Susan Kohner
ActingAbout Susan Kohner
Susanna "Susan" Kohner (born November 11, 1936) is an American former actress. She is best known for her role as Sarah Jane in Douglas Sirk's drama Imitation of Life (1959), which earned her a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Kohner has also starred in the films The Gene Krupa Story (1959), for which she won a Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer – Female, All the Fine Young Cannibals (1960), By Love Possessed (1961), and Freud (1962). Kohner retired from acting in 1964, after marrying menswear designer John Weitz, with whom she had two sons, filmmakers Paul and Chris Weitz.
Susan Kohner Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Susan Kohner reflects a strong mix of popular and critically appreciated roles. Across 12 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Susan Kohner's work falls within the Drama genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 58% of Susan Kohner's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains Imitation of Life, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Susan Kohner Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Susan Kohner's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Susan Kohner has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | A Star Without a Star: The Untold Juanita Moore Story | Self | Flop | Similar → |
| 1962 | Freud: The Secret Passion | Martha Freud | Hit | Similar → |
| 1961 | By Love Possessed | Helen Detweiler | Flop | Similar → |
| 1960 | All the Fine Young Cannibals | Catherine McDowall | Flop | Similar → |
| 1960 | In the Presence of Mine Enemies | Rachel Heller | Flop | Similar → |
| 1959 | The Gene Krupa Story | Ethel Maguire | Hit | Similar → |
| 1959 | The Big Fisherman | Fara | Flop | Similar → |
| 1959 | Imitation of Life | Sarah Jane (18) | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1957 | Dino | Shirley | Hit | Similar → |
| 1957 | Trooper Hook | Consuela | Hit | Similar → |
| 1956 | The Last Wagon | Jolie Normand | Hit | Similar → |
| 1955 | To Hell and Back | Maria | Hit | Similar → |
Susan Kohner - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Susan Kohner?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Susan Kohner is "Imitation of Life" with a rating of 7.5/10.
How many movies has Susan Kohner acted in?
Susan Kohner has been featured in at least 12 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Susan Kohner?
Other notable films include "Dino", "The Gene Krupa Story", and "Trooper Hook".