Here is the biography of June Preston:
June Preston was a Hollywood child star who later became a renowned opera singer. Born in Glendale, California, she made her screen debut at the age of 4 and went on to appear in numerous films, including "Anne of Green Gables," "Christmas in July," "Maytime," and "Second Fiddle." She was under contract with RKO Film Studios and was considered one of the "Big Pay Babes" in Hollywood alongside Shirley Temple and Virginia Weidler.
Preston's film career spanned over a decade, during which she worked under contract with various studios, including Paramount, MGM, Universal Studios, Warner Bros., and Republic Pictures. She also had a successful merchandising career, with her name being trademarked on various products, including apparel lines, toys, and dolls.
After leaving the film industry, Preston pursued a career in opera. She was discovered by maestro Gustavo Stern, a German conductor who had recently moved to Seattle, Washington. Under his guidance, Preston developed her vocal skills and went on to perform with the Seattle Civic Light Opera Company, the Metropolitan Opera, and other prestigious opera houses around the world.
Preston's opera career took her to Europe, where she performed in many of the continent's most famous opera houses, including the Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires, the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City, and the Teatro Nacional de São Carlos in Lisbon. She was known for her powerful voice and her ability to perform a wide range of repertoire, from classical operas to concert recitals.
Preston married Belgian soloist concert violinist Saul Hoüben, and they had one child together. She retired from touring after her husband's passing in 1982 and went on to perform occasional concert recitals for benefits and friends. In 1989, she was inducted into the WSHS Hall of Fame for her film and opera career. Preston passed away at the age of 93 from complications of dementia, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most talented and accomplished performers of her generation.
