Dorothy Malone

Dorothy Malone

The Blonde Bombshell

Dorothy Malone was an acclaimed actress known for her versatility and emotional depth. Moving to Dallas, Texas, in her youth, she began her acting career in the 1940s with minor roles before gaining fame in the 1950s.

Her Oscar-winning performance in "Written on the Wind" (1956) marked a career highlight, showcasing her shift from wholesome roles to complex characters. She starred in notable films like "The Big Sleep" (1946) and "The Tarnished Angels" (1957), and was a prominent figure in the TV series "Peyton Place" (1964-1968).

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The Big Sleep - 1946

Dorothy Malone (1924 – 2018)

Biography, Career and Movies

Dorothy Eloise Maloney, known professionally as Dorothy Malone, was born on January 30, 1924, in Chicago, Illinois. She was the youngest of five children. Her family moved to Dallas, Texas, when she was very young, and it was there that she grew up and began her interest in acting.

Education and Early Career: Malone attended Ursuline Convent and Highland Park High School. She later enrolled at Southern Methodist University, where she was discovered by a talent scout from RKO Pictures during a school production. She signed a contract with RKO and moved to Hollywood to pursue her acting career.

Hollywood Career: Malone made her film debut in 1943 in the film "Gildersleeve on Broadway." She played minor roles in several films throughout the 1940s, but her big break came with the 1946 film noir classic "The Big Sleep," where she played a small yet memorable role opposite Humphrey Bogart.

Her career continued to rise in the 1950s, and she transitioned from wholesome girl-next-door roles to more sultry and dramatic roles. In 1956, Malone won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Marylee Hadley in Douglas Sirk's melodrama "Written on the Wind." This role showcased her ability to play complex and emotionally charged characters.

She starred in other notable films such as "Man of a Thousand Faces" (1957), "The Tarnished Angels" (1957), and "Warlock" (1959). Malone also found success on television, most notably starring as Constance MacKenzie in the popular ABC primetime soap opera "Peyton Place" from 1964 to 1968.

Personal Life: Dorothy Malone's personal life was marked by several marriages and divorces. She married French actor Jacques Bergerac in 1959, and they had two daughters, Mimi and Diane, before divorcing in 1964. She had a brief marriage to stockbroker Robert Tomarkin in 1969, which was annulled. Her third marriage was to businessman Charles Huston Bell in 1971, ending in divorce in 1973.

Later Years and Death: After her stint on "Peyton Place," Malone's career slowed down, although she continued to work sporadically in film and television. Her later years were spent away from the public eye, living in Dallas, Texas. Dorothy Malone passed away on January 19, 2018, just 11 days before her 94th birthday. She was buried in Calvary Hill Cemetery in Dallas.

Legacy: Dorothy Malone is remembered as a versatile and talented actress who made significant contributions to both film and television. Her performance in "Written on the Wind" remains a standout in cinema history, and her work on "Peyton Place" helped pave the way for future television dramas. Her beauty, talent, and dedication to her craft have left an enduring legacy in the entertainment industry.

Dorothy Malone wins Oscar in 1957:

Commanding Style of Acting:

Transition from Innocence to Complexity:

Early in her career, Malone often portrayed innocent, wholesome characters. Her roles in the 1940s films, such as the demure bookstore clerk in "The Big Sleep," showcased a natural, understated charm. However, as she matured as an actress, she transitioned to more complex and sultry roles. This shift was epitomized by her Academy Award-winning performance in "Written on the Wind" (1956), where she played the troubled and emotionally volatile Marylee Hadley.

Emotional Intensity:

Malone had a remarkable ability to convey deep emotional intensity. Her performances often featured a simmering undercurrent of passion, whether it was repressed desire, anger, or desperation. In "Written on the Wind," she portrayed a character consumed by unrequited love and jealousy with raw, powerful energy. This ability to tap into deep emotions made her performances memorable and impactful.

Physical Expressiveness:

Malone was adept at using her physicality to enhance her performances. Her expressive eyes and body language often communicated what words could not. For instance, in "The Tarnished Angels" (1957), her body language conveyed vulnerability and longing, adding layers to her character’s portrayal that dialogue alone could not achieve.

Versatility:

One of Malone’s greatest strengths was her versatility. She seamlessly moved between genres, from film noir and melodrama to westerns and comedies. In the film noir genre, she brought a sense of mystery and allure, while in westerns like "Warlock" (1959), she portrayed strong, resilient women. Her ability to adapt to different types of roles and genres demonstrated her wide-ranging talent.

Commanding Screen Presence:

Despite the varying nature of her roles, Malone always maintained a commanding screen presence. She had a magnetic quality that drew audiences in, whether she was playing a leading lady or a supporting character. Her presence was particularly strong in scenes that required confrontation or high drama, where she could dominate the screen with her intensity and charisma.

