Karolyn Grimes
ActingAbout Karolyn Grimes
Karolyn Grimes (born July 4, 1940) is an American actress. At age 6, Karolyn Grimes played the role of Zuzu Bailey in the holiday film It's a Wonderful Life (1946). Her childhood film career spanned 16 movies, but she is best remembered for playing the daughter of George and Mary Bailey (James Stewart and Donna Reed). The petals from her rose symbolize the values of family, friends and life itself in the 1946 classic, and it is Zuzu who speaks the movie's most memorable line, "Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings." In recent years, Karolyn has carried on the spirit of It's a Wonderful Life (1946), serving as the film's most active and appealing ambassador.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Karolyn Grimes reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 15 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Drama
The majority of Karolyn Grimes's filmography leans towards the Drama 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 40% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Karolyn Grimes remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in It's a Wonderful Life, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Karolyn Grimes Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Karolyn Grimes's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Karolyn Grimes.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | A Night at the Movies: Merry Christmas! | Self - Interviewee / Zuzu Bailey | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1987 | James Stewart: A Wonderful Life | Self (archive footage) | Average | Similar → |
| 1951 | Honeychile | Effie | Average | Similar → |
| 1950 | Rio Grande | Margaret Mary | Hit | Similar → |
| 1949 | Lust for Gold | Young Martha | Average | Similar → |
| 1948 | Albuquerque | Myrtle Walton | Hit | Similar → |
| 1947 | The Bishop's Wife | Debby Brougham | Hit | Similar → |
| 1947 | Mother Wore Tights | Iris - Age 6 (uncredited) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1947 | The Private Affairs of Bel Ami | - | Average | Similar → |
| 1947 | Philo Vance's Gamble | Pat Roberts | Average | Similar → |
| 1947 | Sweet and Low | Tammie | Flop | Similar → |
| 1946 | It's a Wonderful Life | Zuzu Bailey | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1946 | Blue Skies | Mary Elizabeth Adams | Average | Similar → |
| 1946 | Sister Kenny | Carolyn (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1945 | Pardon My Past | Stephanie Pemberton | Average | Similar → |
Karolyn Grimes - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Karolyn Grimes?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Karolyn Grimes is "It's a Wonderful Life" with a rating of 8.3/10.
How many movies has Karolyn Grimes acted in?
Karolyn Grimes has been featured in at least 15 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Karolyn Grimes?
Other notable films include "A Night at the Movies: Merry Christmas!", "The Bishop's Wife", and "Sister Kenny".