Celebrity Info
Angela Lansbury became a household name across the globe, and it’s no surprise why—her remarkable acting journey spanned an incredible seven decades. Born in London, Angela Lansbury’s early life took a pivotal turn when her family relocated to New York in 1940, seeking safety from the chaos of World War II. Not long after, she made her way to Hollywood, where her cinematic debut came in the 1944 thriller Gaslight, starring Ingrid Bergman. That role marked the beginning of what would become a legendary career. Almost immediately, Angela Lansbury appeared in other standout films like National Velvet (1944) and The Picture of Dorian Gray (1945), quickly establishing herself as a powerful presence on screen.
As the years went on, Angela Lansbury effortlessly transitioned into television during its formative era, becoming a familiar face in popular teleplays of the time. She made memorable appearances on series such as General Electric Theater (CBS, 1953–62) and The Ford Television Theatre (CBS, 1952–57). On the big screen in the 1950s, she shared the spotlight with stars like Danny Kaye in The Court Jester (1955) and Paul Newman in The Long, Hot Summer (1958). One of her more lighthearted roles came in Blue Hawaii (1961), where she played the mother of Elvis Presley—but it was her next project that truly defined her dramatic range. In The Manchurian Candidate (1962), Angela Lansbury delivered a chilling performance as the manipulative mother of a brainwashed assassin, stealing scenes from Frank Sinatra and earning an Academy Award nomination for her efforts.
Her talents weren’t limited to film and TV. On Broadway, Angela Lansbury originated the leading role in the hit musical Mame in 1966, showcasing her versatility and stage prowess. In the early 1970s, she moved to Ireland—the homeland of her mother—but this change of scenery didn’t slow her down. She starred in beloved projects like Disney’s Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971) and joined an all-star ensemble in Death on the Nile (1978). Her stage work continued to earn praise, especially her unforgettable portrayal of Nellie Lovett in Stephen Sondheim’s Sweeney Todd, a role that further solidified her status as a theatrical powerhouse.
Then came 1984—a turning point in Angela Lansbury’s already impressive career. She took on the role of Jessica Fletcher, a novelist turned amateur sleuth, in the long-running CBS series Murder, She Wrote. Over its 12-season run (1984–1996), Angela Lansbury became a cultural icon, captivating audiences of all ages. Even after the show ended, she reprised the character in a series of successful TV movies, keeping Jessica Fletcher alive for fans around the world.
Meanwhile, Angela Lansbury also found a special place in the hearts of younger viewers. While filming Murder, She Wrote, she lent her warm, soothing voice to Mrs. Potts in Disney’s animated classic Beauty and the Beast (1991). That maternal, wise presence resonated deeply, and she continued voicing the beloved teapot in various spin-offs and specials for years to come.
In the later stages of her career, Angela Lansbury remained active, taking on roles in family-friendly films like Nanny McPhee (2005) and Mr. Popper’s Penguins (2011). Even in her 90s, she wasn’t ready to step away. A new generation discovered her talent through her appearances in the 2017 miniseries Little Women and the magical Mary Poppins Returns (2018), where she shared the screen with Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda.
Angela Lansbury passed away on October 11, 2022, at the age of 96, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy. From her early days in wartime London to becoming one of the most enduring figures in entertainment, Angela Lansbury’s influence touched every corner of film, television, and theater—proving that true artistry never fades.
When it comes to Angela Lansbury’s most acclaimed work, fans and critics alike often point to Till the Clouds Roll By (1946) as her highest rated film. It really stands out in Angela Lansbury’s career, showcasing her early talent and setting a strong foundation for what was to come. Over the years, Angela Lansbury has built an impressive body of work across movies, music, and stage performances. However, not every project reached the same level of success. For instance, Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas (1997), while charming to some, is generally regarded as Angela Lansbury’s lowest rated performance in film or music. Still, even in less celebrated roles, Angela Lansbury brought depth and grace that only added to her enduring legacy.
United States
