Tammy Grimes, American actress and singer (d. 2016)

Tammy Lee Grimes (January 30, 1934 – October 30, 2016) was a celebrated American actress renowned for her distinctive presence and captivating performances across both film and, most notably, the stage. Her unique husky voice, sophisticated charm, and often eccentric wit made her a singular figure in American theatre, particularly on Broadway, where she achieved her greatest accolades.

A Luminous Career Crowned by Two Tony Awards

Grimes’s enduring legacy is highlighted by her remarkable achievement of winning two prestigious Tony Awards, often considered the highest honor in American theatre, recognizing excellence in Broadway productions. Her first Tony for Best Featured Actress in a Musical was awarded for her captivating portrayal of Molly Tobin in the 1960 musical, The Unsinkable Molly Brown. In this role, she originated the spirited and resilient character inspired by the real-life Margaret Brown, a survivor of the Titanic disaster, showcasing her ability to imbue roles with both strength and charm.

Her second Tony, for Best Actress in a Play, came in 1970 for her brilliant starring performance as Amanda Prynne in a highly acclaimed Broadway revival of Noël Coward's classic comedy of manners, Private Lives. As Amanda, one of two sophisticated ex-spouses who unexpectedly reconnect, Grimes perfectly embodied Coward’s witty dialogue and elegant, yet volatile, character, solidifying her status as a master of theatrical comedy.

A Distinguished Theatrical Pedigree

Adding to the family’s significant contributions to the arts, Tammy Grimes was part of a distinguished theatrical lineage. Her former husband, the legendary Canadian actor Christopher Plummer (married 1956-1960), was also a prolific Tony Award winner, renowned for his extensive work across stage, film, and television, including an Academy Award for film. Their daughter, the equally acclaimed actress Amanda Plummer, further extended this legacy by earning her own Tony Award for her powerful stage performances, most notably in Agnes of God. This trio of Tony-winning performers underscores the profound artistic talent within their family.

Diverse Roles Across Stage and Screen

Grimes’s versatility extended beyond her Tony-winning roles, encompassing a wide array of significant characters in both theatrical and televised productions. She originated the role of Diana in the 1976 Broadway production of Neil Simon's acclaimed comedy, California Suite. This poignant yet humorous role of a British actress attending the Academy Awards was later famously portrayed in the film adaptation by Maggie Smith, who subsequently won an Oscar for her performance, highlighting the depth and impact of the character Grimes first brought to life on stage.

In 1978, Grimes took on the role of Elmire in a notable Broadway and television production of Molière's 17th-century satirical masterpiece, Tartuffe. This televised staging as part of PBS’s “Great Performances” series allowed a wider audience to witness her nuanced portrayal of Orgon's virtuous and rational wife, a key figure in the play’s comedic and moral complexities.

Her strong affinity for the works of Noël Coward was evident throughout her career, as she originated roles in several of his productions. Beyond Private Lives, she breathed life into characters such as the mischievous ghost Elvira in the 1964 musical High Spirits (an adaptation of Coward’s Blithe Spirit) and the charmingly promiscuous Lulu in the 1959 play Look After Lulu!. Her performances consistently captured the essence of Coward's sophisticated wit and dramatic flair.

Beyond Broadway: Television and Cabaret

While primarily a stage actress, Grimes also ventured into television. In 1966, she starred in her own television series, The Tammy Grimes Show, a sitcom where she played a zany heiress. Though the show was short-lived, running for only four episodes, it offered a glimpse into her comedic timing in a different medium.

Equally renowned were her captivating cabaret acts, which became a significant facet of her public persona. Performing in intimate venues, Grimes showcased her distinctive vocal style and magnetic stage presence, blending songs with personal anecdotes and witty monologues. These sophisticated and often whimsical performances allowed her to connect directly with audiences, further cementing her reputation as a multifaceted entertainer.

Lasting Recognition in American Theatre

In recognition of her profound and lasting contributions to the performing arts, Tammy Lee Grimes was deservedly inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 2003. This honor, bestowed upon individuals who have made outstanding contributions to American theatre, stands as a testament to her extraordinary talent, groundbreaking roles, and indelible impact on generations of theatregoers and artists.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tammy Lee Grimes

• What was Tammy Grimes best known for?
  Tammy Grimes was primarily known for her extensive and acclaimed career as a stage actress, particularly on Broadway. She was famous for her distinctive voice, sophisticated style, and two Tony Award-winning performances in The Unsinkable Molly Brown and a revival of Private Lives.
• How many Tony Awards did Tammy Grimes win?
  Tammy Grimes won two Tony Awards during her career. The first was in 1961 for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for The Unsinkable Molly Brown, and the second was in 1970 for Best Actress in a Play for Private Lives.
• Were other members of Tammy Grimes's family also Tony Award winners?
  Yes, both her former husband, Christopher Plummer, and their daughter, Amanda Plummer, are also esteemed Tony Award-winning actors, making them a distinguished family in American theatre history.
• Did Tammy Grimes only perform on stage?
  While her main focus and greatest successes were on stage, Tammy Grimes also appeared in film and had her own television series, The Tammy Grimes Show, in 1966. She was also widely celebrated for her unique cabaret performances.
• When was Tammy Grimes inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame?
  Tammy Grimes was inducted into the American Theater Hall of Fame in 2003, a significant recognition of her lifetime contributions to American theatre.