Entertainment

Kathryn Crosby, Beloved Actress and Widow of Bing Crosby, Passes Away at 90

2024-09-21

LOS ANGELES – Three-time film star and idol of Hollywood's golden era, Kathryn Crosby, has passed away at the age of 90.

Known for her roles in classics such as "The 7th Voyage of Sinbad," "Anatomy of a Murder," and "Operation Mad Ball," Kathryn died peacefully of natural causes Friday night in her home in Hillsborough, Northern California, as confirmed by a family spokesperson.

Under her professional name, Kathryn Grant, she captivated audiences alongside acting legends like Tony Curtis in "Mister Cory" (1957) and Victor Mature in "The Big Circus" (1959). Her partnership with acclaimed director Phil Karlson led to memorable performances in notable films including "Tight Spot" and "The Phenix City Story," both released in 1955.

Kathryn's impressive filmography also showcased her talents alongside icons such as Jack Lemmon in "Operation Mad Ball," James Darren in "The Brothers Rico," and James Stewart in Otto Preminger's "Anatomy of a Murder."

Born on November 25, 1933, in West Columbia, Texas, as Olive Kathryn Grandstaff, she pursued her passion for the arts at the University of Texas, earning a fine arts degree before moving to Hollywood to kick-start her career in 1953. It was during this time that she met Bing Crosby while conducting interviews for a column she wrote for her hometown newspaper. The two married in 1957, forging a partnership that saw them become one of Hollywood's most iconic couples.

Following their marriage, Kathryn stepped back from her acting career to focus on family life, raising their three children, Harry, Mary, who gained fame as an actor on the TV show "Dallas," and Nathaniel, an accomplished amateur golfer. However, she did not completely leave the spotlight; she frequently appeared alongside Bing in his beloved Christmas television specials and in advertisements for Minute Maid orange juice. Notably, Kathryn later pursued a medical career and became a registered nurse in 1963.

In the 1970s, Kathryn showcased her charismatic presence as a morning talk show host on KPIX-TV in Northern California. After Bing's untimely death from a heart attack in 1977 while golfing in Spain, she returned to the stage, starring in productions such as "Same Time, Next Year" and "Charley's Aunt." She also joined the cast of the 1996 Broadway revival of "State Fair," alongside John Davidson and Andrea McArdle.

For an impressive duration of 16 years, Kathryn hosted the Crosby National Golf Tournament in Bermuda Run, North Carolina, highlighting her connection to both her late husband and the sport.

Kathryn's legacy lives on not only through her film work but also through her children. She was married to Maurice Sullivan for ten years before a tragic car accident claimed his life in 2010, leaving Kathryn to reflect on a life of love, loss, and remarkable achievements.

Kathryn Crosby will be greatly missed, and her contributions to Hollywood's rich tapestry will forever be cherished.