Dorothy Malone is a name that continues to evoke admiration and nostalgia in film and television enthusiasts worldwide. An actress of immense versatility and enduring appeal, Malone achieved fame during the Golden Age of Hollywood and maintained her star power well into the age of television. Known for her captivating beauty and dramatic range, Dorothy Malone’s most notable achievements include her Academy Award-winning role in Written on the Wind (1956) and her starring role in the groundbreaking TV series Peyton Place (1964–1968). However, her journey to success was not without challenges, and her life story is as compelling as the characters she portrayed.
Born on January 30, 1924, in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in Dallas, Texas, Dorothy Malone’s early aspirations were far from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. She initially pursued law before her path veered toward acting—a decision that would lead to a remarkable career spanning five decades. From her humble beginnings as a contract player to becoming one of the most celebrated actresses of her time, Dorothy Malone’s legacy reflects her resilience, adaptability, and undeniable talent.
Bio/wiki Table
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Dorothy Eloise Maloney |
| Stage Name | Dorothy Malone |
| Birth Date | January 30, 1924 |
| Birthplace | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Raised In | Dallas, Texas, USA |
| Death Date | January 19, 2018 |
| Place of Death | Dallas, Texas, USA |
| Age at Death | 93 years |
| Profession | Actress |
| Active Years | 1943–1992 |
| Famous For | Written on the Wind, Peyton Place |
| Academy Award | Best Supporting Actress for Written on the Wind (1956) |
| Television Success | Played Constance MacKenzie on Peyton Place (1964–1968) |
| Hair Color | Originally brunette, later dyed platinum blonde |
| Height | 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) |
| Spouses | Jacques Bergerac (1959–1964), Robert Tomarkin (1969, annulled), Charles Huston Bell (1971–1973) |
| Children | Two daughters, Mimi and Diane |
| Net Worth | Estimated to be substantial during her career, but exact figures are unavailable |
| Key Films | Written on the Wind (1956), The Tarnished Angels (1957), Man of a Thousand Faces (1957) |
| Last Film Appearance | Basic Instinct (1992) |
| Hobbies | Reading, interior decorating, attending church |
| Religion | Devout Catholic |
| Notable Health Issue | Survived a pulmonary embolism in 1964 |
| Legacy | One of Hollywood’s most versatile and glamorous actresses, with a lasting impact on TV dramas |
Early Life and Influences
Dorothy Eloise Maloney was born into a Catholic family, the youngest of five siblings. Her father, Robert Ignatius Maloney, worked as an accountant, while her mother, Esther Emma Smith, managed the household. The Malone family moved to Dallas, Texas, during Dorothy’s childhood, where she would spend her formative years.
Growing up, Dorothy was known for her outgoing personality and radiant smile. She excelled academically and participated in extracurricular activities, particularly drama and public speaking. Dorothy’s talent for performing became evident during her time at Ursuline Academy, an all-girls Catholic school, and later at Highland Park High School.
Although Dorothy initially envisioned a career in law and began studying at Southern Methodist University, fate had other plans. A talent scout from RKO Pictures noticed her while she was performing in a local play, and soon, Dorothy found herself on a path to Hollywood. Despite initial hesitations, she embraced the opportunity, viewing it as a chance to explore new possibilities and challenge herself.
Early Career: The Path to Stardom
Dorothy Malone’s Hollywood journey began in the early 1940s when she signed with RKO Pictures. Her early roles were small and often uncredited, but they allowed her to gain experience and establish herself in the competitive industry. Some of her earliest appearances included films such as The Falcon and the Co-eds (1943) and Higher and Higher (1943). Though these roles were minor, Malone’s screen presence hinted at her potential.
In 1946, Dorothy gained attention for her brief but memorable role in The Big Sleep. Playing a flirtatious bookstore clerk opposite Humphrey Bogart, Malone left an indelible impression despite her limited screen time. This performance showcased her ability to captivate audiences, even in supporting roles.
For much of the 1940s and early 1950s, Dorothy was typecast in wholesome, girl-next-door roles, often playing nurses, secretaries, or love interests. While these roles provided steady work, Malone yearned for more substantial and challenging parts.
Transformation and Breakthrough
In the mid-1950s, Dorothy Malone made a bold decision to reinvent herself. Tired of being typecast, she dyed her brunette hair platinum blonde, a move that transformed her image and redefined her career. The change was not merely cosmetic—it signalled her desire to take on more glamorous and complex roles.
Her breakthrough came in 1956 with Written on the Wind, a melodrama directed by Douglas Sirk. Malone played Marylee Hadley, a reckless and troubled heiress entangled in a web of family dysfunction and unrequited love. The role was a departure from her earlier, more subdued characters, and it allowed her to explore the darker, more passionate aspects of human nature.