Nuanced Portrayals:

Malone excelled at bringing nuance to her characters. She avoided one-dimensional portrayals, instead infusing her roles with complexity and depth. Her characters often had a rich inner life, with motivations and emotions that were subtly hinted at through her performance. This was evident in her role as Constance MacKenzie in the television series "Peyton Place," where she portrayed a mother with a hidden past and a complicated emotional life.

Strong Vocal Delivery:

Malone's vocal delivery was another key component of her acting style. She had a strong, clear voice that could convey a wide range of emotions. Her dialogue delivery was often precise and deliberate, adding to the believability and impact of her characters. Whether delivering sharp, witty lines or heartfelt declarations, her vocal performance was always compelling.

Dedication to Craft:

Throughout her career, Malone demonstrated a dedication to her craft. She continuously sought out challenging roles and was not afraid to take risks with her performances. This dedication was evident in her ability to evolve as an actress, taking on more demanding and diverse roles as her career progressed.

Summary:

Dorothy Malone's acting style was characterized by its emotional intensity, physical expressiveness, and versatility. She had a commanding screen presence and a talent for nuanced portrayals, bringing depth and complexity to her characters. Her ability to transition from innocent roles to more complex and sultry characters showcased her wide-ranging talent and dedication to her craft. Malone's performances remain memorable for their passion, power, and subtlety, making her a standout actress of her time.

Personal Quotes from Dorothy Malone:

On her career and acting:

"I was born in Texas, so when I got on the screen, I was a Texan. It was my big drawback and I was a real flop, but it was also a badge of honor that I wore as long as I was able."

Reflecting on her role in "Written on the Wind":

"It was a great part, and the Oscar changed my career. Overnight, I became a household name."

On the importance of winning an Oscar:

"The Oscar changed everything. It is one of those things that give you a sense of security. You know that you are one of the chosen few, that you have talent."

On her career choices:

"I was always the girl who would say yes, but I learned to say no. I figured out that I’d rather be the best at what I could be rather than try to do everything and not be very good at anything."

On her approach to roles:

"I never turned down a role because I was afraid of it. I've had plenty of parts I could have shied away from, but I never did. You can't be an actress and be afraid."

On her time working in television, especially "Peyton Place":

"Television is like living in your hometown. You get to know everyone and feel comfortable. You also get to know your character inside and out, and that’s a great feeling for an actress."

What Others said about Dorothy Malone:

• Rock Hudson, her co-star in "Written on the Wind":

"Dorothy Malone was a consummate actress and a wonderful colleague. Her dedication to her roles was evident in every performance."

• Robert Stack, her co-star in both "Written on the Wind" and "The Tarnished Angels":

"Dorothy was a brilliant actress who brought depth and passion to her roles. Working with her was always a pleasure because of her professionalism and talent."

• Douglas Sirk, the director of "Written on the Wind":

"Dorothy Malone was a revelation. She had the ability to convey such raw emotion and intensity, which made her performances unforgettable."

• Leonard Maltin, film critic and historian:

"Dorothy Malone's transformation from wholesome girl-next-door to sultry femme fatale was one of the most remarkable career evolutions in Hollywood. She could light up the screen with her presence and deliver performances that were both powerful and nuanced."

• David Thomson, film critic and historian:

"Malone brought a unique combination of beauty, talent, and emotional depth to her roles. She was equally convincing as the innocent ingénue and the complex, troubled woman. Her Oscar-winning performance in 'Written on the Wind' remains one of the highlights of 1950s cinema."

• The New York Times, in their obituary for Dorothy Malone:

"Ms. Malone’s career was a study in transformation. From her early roles as a sweet, wholesome character, she evolved into one of Hollywood’s most memorable dramatic actresses, bringing a depth and intensity to her performances that resonated with audiences."

• The Hollywood Reporter:

"Dorothy Malone’s contribution to film and television cannot be overstated. Her ability to navigate different genres and her commitment to her craft made her a standout actress of her generation. She will be remembered for her compelling performances and her impact on the industry."

• Mimi Bergerac, her daughter:

"My mother was not just an incredible actress but also an amazing mother. She balanced her career and personal life with grace and strength. Her legacy is not just in the films she made but in the lives she touched."

Awards and Recognition:

Academy Awards:

• 1957: Best Supporting Actress for "Written on the Wind" – Won
   

Golden Globe Awards:

• 1965: Best Actress in a Television Series for "Peyton Place" – Nominated
   

Primetime Emmy Awards:

• 1965: Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Dramatic Series for "Peyton Place" - Nominated
• 1966: Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Dramatic Series for "Peyton Place" - Nominated
• 1967: Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Dramatic Series for "Peyton Place" – Nominated
   

Walk of Fame:

• 1960: Motion Picture Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located at 1718 Vine Street – Awarded
   

Other Recognitions:

• Laurel Awards:

1958: Top Female Supporting Performance for "Man of a Thousand Faces" - 2nd place

1958: Top Female Supporting Performance for "Written on the Wind" - 3rd place

Movies featuring Dorothy Malone:

