“Mary Poppins” Star Glynis Johns Turns 100, Becoming the Oldest Living Actress

Actress Glynis Johns celebrated her 100th birthday recently, making her not only the oldest living actress but also the oldest living Disney legend. The Mary Poppins famed actress took part in an interview and answered some burning questions about her life. Her witty remarks only made people admire her more!

A star with many talents

Glynis Margaret Payne Johns, a British retired actress, dancer, musician, and singer, has had a remarkable career spanning eight decades on both stage and screen. She was born on October 5, 1923, in Pretoria, South Africa, as the daughter of the well-known Welsh actor Mervyn Johns. Known for her extensive filmography and a range of accolades, she is recognized as one of the last surviving major stars from the Golden Age of Hollywood and the classical years of British cinema.

She achieved fame at a young age.

Glynis Johns began her journey in showbiz at a young age, establishing herself as a stage dancer from her early adolescence. Her first foray into film came in 1938 with South Riding. However, her breakthrough came in the 1940s, particularly with her role as Anna in the drama film 49th Parallel in 1941, earning her a National Board of Review Award for Best Acting. This success propelled her into starring roles in notable films like Miranda (1948) and Third Time Lucky (1949).

As her career advanced, Johns took on more roles in both British and American productions. Her filmography includes memorable performances in The Sword and the Rose (1953), The Weak and the Wicked (1954), The Court Jester (1955), The Sundowners (1960), and The Chapman Report (1962). She also starred in her own sitcom, Glynis, in 1963.

She is now the oldest living actress.

Residing in a senior living community in Los Angeles, California, Glynis Johns turned 100 years old on October 5, 2023, marking a century of her remarkable and enduring career. With her longevity and accomplishments, she holds the titles of the oldest living Academy Award nominee and Disney Legend, a testament to her enduring impact on the world of film and entertainment.

Glynis is still full of charms.

When asked how she feels about hitting the incredible milestone of 100 years, the actress revealed that it doesn’t make any difference to her. She also wittily pointed out that she looked good for every age. She also admits she loved doing her work, and felt good when she was applauded for her work in The Sundowners, for which she also received an Oscar nomination. When the interviewer told her that she would always be remembered for her work, Glynis replied saying that is what she hopes for.

Glynis got married four times.

Glynis Johns has been married four times. Her first husband was Anthony Forwood, whom she met while rehearsing for a play. They got married in London in 1942 and had a son named Gareth. They later divorced because of issues in their marriage. After that, she dated a producer named Antony Darnborough, and they were planning to have a big showbiz wedding, but it got postponed and eventually canceled. They remained friends.

In 1952, Glynis married David Foster, who was in the Royal Navy. They divorced in 1956. Her third marriage was to Cecil Henderson, a businessman. They got married in 1960 but divorced in 1962 due to his suspicion of her having an affair, which wasn’t proven. Her fourth and final marriage was to Elliott Arnold, a writer and an Air Force captain. They got engaged in 1964 and were married in Los Angeles, California. However, they divorced in 1973.

Just like Glynis Johns, there are stars who’ve had a long, successful career in Hollywood. Take a look at some of them here.