Malone’s performance in Written on the Wind was electrifying, earning her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Critics praised her portrayal as one of the highlights of the film, and her iconic dance scene in front of a jukebox remains one of the most memorable moments in 1950s cinema. The success of Written on the Wind catapulted Malone to stardom and established her as a versatile actress capable of handling both dramatic and glamorous roles.
Golden Years in Film
Following her Oscar win, Dorothy Malone enjoyed a series of high-profile roles in Hollywood. She reunited with Douglas Sirk and Rock Hudson in The Tarnished Angels (1957), delivering another powerful performance as a journalist covering the lives of daredevil pilots. Her ability to convey vulnerability and strength made her a sought-after actress during this period.
Other notable films from this era include:
- Man of a Thousand Faces (1957): A biographical drama about silent film star Lon Chaney, in which Malone starred opposite James Cagney.
- Too Much, Too Soon (1958): A biographical film where Malone played Diana Barrymore, capturing the actress’s struggles with addiction and fame.
- Beach Party (1963): Although primarily a lighthearted comedy, Malone showcased her comedic timing in this popular film.
Television Success: Peyton Place
In the 1960s, as Hollywood shifted away from the studio system, Malone transitioned to television. Her most iconic television role was Constance MacKenzie on Peyton Place, a primetime soap opera based on the novel by Grace Metalious. Premiering in 1964, the show became a cultural phenomenon, captivating millions of viewers with its stories of love, scandal, and intrigue in a small New England town.
Malone’s portrayal of Constance, a single mother navigating complex relationships and societal expectations, resonated with audiences and earned her widespread acclaim. Throughout nearly 450 episodes, Malone became one of the most recognizable faces on television. Her work on Peyton Place paved the way for serialized dramas that dominate television today.
Personal Life and Challenges
Dorothy Malone’s personal life was filled with highs and lows, much like the characters she portrayed. She was married three times, with each relationship receiving significant media attention.
- Jacques Bergerac (1959–1964): Dorothy’s marriage to French actor Jacques Bergerac was her most publicized. The couple had two daughters, Mimi and Diane, before divorcing.
- Robert Tomarkin (1969): Dorothy married stockbroker Robert Tomarkin, but their union was annulled within the same year.
- Charles Huston Bell (1971–1973): Her third marriage, to businessman Charles Huston Bell, ended in divorce as well.
In addition to her marital struggles, Malone faced health issues, including a near-fatal pulmonary embolism in 1964, which required surgery. Despite these challenges, she remained resilient and focused on her family and career.
Later Years and Final Roles
After Peyton Place, Malone continued to work sporadically in film and television. She appeared in guest roles on shows like The Love Boat and Fantasy Island and had a small but memorable part in the political thriller Winter Kills (1979).
In 1992, Malone made her final film appearance in Basic Instinct, playing Hazel Dobkins, a convicted murderer. Although her role was brief, it served as a fitting bookend to her long and illustrious career.
Legacy and Influence
Dorothy Malone’s contributions to the entertainment industry are profound. She demonstrated the importance of reinvention, proving that actresses could defy typecasting and redefine their careers. Her performances in films like Written on the Wind and her work on Peyton Place continue to inspire actors and filmmakers alike.
Malone’s ability to balance glamour with emotional depth set her apart from her contemporaries. Her journey from supporting roles to being an Academy Award winner exemplifies the resilience and determination required to succeed in Hollywood.
See Also: Kiyomi Leslie
FAQ’s
1. Who was Dorothy Malone?
Dorothy Malone was an American actress known for her roles in both film and television. She won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in Written on the Wind (1956) and starred in the hit TV series Peyton Place (1964–1968).
2. When and where was Dorothy Malone born?
Dorothy Malone was born on January 30, 1924, in Chicago, Illinois, USA. She was raised in Dallas, Texas.
3. What was Dorothy Malone’s most famous role?
Her most famous roles include her Oscar-winning performance as Marylee Hadley in Written on the Wind (1956) and her role as Constance MacKenzie on the TV series Peyton Place (1964–1968).
4. Did Dorothy Malone win any awards?
Yes, Dorothy Malone won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1956 for her role in Written on the Wind. She also received widespread acclaim for her television work.
5. What other notable movies did Dorothy Malone star in?
Some of Dorothy Malone’s notable films include:
- The Big Sleep (1946)
- The Tarnished Angels (1957)
- Man of a Thousand Faces (1957)
- Too Much, Too Soon (1958)
- Basic Instinct (1992)
Conclusion
Dorothy Malone’s life and career are a testament to her talent, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to her craft. From her early days as a contract player to her Oscar-winning performance and groundbreaking work on television, Malone left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Her story is one of triumph over adversity, a reminder that it’s possible to achieve greatness with perseverance and self-belief. Dorothy Malone will always be remembered as one of Hollywood’s most captivating stars—a true icon whose legacy continues to shine.
