Jessica Tandy

Born:June 7, 1909

Place of Birth:London, England

Died:September 11, 1994

Known For:Acting

Biography

Jessica Tandy, born Jessie Alice Tandy, was a remarkable English-American actress who graced both the stage and screen with her immense talent and unforgettable performances. Her career began at a young age when she made her debut on the London stage in 1926, showcasing her acting prowess in various roles opposite renowned actors like Laurence Olivier and John Gielgud.

After moving to New York and marrying Canadian actor Hume Cronyn, Tandy's career reached new heights. The duo became a powerhouse couple on stage and screen, captivating audiences with their chemistry and compelling performances. Tandy's portrayal of Blanche Dubois in the original Broadway production of A Streetcar Named Desire earned her a Tony Award, solidifying her status as a distinguished actress.

In the 1980s, Tandy experienced a career resurgence, captivating audiences with her roles in both theater and film. Her collaboration with Cronyn in productions like Foxfire showcased her versatility and earned her critical acclaim, including Tony and Emmy Awards for her exceptional portrayal of Annie Nations. Tandy's on-screen presence in movies like Cocoon further solidified her reputation as a versatile and talented actress.

One of Tandy's most iconic roles came in 1989 when she portrayed the lovable Daisy Werthan in Driving Miss Daisy, a performance that earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, making her the oldest actress to receive the prestigious accolade. Her captivating portrayal in the film also garnered her a BAFTA and a Golden Globe, further highlighting her exceptional talent and versatility as an actress.

Despite facing health challenges, including a diagnosis of ovarian cancer in 1990, Tandy continued to work tirelessly until shortly before her passing in 1994. Her dedication to her craft, unwavering passion for acting, and remarkable talent left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment, solidifying her legacy as one of the most revered actresses of her time. Jessica Tandy's contributions to both stage and screen continue to inspire and captivate audiences, ensuring that her legacy lives on for generations to come.

Images

Filmography

Acting

The Birds

Lydia Brenner

1963

Thousands of birds flock into a seaside town and terrorize the residents in a series of deadly attacks.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Ninny Threadgoode

1991

Amidst her own personality crisis, southern housewife Evelyn Couch meets Ninny, an outgoing old woman who tells her the story of Idgie Threadgoode and Ruth Jamison, two young women who experienced hardships and love in Whistle Stop, Alabama in the 1920s.

Cocoon

Alma Finley

1985

When a group of trespassing seniors swim in a pool containing alien cocoons, they find themselves energized with youthful vigor.

Driving Miss Daisy

Daisy Werthan

1989

The story of an old Jewish widow named Daisy Werthan and her relationship with her black chauffeur, Hoke. From an initial mere work relationship grew in 25 years a strong friendship between the two very different characters, in a time when those types of relationships were shunned.

*batteries not included

Faye Riley

1987

In a soon to be demolished block of apartments, the residents resist the criminal methods used to force them to leave so a greedy tycoon can build his new skyscraper. When tiny mechanical aliens land for a recharge, they decide to stay and help out.

Nobody's Fool

Beryl Peoples

1994

A rascally nearing-retirement man juggles a workers' compensation suit while secretly working for his nemesis and flirting with his nemesis' young wife. As his estranged son returns, he faces new family responsibilities, while a banker plots to evict him from his home.

Cocoon: The Return

Alma Finley

1988

The reinvigorated elderly group that left Earth comes back to visit their relatives. Will they all decide to go back to the planet where no one grows old, or will they be tempted to remain on Earth?

The World According to Garp

Mrs. Fields

1982

A struggling young writer finds his life and work dominated by his unfaithful wife and his radical feminist mother, whose best-selling manifesto turns her into a cultural icon.