Who Is Joan Leslie? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Joan Leslie was born on January 26, 1925, in Detroit, Michigan, and passed away on December 12, 2015. She was a talented American actress whose career spanned several decades, marked by her appearances in classic films during Hollywood's Golden Age. Notably recognized for her roles in movies such as "Yankee Doodle Dandy" and "The Sky's the Limit," Leslie captivated audiences with her charm and vocal talent. By 2025, Joan would have been celebrating her 100th birthday, reminiscing about her remarkable contributions to the film industry.
| Occupation | Democrats |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | January 26, 1925 |
| Age | 90 Years |
| Birth Place | N/A |
| Horoscope | Aquarius |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 12 October, 2015 |
| Died Place | Los Angeles, California, U.S. |
Popularity
Joan Leslie's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details about Joan Leslie’s height and weight during her career may vary, she was often noted for her elegant demeanor. Typically, Joan stood around 5 feet 4 inches tall and maintained a healthy figure, which complemented her roles as a leading lady in many films. Throughout her life, she epitomized the classic Hollywood beauty.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Joan Leslie was married to Dr. William M. F. Felton in 1945, and they remained together until his passing in 1992. The couple had two daughters: Michele and Ann, who have kept their mother's legacy alive. Though there are few public details about her romantic relationships outside of her marriage, Joan was known to have had numerous admirers during her prolific acting career.
Joan's two older sisters, Betty and Mary Brodel, shared their mother's musical interest and started to learn how to play instruments, such as the saxophone and the banjo, at an early age. They began performing in front of audiences in acts that included singing and dancing. Leslie joined the duo at two and a half years of age. She was soon able to play the accordion.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing, Joan Leslie had a net worth estimated to be around $6 million. Her earnings came primarily from her successful acting career, various endorsements, and television appearances. Over the years, her legacy and influence in Hollywood continued to generate income through royalties and tribute events, securing her place as a beloved figure in cinema history.
Career, Business, and Investments
Joan Leslie's career began in the 1940s and included significant roles in both film and television. After her initial success as a leading lady, she transitioned into television and appeared in numerous shows, thereby adapting to the changing landscape of the entertainment industry. In addition to her acting career, Joan was involved in various charity initiatives and promoted arts education, reflecting her commitment to nurturing future generations in the entertainment industry.
Her first film role was in Camille (1936), a romantic drama starring Greta Garbo and Robert Taylor. She played Taylor's younger sister Marie Jeanette, but her speaking scenes were deleted and she was uncredited. MGM had trouble finding suitable roles for her, and she was let go by the studio along with Deanna Durbin.
Leslie returned to New York, working on the radio and as a model. During this time, her older sister Mary was signed to Universal Studios. Leslie returned to Hollywood with the rest of her family, working for different studios as a freelancer. She mainly worked for RKO Pictures.
Social Network
Even though Joan Leslie passed away in 2015, her legacy continues on social media through dedicated fan pages and online tributes. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter feature numerous posts and discussions celebrating her life and work, allowing fans new and old to engage with her enduring impact on the film industry.
At age 15, Leslie was selected by a group of Hollywood directors as one of 13 "baby stars of 1940". That same year, she appeared in the Warner Bros. film short, Alice in Movieland, about a starlet trying to make her mark in Hollywood. One of the first films directed by Jean Negulesco in Hollywood, it was based on a story by Ed Sullivan.
Education
Joan Leslie was educated in her hometown and later pursued her passion for acting and music. She trained in classical music, which opened many doors in her career, especially in musical films. Her education and dedication to her craft contributed significantly to her success, providing her with a foundation that allowed her to thrive in the competitive Hollywood landscape.
Two weeks later, the then-15-year-old actress was asked to do a screen test while unaware which movie it was for. She got the part because she could cry on cue. The movie was High Sierra (1941), starring Ida Lupino and Humphrey Bogart. Leslie played the crippled girl, Velma. Film critic Bosley Crowther wrote: "a newcomer named Joan Leslie handles lesser roles effectively."
