Jane Powell made her claim to fame as a Hollywood actress in films like Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and Royal Wedding, but in real life, she was a bride five times. Aside from her latest marriage with husband Dickie Moore, the beloved late star had four ex-spouses, including Geary Steffen, Patrick Nerney and more.
Sadly, Jane departed from this world at the age of 92 on September 16. This news was confirmed by her longtime friend Susan Granger to the Associated Press. Jane's passing occurred at her home in Wilton, Connecticut, due to natural causes.
In a heartfelt statement, Susan described Jane as “the most wonderful friend.” She emphasized Jane's candid nature, stating, “You never asked Jane a question you didn’t want an absolutely honest answer to.” This reflects the genuine spirit that Jane brought to her relationships, both personal and professional.
The actress was a fixture in Hollywood, making her debut in 1944 with Song of the Open Road. She quickly rose to fame, landing roles in popular films such as Three Daring Daughters, Luxury Liner, and Two Weeks With Love. However, one of her most iconic roles was in the 1951 film Royal Wedding, where she starred alongside the legendary Fred Astaire.
Interestingly, Jane was not the first choice for the lead in Royal Wedding. Initially, June Allyson was set to star with Fred Astaire, but she had to withdraw due to her pregnancy. Judy Garland was then cast as her replacement, but she too had to back out for personal reasons. Jane humorously recalled, “They had to give it to me. Everybody else is pregnant.” Despite this unconventional casting, Jane proved to be a remarkable success.
As she embraced her Hollywood fame, Jane also faced the challenges of marriage and motherhood. She married her first husband, Geary Steffen, in 1949, and together they welcomed two children: Gearhardt Anthony Steffen III and Suzanne Ilene Steffen. Their marriage ended in 1953, leading Jane to marry her second husband, Patrick Nerney, in 1954.
Like her first marriage, Jane's second union was short-lived, concluding in 1963. However, during this time, the couple welcomed their daughter, Lindsey Averill Nerney, who would become Jane's youngest child. Jane continued to explore love with two more partners—James Fitzgerald in 1965 and David Parlour in 1978—before finally finding lasting love with her fifth husband, Dickie Moore. They married in 1988 and shared nearly two decades of happiness before Dickie's passing in September 2015.
For a complete timeline of Jane’s love life, plus to learn about her five marriages, keep scrolling.
Table of Contents
- Biography of Jane Powell
- Early Life and Career
- Jane Powell's Marriages
- Notable Films and Achievements
- The Legacy of Jane Powell
Biography of Jane Powell
Full Name | Jane Powell |
---|---|
Birth Date | April 1, 1929 |
Death Date | September 16, 2021 |
Birthplace | Portland, Oregon, USA |
Occupation | Actress, Singer, Dancer |
Notable Works | Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Royal Wedding |
Early Life and Career
Jane Powell, born in Portland, Oregon, was a talented individual from a young age. She demonstrated her singing ability in local performances before making her way to Hollywood. Her career took off in the 1940s, where she quickly became a beloved actress, known for her engaging performances and captivating voice.
Her breakthrough role came in 1944 with the film Song of the Open Road, which showcased her talent and set the stage for her future success. Jane continued to shine in the entertainment industry, earning recognition for her versatility and charm.
Jane Powell's Marriages
Throughout her life, Jane experienced both love and heartbreak. She was married five times, reflecting her quest for companionship and happiness. Each marriage shaped her life in unique ways, contributing to her personal narrative.
Jane's first marriage to Geary Steffen in 1949 marked the beginning of her journey as a wife and mother. Despite their split in 1953, Jane's role as a mother remained a significant part of her identity. Her subsequent marriages offered lessons and experiences that enriched her understanding of love.
Notable Films and Achievements
Jane Powell's filmography is impressive, with several iconic performances that have left a lasting impression on audiences. Her role in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is particularly memorable, solidifying her status as a classic Hollywood star.
In addition to her film work, Jane made appearances on television shows, including Fantasy Island and Murder, She Wrote, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her contributions to the entertainment industry earned her a place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
The Legacy of Jane Powell
Jane Powell's legacy lives on through her films and the memories she created with audiences. She is remembered not only for her talent but also for her authenticity and kindness.
Her journey through love, loss, and success serves as an inspiration to many. Jane's story reminds us that life is a series of experiences that shape who we are, and her impact will continue to resonate for generations to come.
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