Frances Drake was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “Mad Love,” “The Invisible Ray,” and “Les Misérables.” Born on October 22, 1912, in New York City, New York, she enjoyed a successful career in film until her passing on January 18, 2000.
Personal and Family Life
Frances Drake, originally named Frances Dean, spent part of her childhood in England, where she attended a finishing school in Arundel. She was married twice; first to Lt. Cecil John Arthur Howard from 1939 until his death in 1985 and later to David Brown in 1992, which lasted until her own death. In her later years, she became passionate about animal rights causes and was actively involved in promoting those issues.
Career
Drake began her career as a nightclub dancer in London before transitioning into film. She gained fame in Hollywood after her debut in “Bolero” in 1934. Drake was often cast in roles as damsels in distress alongside famous horror actors like Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff. Beaten down by industry pressures and unhappy at the studios she worked with, she sought her release from a Paramount contract early in her career. Despite challenges, she made a notable impact in several films throughout the 1930s and 1940s.
Death and Legacy
Frances Drake passed away from natural causes on January 18, 2000, in Irvine, California. She left behind a legacy of diverse roles in classic films that showcased her talent. Beyond her film contributions, her advocacy for animal rights remains a significant part of her legacy.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Invisible Ray | 1936-01-20 | Diana Rukh |
| Mad Love | 1935-07-12 | Yvonne Orlac |
| Les Misérables | 1935-04-20 | Eponine |
| It’s a Wonderful World | 1939-05-19 | Vivian Tarbel |
| Ladies Should Listen | 1934-08-10 | Anna Mirelle |
| Forsaking All Others | 1934-12-23 | Connie Barnes Todd |
| The Lone Wolf in Paris | 1938-05-25 | Princess Thania of Arvonne |
| The Trumpet Blows | 1934-04-14 | Chulita |
| I’d Give My Life | 1936-08-13 | Mary Reyburn |
| Bolero | 1934-02-23 | Leona |
| The Preview Murder Mystery | 1936-02-28 | Peggy Madison |
| The Affairs of Martha | 1942-06-21 | Sylvia Norwood |
| Without Regret | 1935-09-13 | Mona Gould |
| There’s Always a Woman | 1938-04-20 | Anne Calhoun |
| She Married an Artist | 1937-11-27 | Sally Dennis |
| Midnight Taxi | 1937-04-04 | Gilda Lee |
| You Can’t Have Everything | 1937-08-02 | Girl in YWCA (uncredited) |
| Florida Special | 1936-04-21 | Marina Landon |
| Transient Lady | 1935-03-04 | Dale Cameron |
| And Sudden Death | 1936-06-16 | Betty Winslow |
| Love Under Fire | 1937-08-20 | Pamela Beaumont |
| I Take This Woman | 1940-02-02 | Lola Estermont |
| The Jewel | 1933-10-01 | Jenny Day / Lady Joan |
| Meet My Sister | 1933-08-18 | Helen Sowerby |