Jane Baxter, a celebrated and accomplished stage and film actress, left an indelible mark on the London theatre scene, enthralling audiences with her remarkable talent and captivating stage presence.
Noted for her outstanding performances, she was a favorite among critics and audiences alike, with Winston Churchill, a great admirer, praising her as "that charming lady who embodies all that is finest in British womanhood".
Throughout her illustrious career, spanning over five decades, Jane Baxter is most famously remembered for her iconic role in the classic thriller "Dial M For Murder", alongside the esteemed Michael Redgrave, who affectionately described her as "every undergraduate's ideal of an English rose", a testament to her enduring appeal and timeless charm.
Jane Baxter's life began with her birth as Fedora Kathleen Alice Forde in Germany, a country that would not remain her place of residence for long. As a child, she relocated to London, a city that would become her home and the backdrop for the pursuit of her passion for acting. She enrolled at the prestigious Italia Conti Stage School, where she honed her craft and laid the foundation for a successful career in the performing arts.
Jane's West End debut arrived at the tender age of 13, a milestone that marked the beginning of her illustrious career in the entertainment industry. Her early start in the musical comedy "Love's Prisoner" was a significant achievement, showcasing her talent and dedication to her craft.
As she continued to grow and develop as an actress, Jane received valuable guidance from the esteemed playwright J.M. Barrie. His advice led her to adopt the stage name Jane Baxter, a choice that would become synonymous with her career.
In 1938, Jane took the lead in the hit comedy "A Damsel in Distress", a role that cemented her status as a rising star in the theatre world. This performance solidified her position as a talented and versatile actress, paving the way for future successes and a long-lasting legacy in the world of entertainment.
Jane Baxter, a renowned and accomplished actress, left an indelible mark on the world of theatre, gracing the esteemed West End stages with a multitude of productions that showcased her exceptional talent and versatility. Among her most notable performances was her starring role in the critically acclaimed play "George and Margaret", which enjoyed a remarkable two-year run, captivating audiences with its witty dialogue and poignant storyline.
In addition to her impressive work on the stage, Baxter also made a significant impact on the silver screen, appearing in a range of films that further demonstrated her remarkable range and ability to adapt to different roles. One of her most notable cinematic endeavors was her starring role in the 1934 drama "We Live Again", where she shared the screen with the legendary actor Fredric March, bringing to life the complex and emotional story of the film.
Baxter's subsequent film appearance, in the 1935 psychological thriller "The Clairvoyant", alongside the talented Claude Rains, showcased her ability to convey a sense of mystery and intrigue, as she brought to life the enigmatic character of the film.
In the year 1935, Jane Baxter embarked on a significant chapter in her illustrious career by joining the esteemed repertory company at the Liverpool Playhouse, where she had the privilege of collaborating with the exceptionally gifted Michael Redgrave, whose initial reservations about her arrival were soon replaced with admiration for her remarkable acting abilities.
As their professional relationship blossomed, Jane Baxter and Michael Redgrave developed a profound and lasting bond, one that transcended the boundaries of mere colleagues and culminated in a deeply personal connection, with Jane Baxter ultimately being honored with the distinguished role of godmother to Michael Redgrave's daughter, the celebrated actress Vanessa Redgrave.
Jane Baxter's remarkable career in the 1960s spanned both the silver screen and the theatre, ultimately culminating in her last notable London stage appearance in John Mortimer's poignant drama "A Voyage Round My Father", where she shared the stage with the esteemed Michael Redgrave.
This final stage performance, which took place at the prestigious Churchill Theatre in Bromley, marked the end of her illustrious stage career, which was brought to a close with a thrilling appearance in the 1978 production of "Assault", alongside the renowned Richard Todd.
Over a decade later, in 1992, Jane Baxter made a memorable guest appearance at the iconic London Palladium, where she received a well-deserved standing ovation for her participation in the heartfelt tribute "A Tribute to Evelyn Laye".
As Jane Baxter's life drew to a close, she made a poignant request, one that reflected her humble and unassuming nature, that no formal memorial service be held in her honor. Instead, she wished for a gathering of dear friends and loved ones to take place at her local church in the charming neighborhood of Wimbledon, nestled in the heart of South London. This intimate and informal celebration would serve as a fitting tribute to her life and legacy. On the day of the gathering, the church was filled with the warmth and camaraderie of those who had been touched by Jane's kindness and generosity. Among those who attended was the renowned film director Bryan Forbes, who felt deeply compelled to pay his respects to this remarkable woman. With a heavy heart and a deep sense of admiration, Forbes delivered a heartfelt address, one that eloquently captured the essence of Jane's spirit and the profound impact she had on all those who knew her.
