Jane Withers passed away at 95 years old on August 7th. Though she did not star with Ann Blyth, the two were devoted friends. Jane appeared on an episode of This is Your Life in 1959 that paid tribute to Ann, and Ann appeared on an A&E episode of Biography that paid tribute to Jane Withers in 2003, that was probably one of Ann's last television appearances. Jane was also one of Ann's bridesmaids.
From my Ann Blyth: Actress. Singer. Star.:
Jane Withers recalled in author Daniel Bubbeo’s The Women of Warner Brothers:
“There was a regular group of us, Ann (Blyth), Diana Lynn and Joan, who would get together and go to the movies…since I had a convertible, I would drive everyone. We’d get some fast food and take it with us to the theater. We’d usually call the manager ahead of time to let him know we were coming. The balconies would be closed off for other people, and when we would get there, they’d open it up for us and we could eat by ourselves. It was just a lot of fun.”
Jane, on that episode of the This is Your Life tribute to Ann Blyth, "between clinches and tearful kisses, she recounted picnics and shopping with her pal,
“She’s the kind of friend every girl dreams of having.”
My deep sympathy and condolences to all the loved ones of Jane Withers who will mourn this dear lady's passing. See my Another Old Movie Blog for a tribute to Jane.
For more on Ann Blyth's career on stage and screen, television and radio, have a look at my book on Ann's career -- Ann Blyth: Actress. Singer. Star.
For more on my other books and plays, please see my website: JacquelineTLynch.com
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