Frances Farmer

Biography

Frances Elena Farmer was a pioneering American actress who began her career on stage at the University of Washington before signing with Paramount Pictures at 22. She co-led in Bing Crosby's musical Rhythm on the Range (1936) and later appeared in notable Broadway productions, including Clifford Odets's Golden Boy and Elia Kazan's plays. Her struggles with depression and mental health ultimately led to a five-year involuntary commitment to a state-run institution, leaving a lasting impact on her legacy.