Priscilla Lane, American actress (b. 1915)

Priscilla Lane, born Priscilla Mullican on June 12, 1915, in Indianola, Iowa, forged a distinguished career as an American actress, becoming a familiar and cherished face during the Golden Age of Hollywood. She was widely recognized as the youngest of the famed Lane Sisters, a talented performing family, primarily a trio (with Rosemary and Lola, though sometimes including Gale) who captivated audiences with their singing and acting abilities both on stage and screen. This familial connection often provided a unique, star-studded backdrop to her individual career, establishing her firmly within the competitive entertainment industry until her passing on April 4, 1995.

While her sisters also achieved significant recognition, Priscilla’s acting talent shone brightly in a series of memorable films that cemented her own legacy. Her screen presence was frequently characterized by a compelling blend of innocence, resilience, and charm, allowing her to portray a diverse range of leading ladies across various genres.

Among her most iconic and enduring roles is that of Jean Sherman in the gripping 1939 crime drama, The Roaring Twenties. This classic gangster film, a quintessential representation of its genre, saw her share the screen with two titans of Hollywood, James Cagney and Humphrey Bogart. Her nuanced portrayal added a crucial human element and emotional depth to the film’s intense narrative, making her character a poignant focal point amidst the period’s tumultuous backdrop.

She further demonstrated her versatility and appeal in Alfred Hitchcock's thrilling 1942 espionage film, Saboteur. In this suspenseful wartime picture, Lane took on the challenging role of Patricia Martin, the resourceful and spirited heroine who finds herself unwittingly embroiled in a cross-country chase alongside the wrongly accused protagonist. Her performance was pivotal in driving the film's tension and narrative, solidifying her status as a capable and compelling leading lady in a high-stakes thriller.

Another beloved film for which she is fondly remembered is the critically acclaimed dark comedy, Arsenic and Old Lace (1944). Here, she portrayed Elaine Harper, the spirited and somewhat bewildered fiancée and eventual bride of Cary Grant's character, Mortimer Brewster. Her role provided a delightful and grounded counterpoint to the film's macabre humor and theatrical absurdity, showcasing her ability to blend seamlessly into ensemble casts while holding her own opposite one of Hollywood's greatest comedic stars.

Frequently Asked Questions About Priscilla Lane

Who were the Lane Sisters?

The Lane Sisters were a popular singing and acting family act from the 1930s and 1940s, primarily consisting of Priscilla, Rosemary, and Lola Lane. They performed together on stage and in several films, often portraying sisters.

What was Priscilla Lane's birth name?

Priscilla Lane was born Priscilla Mullican. She adopted "Lane" as her professional surname, as did her sisters, for their performing careers.

What are some of Priscilla Lane's most famous films?

She is particularly well-remembered for her leading roles in The Roaring Twenties (1939), Alfred Hitchcock's Saboteur (1942), and the beloved dark comedy Arsenic and Old Lace (1944).

Did Priscilla Lane work with any notable actors or directors?

Indeed. She co-starred with Hollywood legends such as James Cagney, Humphrey Bogart, and Cary Grant. She also had the distinction of being directed by the master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock, in Saboteur.

When did Priscilla Lane live?

Priscilla Lane was born on June 12, 1915, and passed away on April 4, 1995, enjoying a long life after her initial film career concluded.