Jane Russell

Ernestine Jane Geraldine Russell (June 21, 1921 – February 28, 2011) was an American actress and model. She was one of Hollywood's leading sex symbols in the 1940s and 1950s. She starred in more than 20 films. Known for her beauty, silhouette and for having a great presence, with charisma and seriousness, Russell moved from the Midwest to California, where she had her first film role in Howard Hughes' The Outlaw (1943). In 1947, Russell delved into music before returning to films. After starring in several films in the 1950s, including Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953), Russell again returned to music while completing several other films in the 1960s. Russell married three times, adopted three children, and in 1955 founded Waif, the first international adoption program. She received several accolades for her achievements in film. Her hand and footprints were immortalized in the forecourt of Grauman's Chinese Theatre with Marilyn Monroe. A star with her name was placed on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. ()