Cathy O'Donnell

Cathy O'Donnell, born as Ann Steely (July 6, 1923 – April 11, 1970) was a notable American actress known for her roles in popular films like The Best Years of Our Lives, Ben-Hur, Detective Story and They Live by Night. Born in Siluria, Alabama, her early interest in acting shaped her career path. At the age of twelve, her family moved to Oklahoma City where she worked as a stenographer for a U.S. Army induction center after high school graduation. There, she studied acting at Oklahoma City University, appearing as Juliet in a college production of Romeo and Juliet. Cathy O'Donnell's career breakthrough happened during a trip to Hollywood, where an agent of Samuel Goldwyn noticed her. Despite her heavily accented English, Goldwyn put her under contract, paving her path to success in the entertainment industry. Her first major film role came in 1946's The Best Years of Our Lives. She continued to make a name for herself in the film industry with strong performances in They Live by Night, The Miniver Story, Detective Story, and The Man from Laramie, among others. O'Donnell also made a number of appearances in 1960s TV shows, with her last screen appearance in 1964. She passed away on her 22nd wedding anniversary after a prolonged battle with cancer.