Early Life and Career Beginnings
Arlene Francis, born Arline Francis Kazanjian on October 20, 1907, in Boston, Massachusetts, was the daughter of Leah and Aram Kazanjian. Her father, an Armenian immigrant, was a portrait photographer who later became a painter. The family moved to New York City when Arlene was seven years old. She attended Finch College and developed an early interest in the performing arts. Her career began in theater, where she appeared in 25 Broadway plays from 1928 to 1975, including “La Gringa” and “Don’t Call Back” .
Transition to Film
Francis made her film debut in 1932 with “Murders in the Rue Morgue,” where she played a streetwalker who falls victim to a mad scientist portrayed by Bela Lugosi. Despite limited acting experience at the time, Arlene Francis was cast in this horror classic .
Notable Film Roles
- “Too Much Johnson” (1938): Directed by Orson Welles, Francis played Mrs. Dathis in this film, which was intended to accompany a stage production but was never completed .
- “All My Sons” (1948): In this adaptation of Arthur Miller’s play, she portrayed Sue Bayliss alongside Edward G. Robinson .
- “With These Hands” (1950): Francis played Jenny Brody in this drama highlighting labor union struggles .
- “One, Two, Three” (1961): Directed by Billy Wilder, she played Phyllis MacNamara, the wife of James Cagney’s character, in this satirical comedy filmed in Munich .
- “The Thrill of It All” (1963): Francis took on the role of Mrs. Fraleigh in this romantic comedy starring Doris Day and James Garner .
- “Laura” (1968): She appeared as Ann Treadwell in this television adaptation of the classic film noir .
- “Harvey” (1972): In this television movie, Francis played Betty Chumley .
- “Fedora” (1978): Her final film role was as a newscaster in this Billy Wilder drama .
Television Career
Arlene Francis was a pioneering figure in television, hosting and appearing in numerous programs:
- “What’s My Line?” (1950–1975): Francis was a regular panelist on this popular game show, appearing in over 400 episodes. Her wit and charm made her a beloved television personality .
- “Home” (1954–1957): She hosted this NBC daytime program aimed at women, covering topics from homemaking to cultural issues .
- “The Arlene Francis Show” (1957–1958): A daily interview show on WOR in New York, showcasing her skills as a conversationalist .
- Guest Appearances: Francis made guest appearances on various shows, including “The Price Is Right,” “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” and “Scarecrow and Mrs. King” .
Radio and Stage Work
Before her television fame, Francis had a robust career in radio and theater:
- Radio: She began her radio career with “45 Minutes in Hollywood” and was a member of Orson Welles’ Mercury Theatre. She also hosted “Blind Date,” a radio game show that transitioned to television .
- Broadway: Her stage credits include productions like “The Women,” “Once More With Feeling,” and “Mrs. Daily Has a Lover” .
Personal Life and Legacy
Arlene Francis was married twice. Her first marriage, from 1935 to 1945, was to Neil Agnew, an executive with Paramount Pictures. She later married actor Martin Gabel, with whom she had a son, Peter. Francis passed away on May 31, 2001, in San Francisco at the age of 93. Her contributions to entertainment were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame .
Arlene Francis Net Worth
At the time of her death in 2001, Arlene Francis had an estimated net worth of $10 million.
Sources of Wealth
- Television: Especially from her long-running role on What’s My Line?
- Film and Theater: Including roles in One, Two, Three and multiple Broadway productions
- Radio: Hosting and appearances during the golden age of radio
- Endorsements & Guest Appearances: Minor earnings from commercials and talk shows
- Royalties: From reruns and syndication of her shows
Final Summary
Arlene Francis was a trailblazer who seamlessly transitioned across media theatre, film, radio, and television with consistent success. She broke barriers for women in broadcasting, becoming one of the first high-profile female hosts and editors on network television. Yet, her enduring legacy lies with What’s My Line?, where her intelligence, charm, and wit made her a beloved and respected television icon. Over a career spanning more than six decades, her presence helped shape early American entertainment and set the standard for female broadcasters who followed.