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Who was Joan Davis?
Joan Davis was an American comedic actress who had a successful career in vaudeville, film, radio, and television. She was best known for her role as the scatterbrained wife of a mild-mannered community judge (played by Jim Backus) on the sitcom I Married Joan. She also co-starred with Bud Abbott and Lou Costello in the horror comedy Hold That Ghost, and with Eddie Cantor in Show Business and If You Knew Susie. She was one of the few female physical clowns of her time, and had a reputation for flawless physical comedy.
How did Joan Davis die?
Joan Davis died of a sudden heart attack on May 23, 1961, at the age of 48. She was staying at a hotel in Palm Springs, California, where she had gone to relax after finishing the filming of her last movie, Pepe. She was found unconscious in her room by a maid, and was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. The cause of death was listed as myocardial infarction, or a blockage of blood flow to the heart. According to Wikipedia, her death was attributed to her heavy smoking habit, which she had started at the age of 13.
What happened to Joan Davis’ family?
Joan Davis’ death was not the only tragedy that befell her family. Two years later, on October 24, 1963, a fire broke out at her daughter’s home in Palm Springs, where her mother and two grandsons were also staying. The fire was caused by a faulty electric blanket, and claimed the lives of all four occupants. Joan Davis’ daughter, Beverly Wills, was also an actress, who had appeared with her mother on I Married Joan and in several movies. She was 30 years old, and left behind a husband and a third son, who survived the fire. Joan Davis’ mother, Nina Mae Davis, was 74 years old, and had been a vaudeville performer in her youth. Joan Davis’ grandsons, Timothy and Peter Wills, were 9 and 7 years old, respectively.
How is Joan Davis remembered?
Joan Davis is remembered as one of the most talented and versatile comedians of her era, who brought laughter and joy to millions of fans. She was awarded two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, one for motion pictures and one for radio. She was also inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 2009. Her shows and movies are still enjoyed by many people today, who appreciate her unique style and humor. She was a pioneer for women in comedy, and an inspiration for many future performers. Joan Davis’ cause of death may have been tragic, but her legacy lives on.
