Kay Francis was one of the most celebrated actresses of the 1930s and early 1940s, known for her glamorous looks, distinctive voice, and iconic performances. Often referred to as the “Queen of Warner Bros.,” she was one of the highest-paid actresses of her time. In this article, we’ll explore every detail of her fascinating life, focusing on her career, personal milestones, and intriguing facts about Kay Francis, including her height, which has been a point of interest for fans and researchers.
Quick Bio
| Name | Kay Francis |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Katharine Edwina Gibbs |
| Birth Date | January 13, 1905 |
| Birth Place | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA |
| Profession | Actress |
| Years Active | 1929–1946 |
| Net Worth at Death | Estimated $1.5 million (equivalent to approx. $25 million today) |
Early Life and Background
Kay Francis was born Katharine Edwina Gibbs in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on January 13, 1905. Her mother, Katherine Clinton, was a stage actress, which gave Kay an early glimpse into the world of performance and glamour. Her father, Joseph Sprague Gibbs, worked as a businessman but was largely absent from her life.
Kay spent much of her childhood in various cities, including Dallas, Texas, and New York City, as her mother toured with theatrical productions. This itinerant lifestyle exposed her to different cultures and created a sense of instability. Kay’s early life was marked by rebellion, and she frequently expressed a desire to escape traditional societal norms.
Age and Physical Appearance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Age at Death | 63 years (1905–1968) |
| Height | 5’9″ (175 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 140 lbs (63 kg) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
Kay Francis’ height was an impressive 5’9″ (175 cm), which made her stand out in Hollywood during her time. Her statuesque figure and elegant posture contributed to her image as one of the most glamorous actresses of the 1930s. Kay’s sophisticated appearance and deep, husky voice made her an iconic leading lady.
Education
Kay Francis attended Catholic schools, including Miss Fuller’s School for Young Ladies in Ossining, New York. Though she never pursued higher education, her eloquence and poise suggested a cultured upbringing. She often credited her mother’s theatrical background and exposure to stage life for her refined demeanor and love of performance.
His Father
Kay Francis’ father, Joseph Sprague Gibbs, was a businessman who was little involved in her upbringing. Her parents divorced when Kay was young, and she was primarily raised by her mother, Katherine Clinton. Her father’s absence is said to have influenced her fiercely independent personality.
His Mother
Kay’s mother, Katherine Clinton, was a stage actress who significantly influenced her life. Watching her mother perform inspired Kay to pursue a career in acting. Katherine’s career also exposed Kay to the challenges and rewards of a life in the arts, planting the seeds for her future success in Hollywood.
Children
Kay Francis never had children. While she was married multiple times, she often expressed that her career was her primary focus. In her writings, she reflected on her decision not to have children, citing her tumultuous upbringing and relentless schedule as contributing factors.
Who Is Kay Francis?
Kay Francis was a trailblazing actress who ruled Hollywood during the early sound era of cinema. Known for her roles in romantic dramas, comedies, and melodramas, she was a fashion icon and a bankable star. Between 1930 and 1936, she starred in over 30 films, including hits like One Way Passage (1932), Trouble in Paradise (1932), and I Found Stella Parish (1935).
Nicknamed “The Clothes Horse” of Hollywood, Kay was admired for her style and wardrobe, both on-screen and off. Her ability to portray complex, emotionally driven characters made her a favorite among audiences. Despite facing challenges like being labeled “box-office poison” in the late 1930s, she remained resilient, transitioning to supporting roles and stage work later in her career.
Movies
Kay Francis appeared in over 60 films during her career. Here are some of her most notable works:
| Year | Movie Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1932 | Trouble in Paradise | Mariette Colet |
| 1932 | One Way Passage | Joan Ames |
| 1935 | I Found Stella Parish | Stella Parish |
| 1937 | Confession | Vera Kowalska |
| 1940 | It’s a Date | Georgia Drake |
| 1942 | Always in My Heart | Marjorie Scott |
Kay was mainly celebrated for her performances in romantic dramas, where she often played tragic heroines. Her films showcased her versatility and emotional depth, cementing her status as a leading actress of the era.
Current Life (At the Time of Death)
Kay Francis retired from acting in the mid-1940s, transitioning to stage performances after her film career declined. She spent her later years living a quieter life, focusing on her philanthropic work, particularly with the American Red Cross during World War II.
Kay passed away on August 26, 1968, in New York City at 63, leaving a legacy of elegance, talent, and resilience. She was cremated, and her ashes were scattered in the Atlantic Ocean, as per her wishes.
Net Worth
| Time Period | Net Worth |
|---|---|
| At Peak (1930s) | Approx. $250,000 annually |
| At Death (1968) | $1.5 million |
Kay Francis was one of the highest-paid actresses of her time, earning an annual salary of $250,000 during the 1930s—an enormous sum during the Great Depression. While her wealth dwindled in her later years due to changing fortunes, she remained financially comfortable.
Conclusion
Kay Francis was a Hollywood legend whose height, beauty, and talent made her one of the most admired actresses of her time. Standing tall at 5’9″, she exuded grace and sophistication that complemented her memorable performances. Though her career faced ups and downs, her legacy remains intact as one of the finest actresses of Hollywood’s golden age.
Her life, marked by resilience, elegance, and an unyielding passion for her craft, continues to inspire. Kay Francis remains a timeless icon, from her impressive filmography to her unique persona. Whether you’re discovering her for the first time or revisiting her work, Kay Francis’ contribution to cinema is worth celebrating.