Judy Pace, a renowned actress, was often referred to as one of the most beautiful women to ever appear on screen. During the 1970s, she was the epitome of black beauty, but her beauty was not limited to her race. She was a talented actress, with a presence that was always welcoming, warm, and innocent.
Born and raised in Los Angeles, California, Judy Pace came from a humble upbringing. She attended Los Angeles City College, where she majored in sociology, and later became a model, taught by her sister. Her modeling career took off when she joined the prestigious Ebony Fashion Fair, becoming the youngest model for the show.
Judy's big break came when director William Castle saw her pictures in Ebony magazine and chose her for a part in his film, 13 Frightened Girls (1963). She received favorable reviews and showed great potential as an actress. She then began taking acting classes and performing in L.A. theater, leading to small parts on television and films.
Judy's success continued with her role in Three in the Attic (1968),where she played one of three femme fatales who band together to turn the tables on a white gigolo. This film was one of Hollywood's first interracial love/sex movies. Judy's performance was daring, enticing, and erotic, making her a standout in the film industry.
The 1970s were a defining era for Judy, with her role in Cotton Comes to Harlem (1970) marking the start of the blaxploitation era. The film was an all-star cast, with Godfrey Cambridge, Raymond St. Jacques, Redd Foxx, Cleavon Little, and Calvin Lockhart, directed by the legendary Ossie Davis.
Judy's versatility as an actress was evident in her ability to play both sweet and innocent, as well as evil and femme fatale. She made audiences understand her characters and have a little heart for them. Her roles in movies and TV shows, such as Sanford and Son (1972),Good Times (1974),That's My Mama (1974),and What's Happening!! (1976),left a lasting impression on viewers.
Judy's prime years were in her 30s during the 1970s, but she still flaunted youthful beauty and zest. She went on to conquer the stage, starring in the well-acclaimed Las Vegas production of "Guys and Dolls," a black version of the classic musical.
Throughout her career, Judy broke the color line in TV and Hollywood, paving the way for future black actresses. She was the first to do many things that helped her predecessors, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of actresses.
