# Jane Darwell

> American actress (1879-1967)

**Wikidata**: [Q230159](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q230159)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jane_Darwell)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/jane-darwell

## Summary
Jane Darwell was an American actress known for her extensive work in film and stage, spanning over five decades. She is best remembered for her role in *The Grapes of Wrath* (1940), which earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her career, which began in 1913, established her as a versatile character actress in Hollywood and theater.

## Biography
- **Born**: October 15, 1879 (place not specified in source material)
- **Died**: August 13, 1967
- **Nationality**: American (United States)
- **Occupation**: Film actor, stage actor
- **Known for**: Winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for *The Grapes of Wrath* (1940)
- **Field(s)**: Acting (film, stage)
- **Awards**: Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress (1940), star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

## Contributions
Jane Darwell made significant contributions to American cinema and theater through her performances. Her most notable role was as Ma Joad in *The Grapes of Wrath* (1940), which earned her an Academy Award. She also appeared in numerous other films and stage productions, establishing herself as a respected character actress. Her work in Hollywood spanned from the silent film era to the 1960s, showcasing her versatility and longevity in the industry.

## FAQs
**What was Jane Darwell's most famous role?**
Jane Darwell is best known for her portrayal of Ma Joad in *The Grapes of Wrath* (1940), a role that won her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.

**What awards did Jane Darwell receive?**
She received the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1940 and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

**When did Jane Darwell begin her acting career?**
Her acting career began in 1913, and she worked in both film and stage productions for over five decades.

**What was Jane Darwell's nationality?**
She was an American actress, born and raised in the United States.

## Why They Matter
Jane Darwell's contributions to American cinema and theater are significant due to her ability to portray complex, relatable characters. Her performance in *The Grapes of Wrath* remains one of the most iconic in film history, influencing subsequent generations of actors. Her longevity in the industry, spanning from the early 20th century to the 1960s, demonstrates her adaptability and enduring talent. Darwell's work helped shape the role of character actors in Hollywood, proving that supporting roles could be as impactful as leading ones.

## Notable For
- Winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for *The Grapes of Wrath* (1940).
- Receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- Her extensive career in both film and stage, spanning over five decades.
- Being a prominent character actress in Hollywood during the Golden Age of cinema.

## Body
### Early Life and Career Beginnings
Jane Darwell was born on October 15, 1879, in the United States. She began her acting career in 1913, initially working in stage productions before transitioning to film. Her early work laid the foundation for a career that would span over five decades, showcasing her versatility and dedication to the craft.

### Film Career and Major Roles
Darwell's film career included numerous notable performances, but her most iconic role was as Ma Joad in *The Grapes of Wrath* (1940). This performance earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, solidifying her place in Hollywood history. She continued to work in film throughout her life, appearing in a variety of genres and roles.

### Stage Work
In addition to her film career, Darwell was also a respected stage actress. She performed in numerous live productions, demonstrating her ability to connect with audiences in both mediums. Her stage work complemented her film roles, showcasing her range as an actress.

### Awards and Recognition
Darwell's contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with several accolades. In addition to her Academy Award, she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a testament to her lasting impact on American cinema.

### Legacy
Jane Darwell's legacy is defined by her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her roles. Her performance in *The Grapes of Wrath* remains a benchmark for character acting, and her career serves as an example of longevity and adaptability in the entertainment industry. Her influence can be seen in the work of subsequent generations of actors who have been inspired by her performances.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. Integrated Authority File
3. datos.bne.es
4. www.acmi.net.au
5. International Standard Name Identifier
6. SNAC
7. Internet Broadway Database
8. Find a Grave
9. filmportal.de
10. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
11. Virtual International Authority File
12. CONOR.SI
13. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File
14. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data