5 Actresses Who Became Famous in Christmas Films
Leading Ladies Who Found Success in Christmas Movies
When we think of actresses whose careers skyrocketed after starring in beloved Christmas movies, names like Donna Reed and Rosemary Clooney immediately come to mind.
But they aren’t the only ones. Let’s take a look back at these leading ladies and more who owe their big breaks in Hollywood to their roles in holiday classics.
Donna Reed: From “It’s A Wonderful Life” to Oscar Success
Donna Reed, best known for her iconic role as Mary Hatch in Frank Capra’s 1946 masterpiece “It’s A Wonderful Life,” started her career with a part in “The Getaway” in 1941. This breakthrough role at the age of 25 changed everything for her, leading to numerous supporting roles and eventually an Oscar win for her performance in “From Here to Eternity” in 1953. Reed’s success continued on the small screen with her popular TV show “The Donna Reed Show.”
“Remember, George: no man is a failure who has friends.”
It’s a Wonderful Life premiered at the Globe Theatre in New York 77 years ago today, on December 20, 1946 🙂 #otd https://t.co/XOjXEx3Q1x pic.twitter.com/MTyp4rXZsa— Classic Movie Hub (@ClassicMovieHub) December 20, 2023
Natalie Wood: Believing in the Magic of Santa Claus
Natalie Wood captured our hearts as Susan Walker in the 1947 film “Miracle on 34th Street.” At just eight years old, Wood had already appeared in two other movies before landing this iconic role. Following the holiday classic, she became a box office success, starring in films like “The Searchers” and ”West Side Story.” Wood also found success on the small screen, appearing in made-for-TV movies and miniseries.
Rosemary Clooney: From Singing Sensation to Silver Screen Star
Rosemary Clooney, George Clooney’s aunt, began her career in the music industry after winning a singing competition in Cincinnati. At 26 years old, she took on the role of Betty Haynes in “White Christmas,” alongside Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye. Clooney’s sultry voice and captivating performance in the holiday classic made her a star on the big screen.
Zooey Deschanel: From “Elf” to A Rising Career
Before Zooey Deschanel charmed audiences as Jovie in the 2003 holiday film ”Elf,” she was just starting out in the entertainment world. While she had appeared in two other movies, it was her role opposite Will Ferrell that launched her career. Deschanel has since appeared in numerous films and found success on both the big and small screen.
Candace Cameron Bure: The Queen of Christmas
Candace Cameron Bure, known for her role in ”Full House,” found her true success in Christmas movies on the Hallmark Channel. She appeared in a total of 10 Hallmark Christmas movies, earning her the title of “Queen of Christmas.” Bure’s success with the network propelled her career, leading her to develop, produce, and star in faith-based stories for the Great American Family Network.
Related: The Eight Best Classic Christmas Movies To Watch And Why
How did Doris Roberts’ appearance in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” showcase her versatility as an actress and add to her list of iconic performances
E Magic of “Miracle on 34th Street”
At the age of 8, Natalie Wood stole the show as Susan Walker in the 1947 holiday classic “Miracle on 34th Street.” This heartwarming film about the power of believing in Santa Claus captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, and Natalie Wood’s performance earned her critical acclaim. Although she faced challenges transitioning from child star to adult actress, Wood went on to have a successful career in both film and television, with notable roles in movies such as ”Rebel Without a Cause” and “West Side Story.” Before Rosemary Clooney became known as a talented singer and actress, she starred alongside Bing Crosby in the 1954 musical film “White Christmas.” Clooney’s portrayal of Betty Haynes, a singer and nightclub performer, showcased her vocal abilities and magnetic stage presence. This role propelled her career and led to further success in both music and film. Clooney became a well-respected jazz and pop singer, with hits like “Come On-a My House” and “Mambo Italiano.” Although she is primarily known for her role as Marie Barone in the television sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond,” Doris Roberts made a memorable appearance in the 1989 comedy “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” As Frances Smith, the quirky and loving grandmother, Roberts brought laughter and warmth to the chaotic Griswold family Christmas. While she continued her successful TV career, this role showcased her versatility as an actress and added to her list of iconic performances. Candace Cameron Bure, known for her role as D.J. Tanner in the sitcom “Full House,” has become a staple in Hallmark Christmas movies. Bure has starred in various heartwarming holiday films, including “Christmas Under Wraps” and “A Christmas Detour.” Her charismatic and relatable performances have made her a fan favorite in the genre and solidified her status as a leading lady in the world of Christmas movies. These leading ladies and many more have left their mark on the holiday movie genre, bringing joy and entertainment to audiences year after year. Their talent and the success of their Christmas movies have propelled their careers and solidified their status as beloved icons in Hollywood.Rosemary Clooney: Captivating Audiences in “White Christmas”
Doris Roberts: Spreading Holiday Cheer in ”National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”
Candace Cameron Bure: Embracing the Christmas Spirit in Hallmark Movies
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