Ann Pennington's life journey began in Wilmington, Delaware, a city steeped in a rich tapestry of history and cultural heritage, where she was born to a family of Quakers who, in her early childhood, relocated to Camden, New Jersey, setting the stage for the formative years that would shape her future. As she grew, Ann's fascination with dance gradually evolved into a burning passion, which would ultimately become the defining thread of her professional path. Under the guidance of the illustrious ballerina Catherine Littlefield, she honed her craft, laying the foundation for a career that would eventually take her to the bright lights of Broadway.
Ann's career received a significant boost in 1913 when she was welcomed as a member of the renowned Ziegfeld Follies, a prestigious theatrical production renowned for its captivating entertainment. As a prominent performer within the show, Ann swiftly gained widespread popularity among audiences, largely owing to her striking physical attributes, including her remarkable long, vibrant red hair and toned legs. Her distinctive nickname, "The Girl With The Dimpled Knees," became an integral part of her public persona, fostering a deep affection for her among spectators from all walks of life.
During her tenure with the Follies, Ann developed a lasting and meaningful friendship with fellow dancer Fanny Brice, with whom she shared numerous unforgettable experiences both on and off stage.
Ann's journey into the world of cinema commenced in the year 1916, as she made her debut in the silent film Susie Snowflake, a milestone that marked the beginning of her foray into the realm of movie magic. Subsequently, she went on to star in a trifecta of cinematic endeavors, namely The Rainbow Princess, The Antics of Ann, and Sunshine Nan, each of which showcased her burgeoning talent and versatility as a performer.
Prior to her foray into the world of filmmaking, Ann had spent six illustrious years as a member of the esteemed Follies, a vaudeville extravaganza that showcased the talents of a diverse array of performers. It was during this period that she honed her craft, developing a range of skills that would serve her well in her future endeavors.
However, Ann's time with the Follies eventually came to a close, and she went on to join the ranks of George's White's Scandals, a prestigious theatrical production that boasted a reputation for excellence. It was during her time with this esteemed organization that she met the show's producer, George White, with whom she would go on to develop a romantic connection.
In addition to her professional pursuits, Ann's social calendar was also filled with a variety of high-profile engagements, including dates with notable figures such as actor Buster West and boxer Jack Dempsey. These encounters not only provided her with opportunities to network and build relationships within the entertainment industry but also allowed her to experience the thrill of being a part of the glamorous and fast-paced world of Hollywood's Golden Age.
Ann's subsequent significant career advancement was marked by the groundbreaking introduction of the Black Bottom Dance to the esteemed Broadway audiences, a bold and pioneering move that further solidified her reputation as a trailblazing figure in the realm of entertainment.
Beyond the glamour of the spotlight, Ann's persona was characterized by her sharp intellect, her open-handed nature, and her insatiable thirst for excitement, which often led her to take bold risks, such as indulging in the thrill of betting on horse racing.
In 1929, Ann's cinematic career reached new heights as she appeared in no less than five films, including the notable "Tanned Legs" and "Gold Diggers Of Broadway", further cementing her status as a bona fide Hollywood icon.
Yet, as the 1930s dawned, Ann's popularity began to gradually wane, and she made the strategic decision to transition her focus from the silver screen to the world of vaudeville, where she could continue to entertain and captivate audiences in a different yet equally captivating way.
Ann's grand finale on the stage occurred in 1946, as she participated in a benefit show for the Armed Forces, thereby bringing to a close her remarkable and illustrious career in the entertainment industry.
In her later years, Ann devoted her time to socializing with friends, engaging in various charitable endeavors, and maintaining a relatively low public profile.
When interview requests would come her way, she would often decline, expressing a preference to be remembered as she was during the peak of her career, rather than allowing her public image to be tarnished by the passage of time.
Ann Pennington left this mortal coil on November 4, 1971, at the ripe age of seventy-seven, due to complications arising from a stroke.
Her final resting place is Kensico Cemetery in Valhalla, New York, where she lies in repose, leaving behind a lasting legacy that continues to captivate and delight audiences to this very day.
