Jayne Meadows, born Jane Meadows Cotter on September 27, 1919, was a renowned American actress, author, and lecturer, whose illustrious career spanned numerous mediums, including stage, film, and television. With a remarkable longevity, she continued to work until her passing on April 26, 2015.
Meadows' impressive filmography includes iconic movies such as Undercurrent, Song of the Thin Man, David and Bathsheba, Lady in the Lake, and Enchantment, solidifying her status as a Hollywood legend.
Throughout her remarkable television career, Meadows made memorable appearances in various programs, including the 1953 Suspense episode F.O.B. Vienna, where she played the role of reporter Helen Brady. She was a regular panelist on the original version of I've Got a Secret and occasionally appeared on What's My Line?. Additionally, she graced the screens on the NBC interview program Here's Hollywood.
Prior to the passing of her husband, Steve Allen, in 2000, the couple made several television appearances together, showcasing their undeniable chemistry. In 1998, they played an argumentative elderly couple in an episode of Homicide: Life on the Street, and in 1999, they made their final joint TV appearance in the Diagnosis: Murder episode The Roast, which marked Steve Allen's final screen appearance. Her impressive repertoire also includes a notable appearance in the 1991 comedy film City Slickers.
Throughout her storied career, Meadows was nominated for three Emmy Awards, a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft. As the elder sister of actress and memoirist Audrey Meadows, she left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, inspiring generations of performers and writers.
