Kay Kendall
ActingAbout Kay Kendall
From Wikipedia Kay Kendall (21 May 1927 – 6 September 1959) was an English actress. Kendall began her film career in the musical film London Town (1946). Though the film was a financial failure, Kendall continued to work regularly until her appearance in the comedy film Genevieve (1953) brought her widespread recognition. Most prolific in British films, Kendall also achieved some popularity with American audiences, and won a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for her role in the musical-comedy film Les Girls (1957). She began a romantic relationship with actor Rex Harrison after they appeared together in the comedy film The Constant Husband (1955), and they were married in 1957. Harrison learned from Kendall's doctor that she had been diagnosed with myeloid leukaemia, a fact that was kept from Kendall, who believed she was suffering from an iron deficiency. The actor cared for Kendall until her death at age 32.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Kay Kendall reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 26 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Comedy
The majority of Kay Kendall's filmography leans towards the Comedy genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 31% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Kay Kendall remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Fiddlers Three, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Kay Kendall Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Kay Kendall's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Kay Kendall.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Cole Porter in Hollywood: Ça c'est l'amour | Scenes: Les Girls (archive footage) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1960 | Once More, with Feeling! | Dolly Fabian | Average | Similar → |
| 1958 | The Reluctant Debutante | Sheila Broadbent | Hit | Similar → |
| 1957 | Les Girls | Lady Sybil Wren | Average | Similar → |
| 1955 | Simon and Laura | Laura Foster | Average | Similar → |
| 1955 | Quentin Durward | Isabelle, Countess of Marcroy | Average | Similar → |
| 1955 | The Constant Husband | Monica Hathaway | Hit | Similar → |
| 1955 | Abdullah's Harem | Ronnie | Flop | Similar → |
| 1954 | Doctor in the House | Miss Isobel Minster | Hit | Similar → |
| 1954 | Fast and Loose | Carol Hankin | Average | Similar → |
| 1953 | Meet Mr. Lucifer | Lonely Hearts Singer | Flop | Similar → |
| 1953 | Street of Shadows | Barbara Gale | Flop | Similar → |
| 1953 | The Square Ring | Eve | Hit | Similar → |
| 1953 | Genevieve | Rosalind Peters | Hit | Similar → |
| 1953 | Mantrap | Vera Corridge | Flop | Similar → |
| 1952 | It Started in Paradise | Lady Caroline Frencham | Flop | Similar → |
| 1952 | Wings of Danger | Alexia LaRoche | Flop | Similar → |
| 1952 | Curtain Up | Sandra Beverley | Hit | Similar → |
| 1951 | Lady Godiva Rides Again | Sylvia Clark | Average | Similar → |
| 1951 | Happy Go Lovely | Secretary (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
| 1950 | Night and the City | Helen's Girl (uncredited) | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1950 | Dance Hall | Doreen | Average | Similar → |
| 1946 | London Town | Patsy | Flop | Similar → |
| 1945 | Caesar and Cleopatra | Slave Girl (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
| 1944 | Fiddlers Three | Girl (uncredited) | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1944 | Champagne Charlie | Bit Part (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
Kay Kendall - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Kay Kendall?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Kay Kendall is "Fiddlers Three" with a rating of 8.2/10.
How many movies has Kay Kendall acted in?
Kay Kendall has been featured in at least 26 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Kay Kendall?
Other notable films include "Night and the City", "Curtain Up", and "The Square Ring".