the daughter of Jules Fontanne, a Frenchman, and Frances Ellen Compton, an Englishwoman. Fontanne had a privileged upbringing, and she attended various prestigious schools in England.
At the age of 13, Fontanne made her stage debut at the Haymarket Theatre in London. However, it was not until 1909 that she began her professional acting career with a minor role in the play "His House in Order". She went on to perform in various plays across London before she moved to the United States in 1916.
Fontanne's big break came when she was cast in the play "The Age of Innocence" by the Theatre Guild in 1928. The performance was a huge success, and it led to a long-standing collaboration between Fontanne and her costar and husband, Alfred Lunt. The two were often referred to as the "Royal Couple of Broadway". They went on to perform in numerous plays together, including "The Guardsman", "Design for Living", and "The Taming of the Shrew".
Fontanne's acting career spanned over five decades, and she was widely recognized as one of the greatest actresses of her time. She received numerous accolades for her performances, including two Tony Awards for Best Actress in a Play.
Rise to Fame
Lynn Fontanne's rise to fame began in London's West End, where she made her debut in 1909 with the touring production of 'The Merry Wives of Windsor.' She quickly gained recognition for her outstanding performances and became a sought-after stage actress in London.
In 1914, she appeared on Broadway where she met and fell in love with Alfred Lunt, an actor who would later become her husband and lifelong collaborator. Together, they performed in numerous productions, building a reputation as one of the most beloved acting duos of all time.
Their breakthrough came with the 1924 production of 'The Guardsman,' which established them as stars of the theatre and earned them critical acclaim. The following year, they were offered a contract by the Theatre Guild, a leading theatre company in the US.
Their success continued throughout the 1920s and 1930s, with memorable performances in plays such as 'Design for Living,' 'The Taming of the Shrew,' and 'Elizabeth the Queen.' They were also praised for their work in films, including 'The Guardsman' and 'The Pirate.'
By the time they retired from the stage in 1960, Lynn Fontanne and Alfred Lunt had left an indelible mark on the world of theatre and had become legends in their own right. Their legacy continues to inspire and influence actors and theatre-lovers around the world.
Personal Life: Age, Height, Figure
Lynn Fontanne was born on December 6, 1887, in Woodford, Essex, England. She passed away on July 30, 1983, in Genesee Depot, Wisconsin, USA, at the age of 95. She was known for her distinctive height and figure.
Fontanne stood at 5'5" tall, which was considered quite tall for a woman during her time. She had a slender and elegant figure that suited the glamorous roles she played on stage.
Fontanne was known for her charismatic personality and her ability to captivate audiences with her performances. She was devoted to her craft and spent much of her life performing on stage alongside her husband, Alfred Lunt.
Despite being famous, Fontanne was a private person who kept her personal life out of the public eye. She was dedicated to her family and valued her privacy above all else.
- Birthdate: December 6, 1887
- Height: 5'5"
- Figure: Slender and elegant
- Age at passing: 95
Legacy and Net Worth
Lynn Fontanne was a Tony Award-winning actress who left a lasting legacy on the stage. Her performances in numerous productions, both with her husband Alfred Lunt and on her own, were widely acclaimed, and she is remembered as one of the greatest actresses of her time.
Aside from her legacy as an actress, Fontanne also left behind a considerable net worth. While the exact figure is difficult to estimate, she had a successful career in theatre and film and was well-compensated for her work. Additionally, she and her husband invested in real estate and other ventures, further contributing to their wealth.
- Fontanne's estate, which included a home in Manhattan and a country estate in Genesee Depot, Wisconsin, was valued at over $3 million.
- Upon her death, Fontanne left behind a trust that provides financial support for the theatre arts, allowing her legacy to continue to support the art form for which she was so passionate.
While her net worth was undoubtedly significant, Fontanne's true legacy lies in her contributions to the theatre, her dedication to her craft, and the inspiration she provided to future generations of performers.
FAQ
Who is Lynn Fontanne?
Lynn Fontanne was an English actress who made her career on Broadway and in London's West End during the early 20th century. She was known for her outstanding acting skills and her collaborations with her husband, Alfred Lunt.
What is Lynn Fontanne's net worth?
The exact net worth of Lynn Fontanne is unknown as she passed away in 1983. However, she was a successful actress and won several awards, including the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play. So, it is safe to assume that her net worth was considerable.
How tall was Lynn Fontanne?
Lynn Fontanne was reportedly 5 feet 5 inches tall, which is around 165 cm.
What kind of figure did Lynn Fontanne have?
Unfortunately, there is no information available regarding Lynn Fontanne's figure. However, it is known that she maintained a slim physique through her life and was always elegantly dressed.
What roles did Lynn Fontanne play during her career?
Lynn Fontanne played a wide range of roles during her career. Some of her most notable roles include Amanda Wingfield in "The Glass Menagerie," Elizabeth I in "Elizabeth the Queen," and Jane Marbury in "The Guardsman." She was known for her versatility and ability to bring depth and nuance to any character she played.