Eleanor Geisman, who eventually gained fame as June Allyson, began her professional career in 1937 performing as a dancer in short subject films. Her trajectory moved from early roles in New York productions to a significant contract with MGM in 1943, where she secured a lasting reputation as an American film, stage, and television actor.
Early Obstacles and Recovery
Born in 1917 in The Bronx, Allyson faced severe adversity in 1925 when a falling tree branch left her with a fractured skull and a broken back. Doctors initially stated she would never walk again, leading to four years of confinement in a steel brace. Her eventual recovery allowed her to pursue dancing, leading to her enrollment in the Ned Wayburn Dancing Academy.
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Allyson left Theodore Roosevelt High School early to find work as a dancer. She appeared on Broadway in 1938, securing chorus roles in productions such as Sing Out the News and Very Warm for May. Her career progressed through short films with Educational Pictures and Vitaphone before she moved to Hollywood to join the MGM payroll for the 1943 film version of Best Foot Forward.
Success and Television Work
By the mid-1940s, Allyson established a popular screen persona, frequently appearing alongside actor Van Johnson. Her performance in the 1951 film Too Young to Kiss earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy. She later transitioned to television, hosting The DuPont Show with June Allyson on CBS from 1959 to 1961.
Later Years and Advocacy
In the 1970s, Allyson returned to the stage for roles in Forty Carats and No, No, Nanette. She published her autobiography, June Allyson by June Allyson, in 1982. Later in life, she established the June Allyson Foundation for Public Awareness and Medical Research to support studies into urological and gynecological conditions. Her final onscreen appearance occurred in 2001.
Fast facts
- Born: 1917, The Bronx
- Died: 2006, Ojai
- Golden Globe Award: 1952
- Henrietta Award: 1955
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star: 1960
- Education: Theodore Roosevelt High School; St. Catharine Academy
- Final onscreen appearance: 2001
- Burial site: Forest Lawn Memorial Park
Questions readers ask
What medical causes led to her death?
June Allyson died of respiratory failure and bronchitis in July 2006.
Which major television project did she host?
She hosted and starred in her own anthology series, The DuPont Show with June Allyson, between 1959 and 1961.
Achievements
- Golden Globe Awards — 1952
- Worked as film actor, dancer and stage actor
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