Jane Baxter, a renowned stage and film actress, was one of the most glamorous performers on the London stage, captivating audiences with her captivating presence and undeniable charm. Winston Churchill, an ardent admirer, once described her as "that charming lady who personifies all that is best in British womanhood," a testament to her enduring appeal and elegance.
Born Fedora Kathleen Alice Forde in Germany, Jane Baxter came to London as a child and studied acting at the prestigious Italia Conti Stage School. She made her West End debut at the tender age of 13 in the musical comedy "Love's Prisoner," and her early years on the stage were marked by a string of successful productions, including "A Damsel in Distress," which earned her widespread acclaim and cemented her status as a rising star.
As her career continued to flourish, Jane Baxter became known for her versatility and range, effortlessly transitioning between stage and screen with ease. Her notable film credits include "We Live Again" (1934),"The Clairvoyant" (1935),and "Dial M For Murder" (1954),in which she co-starred with the dashing Michael Redgrave, who famously described her as "every undergraduate's ideal of an English rose."
Jane Baxter's professional relationship with Michael Redgrave was a long and fruitful one, and she went on to appear alongside him in numerous productions, including a stint at the Liverpool Playhouse, where he was the leading actor. He was initially apprehensive about her arrival, expecting a spoiled and temperamental film star, but was instead delighted by her talent, charm, and dedication.
Throughout her illustrious career, Jane Baxter enjoyed significant success on both stage and screen, earning critical acclaim and commercial success with a wide range of productions. Her final London stage role was in John Mortimer's "A Voyage Round My Father," opposite Michael Redgrave, and her last stage appearance was in the thriller "Assault" at the Churchill Theatre, Bromley, in 1978.
In her later years, Jane Baxter made occasional guest appearances, including a well-received turn at the London Palladium in "A Tribute to Evelyn Laye" in 1992. Her final public appearance was a testament to her enduring popularity and the immense respect with which she was held by her peers and fans alike.
In her will, Jane Baxter requested a private gathering of friends at her local church in Wimbledon, South London, rather than a formal memorial service, a fitting tribute to her humility and discretion. Film director Bryan Forbes gave the address at the intimate gathering, a poignant reminder of the impact she had on the lives of those who knew and loved her.
