Frances Upton, a truly extraordinary and gifted actress and comedienne, left a lasting and profound impact on the entertainment industry, specifically during the 1920s and 1930s, where she consistently demonstrated her remarkable ability to excel in a wide range of roles, thereby solidifying her reputation as a talented and versatile performer.
Noted for her remarkable and storied career, which was marked by a plethora of prestigious productions, she distinguished herself with standout performances in the legendary "Ziegfeld Follies of 1928", a majestic revue that perfectly encapsulated the very essence of 1920s opulence and entertainment, a spectacle that remains an indelible mark on the annals of American theatrical history.
Frances Upton's remarkable career showcased her extraordinary versatility as a performer, with a notable highlight being her starring role alongside the incomparable Eddie Cantor in the extremely popular and critically acclaimed musical comedy "Whoopee". This prestigious collaboration demonstrated her remarkable talent and ability to maintain her own spotlight alongside some of the most renowned and accomplished artists of her era, a testament to her remarkable range and adaptability as a performer.
Frances Upton's illustrious career was marked by an astonishing versatility, as she seamlessly navigated a wide range of creative endeavors, effortlessly bridging the gaps between diverse genres and roles, thereby solidifying her reputation as a cherished and esteemed figure within the entertainment industry.
Frances, a multifaceted performer of remarkable versatility, chose to augment her already impressive theatrical resume by venturing beyond the confines of Broadway to tread the boards in the prestigious "George White's Scandals" revues, a storied series of spectacular entertainment productions that provided a platform for the most talented and accomplished artists of the era to shine in all their glory.
Frances, a pioneering luminary in the realm of broadcasting, etched her name in the annals of history by being prominently showcased in a revolutionary 1929 NBC network shortwave radio broadcast, which astonishingly transmitted to Admiral Byrd's esteemed expedition as it ventured into the unforgiving and breathtakingly remote landscape of the South Pole, a feat that marked a significant milestone in the evolution of broadcasting technology and cemented Frances' status as a trailblazing figure in the industry.
Frances made a significant appearance in one of the groundbreaking experiments in television broadcasting, which occurred in the vibrant city of New York City in the year 1931. This extraordinary event brought together a diverse group of skilled performers, featuring the celebrated actress Gertrude Lawrence, the distinguished actor Lionel Atwill, and the powerful boxer Primo Carnera.
Frances, a multifaceted thespian of remarkable talent, did not restrict her artistic pursuits solely to the realm of acting, as she was also an incredibly prolific writer, boasting a staggering output of literary works that rivaled her impressive stage presence and commanding attention. During her time as a member of the prestigious Ziegfeld Follies, Frances was said to have penned at least two captivating mystery novels, thereby showcasing her versatility and unwavering dedication to her craft.
Person Biography:
Frances was born into a family of modest means, where her early years were marked by a strong sense of resilience and determination. Despite facing numerous challenges, Frances's innate creativity and passion for the arts led her to pursue a career in the entertainment industry. She quickly gained recognition for her exceptional acting skills, which earned her a spot as a performer in the esteemed Ziegfeld Follies.
As her career continued to flourish, Frances's writing talents began to surface, and she went on to author multiple novels, including two captivating mystery novels. Her remarkable output and versatility only added to her growing reputation, solidifying her position as a talented and multifaceted thespian.
Throughout her life, Frances remained committed to her craft, continuously pushing the boundaries of her creative potential. Her unwavering dedication and passion for the arts earned her the respect and admiration of her peers, cementing her place as a true pioneer in the world of entertainment.
Frances's family heritage is deeply rooted in a rich tapestry of illustrious service and extraordinary achievement, with her father, Francis Upton, boasting an impressive record of recognition and respect as a New York City detective of the highest caliber. Notably, Francis Upton had the remarkable distinction of bringing to justice associates of Charles Becker, a notorious figure who was ultimately convicted and sentenced to death for his involvement in the infamous 1912 murder of Herman Rosenthal, a prominent figure in the city's gambling underworld.
Francis Upton's remarkable tenure in law enforcement was marked by a plethora of significant accomplishments, one of which being a particularly notable arrest that showcased his exceptional skill and tenacity in upholding the law.
However, his impressive law enforcement career was not solely defined by this notable arrest, as he also had the distinction of proudly serving his country during the tumultuous years of World War I. This period of service not only demonstrated his unwavering commitment to public service, but also highlighted his unshakeable dedication to the noble profession of law enforcement.
Throughout his career, Francis Upton consistently demonstrated a deep sense of duty and responsibility, always striving to uphold the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and service to his community. His impressive achievements in law enforcement, coupled with his distinguished military service, have left an indelible mark on the profession, and his legacy continues to inspire and motivate future generations of law enforcement professionals.
Frances's grandfather, William Cleary Upton, was a man of extraordinary literary passion and fervent nationalism, being the creative force behind the provocative and thought-provoking novel "Uncle Pat's Cabin", a sprawling and sweeping narrative that courageously shed light on the arduous struggles and hardships endured by Irish tenant farmers during the tumultuous 1880s, a period characterized by profound social and economic upheaval, marked by intense conflict and transformation.
Frances, a renowned and influential figure in the entertainment industry, made the extraordinary and unexpected decision to abandon her illustrious career in the public eye in the year 1933, opting instead to devote herself to a life of domestic tranquility and matrimony with deBenneville "Bert" Bell, a successful and respected businessman from Philadelphia.
In a remarkable display of entrepreneurial spirit and financial acumen, Frances provided the necessary funds for Bert to acquire the Philadelphia Eagles NFL franchise, a move that would ultimately lead to Bert's tenure as the franchise's owner and operator until the year 1940.
Bert's business ventures, however, did not cease with his ownership of the Philadelphia Eagles. He went on to become a highly esteemed and influential figure in the world of professional football, serving as the commissioner of the National Football League from 1946 until his passing in the year 1959.
