James Howard Dunn was born on February 2, 1901 in New York City, NY. He was the son of a Wall Street stockbroker and spent three years working with his father in the financial industry before deciding to pursue a career in acting. Dunn's early life was marked by a strong work ethic and a desire to succeed in whatever he chose to do.
Dunn's acting career began in the early 1930s when he signed with Fox Studios and appeared in a number of films, including Society Girl in 1932 and Hello, Sister! in 1933. However, it was his performance in the 1945 film A Tree Grows in Brooklyn that brought him critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Dunn's talent and dedication to his craft were evident in every role he took on, and he quickly became a sought-after actor in Hollywood.
Despite his success in Hollywood, Dunn's personal life was marked by some turmoil. He was married to actress Frances Gifford from 1938 to 1942, but the marriage ended in divorce. Dunn then married Edna Rush in 1945, and the couple remained together until Dunn's passing in 1967. Dunn's dedication to his family was evident in his relationships with both his wives and his children, and he always made time for them despite his busy acting career.
James Dunn's impact on the film industry is still felt today, as his performances continue to be celebrated by fans and critics alike. His work in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn remains a standout moment in his career, and his Academy Award win solidified his place in Hollywood history. Dunn's legacy as a talented and versatile actor is one that will not be forgotten, and his influence on future generations of actors is still felt to this day.
Society Girl (1932), Hello, Sister! (1933), A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (1945)
Frances Gifford (1938-1942), Edna Rush (1945-1967)
Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (1946)
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