Acting
Jeanne De Casalis
Jeanne de Casalis (22 May 1897 – 19 August 1966) was a British actress, born in Basutoland, who made significant contributions to stage, radio, television, and film. Originally named Jeanne Casalis de Pury, she received her education in France, where her father owned one of the country’s prominent corset companies, Charneaux.
Her professional journey began in music before transitioning to the theatrical scene in London. De Casalis showcased her talent in productions such as The Mask of Virtue alongside Vivien Leigh in 1935 and appeared in Agatha Christie’s The Hollow. She gained recognition through notable films, including Cottage to Let (1941) and Jamaica Inn (1939).
In June 1929, she married English actor Colin Clive, who is best remembered for his role in Frankenstein (1931). Their marriage later faced challenges, leading to estrangement prior to Clive’s death from tuberculosis on 25 June 1937. Jeanne's second marriage, around 1938, was to RAF Wing Commander Cowan Douglas Stephenson, with whom she resided at Hunger Hatch near Ashford, Kent.
Jeanne de Casalis passed away on 19 August 1966, leaving behind a legacy in the performing arts. At the time of her death, she was 69 years old.