1940s

• The Falcon and the Co-eds (1943) - Malone played a college student who assists The Falcon, a detective, in solving a murder at a girls' school.
• Higher and Higher (1943) - A musical comedy about a rich family's attempt to marry their maid to save their mansion, with Malone in a minor role.
• Seven Days Ashore (1944) - A comedy about sailors on shore leave, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Gildersleeve on Broadway (1943) - A comedy about a small-town man's adventures in New York City, with Malone in a minor role.
• Jam Session (1944) - A musical featuring nightclub performances, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Show Business (1944) - A musical comedy about vaudeville performers, with Malone in a small part.
• Step Lively (1944) - A musical comedy about a producer and his struggles to put on a show, with Malone in a minor role.
• The Falcon Out West (1944) - A mystery in which The Falcon investigates a murder on a ranch, with Malone in a minor role.
• An American Romance (1944) - A drama about an immigrant's rise in American industry, with Malone in a small part.
• Hollywood Canteen (1944) - A musical film featuring cameos by many Hollywood stars, including Malone.
• The Falcon in Hollywood (1944) - Another entry in The Falcon series, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Too Young to Know (1945) - A drama about a young couple dealing with post-war challenges, with Malone in a minor role.
• One Mysterious Night (1944) - A mystery film in which The Falcon is tasked with recovering stolen jewels, with Malone in a small role.
• Frontier Days (1945) - A Western film featuring Malone in a supporting role.
• Dakota (1945) - A Western starring John Wayne, with Malone in a minor role.
• The Big Sleep (1946) - A classic film noir starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, with Malone in a memorable scene as a bookstore clerk.
• Night and Day (1946) - A biographical musical about Cole Porter, with Malone in a supporting role.
• One More Tomorrow (1946) - A drama about a rich playboy's life changes, with Malone in a minor role.
• The Kid from Brooklyn (1946) - A comedy about a milkman turned boxing champ, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Two Guys from Texas (1948) - A comedy musical about two cowboys entangled in a dude ranch mystery, with Malone in a minor role.
• South of St. Louis (1949) - A Western about three friends caught in the Civil War, with Malone in a supporting role

1950s

• Convicted (1950) - A drama about a man wrongly imprisoned for murder, with Malone as the romantic interest.
• The Killer That Stalked New York (1950) - A film noir about a woman spreading smallpox in New York, with Malone in a supporting role.
• The Bushwhackers (1951) - A Western about a pacifist who takes up arms, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Scandal Sheet (1952) - A drama about a newspaper editor involved in a murder, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Torpedo Alley (1953) - A war film about a pilot's redemption, with Malone as the romantic lead.
• Loophole (1954) - A crime drama about a bank teller framed for theft, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Pushover (1954) - A film noir about a cop who falls for a femme fatale, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Private Hell 36 (1954) - A film noir about crooked cops, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Young at Heart (1954) - A musical about a love triangle involving a singer, with Malone in a supporting role.
• The Fast and the Furious (1954) - A B-movie about a wrongly accused man and a car race, with Malone as the romantic lead.
• Five Guns West (1955) - A Western about a group of outlaws on a mission, with Malone as the female lead.
• Tall Man Riding (1955) - A Western about a man seeking revenge, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Battle Cry (1955) - A war film about Marine recruits during WWII, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Sincerely Yours (1955) - A drama about a pianist losing his hearing, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Tension at Table Rock (1956) - A Western about a gunfighter seeking redemption, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Pillars of the Sky (1956) - A Western about conflicts between settlers and Native Americans, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Written on the Wind (1956) - A melodrama about a dysfunctional wealthy family, with Malone winning an Oscar for her role.
• Man of a Thousand Faces (1957) - A biographical film about Lon Chaney, with Malone as his wife.
• The Tarnished Angels (1957) - A drama about a pilot and his family, with Malone in a starring role.
• Too Much, Too Soon (1958) - A biographical film about actress Diana Barrymore, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Warlock (1959) - A Western about a town hiring a gunfighter to clean up crime, with Malone in a supporting role.

1960s

• The Last Voyage (1960) - A disaster film about a sinking ocean liner, with Malone as the trapped wife.
• The Last Sunset (1961) - A Western about a cattle drive and a love triangle, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Beach Party (1963) - A musical comedy about teens on the beach, with Malone in a cameo role.
• Peyton Place (TV Series, 1964-1968) - A prime-time soap opera where Malone starred as Constance MacKenzie, a central character in the show.
• Fate Is the Hunter (1964) - A drama about a pilot investigating a crash, with Malone in a supporting role.

1970s

• The Big Cube (1969) - A thriller about a woman being drugged by her stepdaughter, with Malone in the lead role.
• Winter Kills (1979) - A political thriller about the investigation of a president's assassination, with Malone in a supporting role.

1980s and Beyond

• The Day Time Ended (1980) - A sci-fi film about a family experiencing strange phenomena, with Malone in a supporting role.
• The Being (1983) - A horror film about a mutant monster, with Malone in a supporting role.
• Rest in Pieces (1987) - A horror film about a woman inheriting a haunted house, with Malone in a supporting role.