Carolyn Jones was a talented and versatile actress who starred in many films and television shows in the 1950s and 1960s. She is best known for her role as Morticia Addams, the elegant and mysterious matriarch of the macabre Addams Family. Jones captivated audiences with her dark humor, exotic beauty, and graceful charm. However, behind the scenes, she was struggling with a serious illness that eventually claimed her life. Here is a brief overview of Carolyn Jones’ cause of death and how she fought bravely against cancer.
Early Life and Career
Carolyn Jones was born on April 28, 1930, in Amarillo, Texas. She had a difficult childhood, as her father abandoned the family when she was four years old and she suffered from severe asthma that limited her activities. She developed a passion for acting and reading Hollywood fan magazines, and dreamed of becoming a star. She enrolled at the Pasadena Playhouse in California at age 17, with her grandfather paying her tuition.
Jones began her film career in the early 1950s, and soon caught the attention of critics and audiences with her versatile performances. She appeared in films such as House of Wax (1953), Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956), and The Man Who Knew Too Much (1956). She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Bachelor Party (1957) and a Golden Globe Award as one of the most promising new actresses of 1959.
The Addams Family and Beyond
In 1964, Jones landed the role that would make her a household name: Morticia Addams in the television series The Addams Family. Jones wore a long black wig, tight black dress, and heavy makeup to transform into the Gothic goddess who loved her eccentric husband Gomez (John Astin) and their creepy children Wednesday (Lisa Loring) and Pugsley (Ken Weatherwax). The show was a hit with viewers who enjoyed the quirky humor and satire of the unconventional family.
The Addams Family ran for two seasons, from 1964 to 1966, and spawned several spin-offs, movies, cartoons, and musicals over the years. Jones reprised her role as Morticia in several TV specials and movies, such as Halloween with the New Addams Family (1977) and The Addams Family Fun-House (1973). She also continued to work in other TV shows and films, such as Batman (1966), Wonder Woman (1976), Roots (1977), and The Dream Merchants (1980).
Cancer Diagnosis and Death
In 1977, Jones was diagnosed with colon cancer. She underwent surgery to remove part of her colon and received chemotherapy treatments. She also became an advocate for cancer awareness and prevention, appearing in public service announcements and speaking at events. She married her fourth husband, actor Peter Bailey-Britton, in 1982.
However, her cancer returned in 1982 and spread to other organs. She fell into a coma at her home in West Hollywood, California, where she died on August 3, 1983. She was 53 years old. She was cremated and her ashes were scattered at sea.
Carolyn Jones left behind a legacy of memorable performances and a loyal fan base that still admires her work. She was a courageous woman who faced her illness with dignity and grace. She will always be remembered as the original Morticia Addams, who brought joy and laughter to millions of people.
