Joyce Jameson was a talented actress known for her portrayal of "broads," "dames," and dizzy blondes, often typecast alongside Barbara Nichols. In reality, she was a highly intelligent and well-read graduate of UCLA's theatre arts program, defying her screen persona.
Born in Chicago in 1927, Joyce Kingsley began her acting career in 1951 after being discovered by Steve Allen at the Cabaret Club. She had already gained experience on stage, performing in musical revues and playing multiple roles in shows produced by her then-husband and mentor, Billy Barnes.
Jameson's career gained momentum in the late 1950s, with notable appearances in films like Billy Wilder's The Apartment (1960). She showcased her impressive skills in dialects and mimicry on The Tonight Show Starring Jack Paar (1957),featuring a ventriloquist act with her imaginary dummy, Marilyn.
Jameson's biting impersonations of Judy Garland, Grace Kelly, and Marlene Dietrich were particularly renowned. She may be most remembered for her roles in Roger Corman's cult Gothic horrors, including Tales of Terror (1962) and The Comedy of Terrors (1963).
On television, Jameson had a recurring role on The Andy Griffith Show (1960) and guest-starred in various classic series, including westerns and science fiction. Despite her comedic talents, she struggled to escape her typecasting, often being cast as the dumb or victimized blonde.
