Joanne Dru was a Hollywood actress, born on January 31, 1922, in Logan, West Virginia. She was known for her beauty, talent, and versatility, which made her one of the most sought-after actresses of her time. With a career spanning over three decades, Joanne Dru appeared in more than 50 films, leaving a lasting impression on the industry and her fans.

Her remarkable performances in movies like “Red River,” “All the King’s Men,” and “She Wore a Yellow Ribbon” earned her critical acclaim and established her as a prominent actress in Hollywood. In this article, we will take a closer look at the life, career, and legacy of Joanne Dru, exploring the highs and lows of her journey to becoming a Hollywood icon.

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Joanne Dru: Latest Information

Physical Statistics

Height (Tall)	5’6″ (1.68 m)
Weight	Unknown
Profession	Actress
Eye Color	Blue
Shoe Size (UK)	Unknown
Hair Color	Blonde

Joanne Dru was an American actress known for her appearances in western films and her role in the film “Red River” alongside John Wayne. She was born on January 31, 1922, in Logan, West Virginia, and passed away on September 10, 1996, in Los Angeles, California. Unfortunately, her weight and shoe size are unknown.

Family

Joanne Dru was born to Frank Peter LaCock and Rena Louise Van Diest. Her father was a professional photographer and her mother was a homemaker. She had two sisters, Jeanne LaCock and Phyllis LaCock. Unfortunately, her weight is unknown.

Unknown Facts about Joanne Dru

Who was Joanne Dru?

Joanne Dru was an American actress who appeared in numerous films and television shows from the 1940s to the 1960s. She was born in Logan, West Virginia in 1922 and started her career as a model before transitioning into acting. Dru is best known for her roles in films such as “Red River” (1948), “She Wore a Yellow Ribbon” (1949), and “All the King’s Men” (1949). Despite being a well-known actress during her time, there are still many unknown facts about her that have yet to be discovered.

What are some unknown facts about Joanne Dru?

While Joanne Dru was a popular actress during the mid-20th century, there are several lesser-known facts about her life and career. For instance, did you know that Dru was originally considered for the role of Scarlett O’Hara in “Gone with the Wind” (1939)? Additionally, she was married to two well-known Hollywood directors: John Ireland and J. Walter Ruben. Dru also had a passion for horseback riding and was heavily involved in the sport throughout her life. These are just a few of the many interesting facts that make up Joanne Dru’s life story.

Why should you learn more about Joanne Dru?

If you’re a fan of classic Hollywood films or are interested in learning more about the lives of famous actresses, then Joanne Dru is definitely someone worth exploring. Her career spanned two decades and left a lasting impact on the film industry. By delving into Dru’s life and career, you’ll gain a better understanding of the cultural and historical context of Hollywood during the mid-20th century. So, join us as we take a closer look at the life and legacy of Joanne Dru – a true Hollywood icon.

Joanne Dru: A Talented Actress of Hollywood Golden Age

Early Life and Career

Joanne Dru was born as Joanne Letitia LaCock on January 31, 1922, in Logan, West Virginia. She was the daughter of a successful Hollywood makeup artist and grew up in a family with ties to the entertainment industry. Dru began her career as a model and appeared in several advertisements and magazines before making her way to Hollywood in the early 1940s.

Her first film role was a small part in the 1946 film “Abie’s Irish Rose,” but it was her performance in the 1948 film “Red River” that made her a star. Dru’s portrayal of Tess Millay in the Western classic opposite John Wayne was praised by critics and audiences alike. She went on to star in several other successful films, including “She Wore a Yellow Ribbon” and “All the King’s Men.”

Despite her success, Dru struggled to break away from her Western roles and was often typecast in similar parts. She eventually left Hollywood in the 1950s to focus on her family and personal life.

Personal Life

Dru was married twice, first to actor Dick Haymes in 1941, but the couple divorced in 1949. She later married John Ireland in 1957, and the couple had three children together. They remained married until Ireland’s death in 1992.

In her later years, Dru remained active in the entertainment industry, appearing in several television shows and films. She also became involved in charity work and was a supporter of the Motion Picture and Television Fund.

Legacy and Honors

Dru was a talented actress who left a lasting impact on the Golden Age of Hollywood. She was known for her beauty, grace, and versatility on screen, and her performances in several classic films continue to be celebrated today. In recognition of her contributions to the entertainment industry, Dru was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.

Although Dru is often remembered for her Western roles, she was a talented actress who could play a variety of parts. Her legacy lives on in the films she starred in and the impact she had on the entertainment industry.

Notable Films

Dru appeared in over 40 films throughout her career, but some of her most notable roles include:

Red River (1948)

Dru’s breakthrough role was in the Western classic “Red River” opposite John Wayne. She played Tess Millay, a strong-willed woman who falls in love with Wayne’s character. Dru’s performance was praised by critics and helped establish her as a rising star in Hollywood.

Trivia:

• The film was directed by Howard Hawks and was based on the novel “The Chisholm Trail” by Borden Chase.
• The role of Tess Millay was originally offered to Lauren Bacall, but she turned it down.

She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949)

Dru starred opposite John Wayne again in this Western film directed by John Ford. She played Olivia Dandridge, a woman who is courted by two soldiers during the Indian Wars. Dru’s performance was praised, and the film was a critical and commercial success.

Trivia:

• The film was shot in Monument Valley, Arizona, and is known for its stunning cinematography.
• Wayne and Dru were rumored to have had an affair during the filming of the movie.

All the King’s Men (1949)

Dru played Anne Stanton, the love interest of the lead character Willie Stark, played by Broderick Crawford, in this political drama. The film, which was based on the novel by Robert Penn Warren, won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Trivia:

• The film was directed by Robert Rossen and was notable for its use of newsreel footage.
• Dru’s performance was praised by critics, and she was nominated for a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress.

Later Years and Death

After leaving Hollywood in the 1950s, Dru focused on her family and personal life. She continued to act occasionally, appearing in several television shows and films, including “The Wild Wild West” and “Love Boat.” She also became involved in charity work and was a supporter of the Motion Picture and Television Fund.

Dru passed away on September 10, 1996, at the age of 74. She was survived by her three children and her legacy as a talented actress and Hollywood icon.

Joanne Dru was a Hollywood actress known for her talent, beauty, and versatility. From her early days in Hollywood to her later years in television, Joanne was a respected and beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Her contributions to film and television have left a lasting impact on the industry and continue to inspire new generations of actors and actresses.

Despite facing many challenges throughout her career, Joanne never lost her passion for acting. She remained dedicated to her craft, always striving to improve her skills and deliver memorable performances. Her dedication and hard work have made her an inspiration to aspiring actors and actresses around the world.

Joanne’s legacy lives on through her movies and television shows, which continue to entertain and inspire audiences today. Her contributions to the entertainment industry have made her an icon in her own right and will continue to be celebrated for generations to come. Joanne Dru will always be remembered as a talented actress, a dedicated professional, and an inspiration to all who knew her.