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Jane Bryan
Jane Bryan 1940.jpg
Bryan, 1940
Born
Jane O'Brien

(1918-06-11)June 11, 1918
Died April 8, 2009(2009-04-08) (aged 90)
Occupation Actress
Years active 1936–1940
Spouse(s)
Justin Dart
(m. 1939; died 1984)
Children 3

Jane Bryan, whose real name was Jane O'Brien, was an American actress. She was born on June 11, 1918, and passed away on April 8, 2009. She was a talented actress who worked for Warner Bros. studio. Even though she was becoming a big star, she decided to stop acting in 1940 when she was only 22 years old. After leaving Hollywood, Jane became a kind person who helped many causes and supported the arts.

Early Life and Discovering Acting

Jane Bryan was born in Hollywood, California. Her father was a lawyer. She first learned about acting in a special workshop run by actress Jean Muir. It was there that another famous actress, Bette Davis, noticed Jane's talent. This discovery helped Jane start her journey in the film world.

Jane's Short but Bright Film Career

Jane Bryan gained her first acting experience at the Hollywood Theatre Workshop. She made her very first movie appearance in The Case of the Black Cat in 1936.

Even though her acting career only lasted four years, Jane appeared in many important films. She often acted alongside big stars of her time. Some of her memorable movies include:

Jane's first main role was in the movie We Are Not Alone (1939). A writer named Robbin Coons from the Associated Press said her acting in that film was "a heart-touching performance." He also noted that her honesty and truthfulness shone brightly in the movie.

Marriage and Family Life

Jane Bryan married a businessman named Justin Dart on New Year's Eve in 1939. They stayed married for many years until he passed away in 1984. In 1943, Justin Dart took over a company called United Drug Company. He then changed the name of its stores to Rexall Drug.

Jane and Justin Dart were strong supporters of the Republican political party. They were good friends with Ronald Reagan, who used to be the governor of California. They even helped convince him to run for president of the United States in 1980.

Helping Others: Public Service

From 1971 to 1976, Jane Bryan served on the United States Commission of Fine Arts. This group helps make decisions about art and architecture in Washington, D.C. This shows her dedication to supporting the arts even after her acting career.

Later Years and Passing

Jane Bryan Dart passed away at her home in Pebble Beach, California, on April 8, 2009. She was 90 years old and had been ill for some time. She was survived by her three children, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and two brothers.

Filmography

Year Title Role Notes
1936 The Case of the Black Cat Wilma Laxter
1936 The Captain's Kid Betsy Ann Prentiss
1937 Under Southern Stars Arlene Short film
1937 Marked Woman Betty Strauber
1937 The Cherokee Strip Janie Walton
1937 Kid Galahad Marie Donati
1937 Confession Lisa Koslov
1938 A Slight Case of Murder Mary Marco
1938 The Sisters Grace Elliott
1938 Girls on Probation Connie Heath
1938 Brother Rat Kate Rice
1939 The Man Who Dared Marge Carter
1939 Each Dawn I Die Joyce
1939 The Old Maid Tina
1939 These Glamour Girls Carol Christy
1939 We Are Not Alone Leni Krafft
1939 Invisible Stripes Peggy
1940 Brother Rat and a Baby Kate Her last film role

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Jane Bryan para niños

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