Who Is Arlene Francis? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Arlene Francis was born on October 20, 1907, making her a prominent figure in American entertainment until her passing in 2001 at the age of 93. Known for her charm and wit, Francis became a household name as a television host and actress during the mid-20th century. Her career spanned several decades, with notable appearances on popular shows including "The Hollywood Squares" and "What's My Line?". Francis's ability to connect with audiences through her warmth and intelligence made her a beloved figure in television history.
| Occupation | Autobiographer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 20, 1907 |
| Age | 117 Years |
| Birth Place | Boston, Massachusetts, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Arlene Francis's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While precise measurements about Arlene Francis's physical attributes in 2025 are no longer applicable, she was known for her elegant stature. During her active years, she stood at approximately 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) tall. Unfortunately, specific details regarding her weight and other measurements have not been prominently documented.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Arlene Francis was married twice. Her first marriage was to actor and playwright Will Lee in 1929, which lasted until their divorce in 1939. She later found lasting love with TV producer and director Martin Gabel, whom she married in 1945. Together, they had a child, a son named Peter Gabel, who continues to honor her legacy. Throughout her life, Francis was known for her dedication to her family, her impactful relationships, and her vibrant social connections.
Her Armenian father was studying art in Paris at the age of 16 when he learned that both his parents had died in one of the massacres perpetrated by the Ottoman government in Turkey between 1894 and 1896, known as the Hamidian Massacres.
He emigrated to the United States and became a portrait photographer, opening his own studio in Boston in the early 20th century. Later in life, Kazanjian painted canvases of dogwoods, "rabbits in flight", and other nature scenes, selling them at auction in New York.
Net Worth and Salary
Although Arlene Francis's exact net worth at the time of her death is estimated to have ranged between $5 million and $10 million, her legacy endures through the impact she made in the television industry. Given her fame and enduring popularity, it's likely that her estate continues to generate revenue through royalties, memorabilia, and public interest.
Career, Business and Investments
Arlene Francis’s career was characterized by her versatility as an actress and television host. She began her journey in theater before transitioning into radio and eventually television. After her success on "What's My Line?", Francis became a regular guest on various talk shows, demonstrating her charisma and sharp intellect.
In addition to her work in entertainment, she was an advocate for various social causes, which allowed her to invest her influence into philanthropic endeavors. While there is limited information regarding specific business ventures, her contributions were impactful both in entertainment and beyond.
After attending Finch College, Francis began a varied career as an entertainer based in New York City. She became an accomplished stage actress, performing in many local theatre and off-Broadway plays and in 25 Broadway plays through 1975. In 1932, she made her film debut in Universal's Murders in the Rue Morgue. She appeared in films sporadically until the 1970s.
Social Network
Throughout her lifetime, Arlene Francis was active on various social platforms and in social circles that promoted cultural awareness, arts, and entertainment. Although traditional social media did not exist during her heyday, her presence and popularity on television connected her with audiences, celebrities, and notable figures of her time. Today, her legacy is celebrated across various platforms including documentaries, retrospective programs, and social media accounts dedicated to classic TV history.
Francis was the emcee on the last episodes of The Comeback Story, a short-lived 1954 reality show on ABC in which mostly celebrities shared stories of having overcome adversity in their personal lives.
Education
Arlene Francis was well-educated, holding a degree from the University of California, Berkeley. Her education played a significant role in shaping her articulate communication skills, which she showcased throughout her career. Additionally, her commitment to lifelong learning and cultural enrichment contributed to her engaging presence on television.
She acted in a few Hollywood films, debuting in the role of a streetwalker who falls prey to mad scientist Bela Lugosi in Murders in the Rue Morgue (1932). In her memoir, Francis said she was cast for the movie even though her only acting experience at the time was in a small Shakespearean production in a convent school she had attended.
Some sixteen years later, she appeared in the film version of Arthur Miller's play All My Sons (1948) with Edward G. Robinson.
Conclusion
In 2025, Arlene Francis remains an influential figure in American entertainment history. Her contributions to television, her dedication to family, and her impact on social causes ensure that her legacy endures. As fans continue to celebrate her work, Arlene Francis's life story serves as a testament to the timeless impact of charm, wit, and talent in the arts.
