Anita Colby, a woman of remarkable versatility and multifaceted talents, was born Anita Counihan on a warm summer day, August 5, 1914, in the nation's capital, Washington, D.C. Her father, Bud Counihan, a renowned cartoonist, was a prominent figure within New York City's vibrant artistic and journalistic communities, leaving an indelible mark on the city's cultural landscape.
Early in her career, Anita established herself as a successful model, earning widespread recognition and the nickname "The Face" due to her striking features and captivating presence. Her modeling career was marked by significant success, as she secured lucrative contracts and commanded a hefty fee of $50 per hour, which was the highest rate in the industry at the time, a testament to her exceptional talent and marketability.
Colby's extensive modeling career was marked by an abundance of prominent billboard and advertisement appearances, with a significant proportion of these featuring iconic cigarette brands. Her striking facial features and captivating on-camera presence made her a highly sought-after model, ultimately earning her widespread recognition and transforming her into a household name.
Despite an inauspicious start to her film acting career, marked by a series of relatively minor roles in low-budget motion pictures, Colby's unwavering commitment to her craft and unrelenting perseverance ultimately compelled her to relocate back to New York City during the late 1930s.
It wasn't until the 1940s that Colby's acting career, which had previously experienced a decline, began to flourish once more. Her impressive range and versatility as an actress were showcased in a series of notable film roles, including the critically acclaimed "Brute Force" in 1947. Furthermore, her starring role in the 1944 film "Cover Girl" proved to be a pivotal moment in her career, as she embarked on a nationwide advertising campaign for the movie. This multifaceted promotional effort not only showcased her talents as an actress but also helped to revive her standing in the competitive world of Hollywood.
During the 1940s, Colby received a prestigious invitation from renowned film producer David O. Selznick to assume the esteemed role of Feminine Director at his prestigious production company, Selznick International Pictures.
In this capacity, she collaborated intimately with a distinguished array of leading ladies, comprising the talents of Jennifer Jones, Ingrid Bergman, Shirley Temple, Dorothy McGuire, and Joan Fontaine.
Throughout her tenure, Colby leveraged her profound expertise to share valuable insights on beauty, poise, and publicity with these prominent actresses, fostering a deeper understanding of the multifaceted demands of stardom.
Colby's multifaceted creative pursuits transcended the realm of entertainment, as she embarked on a journey of innovation, yielding a groundbreaking invention that would leave a lasting impact on the world. In 1952, Colby filed a patent application for a revolutionary chair that could be transformed into an inclined bed, a design that would ultimately be granted U.S. patent 2690209 in 1954.
This ingenious invention, born from Colby's creative genius, aimed to provide a more comfortable and practical solution for individuals grappling with mobility issues. By conceiving a chair that could effortlessly convert into an inclined bed, Colby's design sought to improve the quality of life for those who required assistance with mobility, thereby enhancing their overall well-being and independence.
Through her pioneering work, Colby demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of accessibility and comfort, her invention serving as a testament to her dedication to improving the lives of others. As a testament to her innovative spirit, Colby's chair-inclined-bed design has stood the test of time, remaining a beacon of ingenuity and a symbol of the profound impact that one person can have on the world.
Colby's profound devotion to the Roman Catholic faith was a defining characteristic that persisted throughout the entirety of her life, serving as a constant and unwavering anchor amidst life's turbulent currents. Her commitment to her beliefs was absolute, and she remained steadfast in her practice of the faith until the very end of her life, a testament to the enduring power of her spiritual convictions.
Anita Colby's life, marked by a multitude of accomplishments and passions, was tragically cut short due to the relentless progression of lung disease, ultimately resulting in her passing at the tender age of 77 on March 27, 1992.
