Joan Shawlee was an American actress known for her memorable roles in films like “Some Like It Hot,” “The Apartment,” and “Irma la Douce.” She was born on March 5, 1926, in Forest Hills, Queens, New York City, and passed away on March 22, 1987, in Hollywood, California.
Personal and Family Life
Joan Shawlee was married twice. Her first marriage was to Walter Shawlee from 1950 to 1956, and they had one child together. Later, she married businessman Edmund Barchet in 1958, but they eventually divorced as well. Joan had two children in total, Angela T Barchet and Walter Shawlee, and she also had a niece named Grace Caroline Currey.
Career
Joan began her career as a model at fourteen and then became a singer at local night spots, which led her to Hollywood. Despite some early challenges, she became known for playing lively and quirky characters in various comedies. Some of her notable roles included playing Sweet Sue in “Some Like It Hot” and Momma Monahan in “The Wild Angels.” Throughout the 60s and 70s, she made many appearances on popular television shows, showcasing her talent in comedic roles.
Death and Legacy
Joan Shawlee passed away from breast cancer on March 22, 1987, at the age of 61. She is remembered for her vibrant presence in films and television, particularly in comedy. Her legacy lives on through her work, which remains cherished by fans of classic cinema.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Some Like It Hot | 1959-03-19 | Sweet Sue |
| The Apartment | 1960-06-21 | Sylvia |
| Irma la Douce | 1963-06-05 | Amazon Annie |
| Buck Privates Come Home | 1947-04-04 | Sylvia Hunter |
| The Wild Angels | 1966-07-20 | Momma Monahan |
| The Dick Van Dyke Show | 1961-10-03 | Pickles |
| Emergency! | 1972-01-22 | Heather |
| Columbo | 1971-09-15 | Mitilda |
| Love, American Style | 1969-09-29 | Bernice Franks |
| Crazy like a Fox | 1984-12-30 | Manager |