Anne Whitfield
It has just been announced by her family today, that Anne Whitfield, who graced radio waves, television screens, and the silver screen, passed away on February 15, 2024, at the age of 85.
Though her name might not be instantly recognizable to modern audiences - or even to many of us old time radio enthusiasts - over the years, I have seen and heard Anne Whitfield's name in the credits of hundreds and hundreds of radio shows. Her presence graced screens and airwaves for decades.
She was, perhaps, best known for her role in the holiday classic White Christmas, but she had a fascinating and extensive career that began well before the silver screen.
In fact, Anne's first forays into the world of entertainment came through the golden age of radio, where she established herself as a child star with an impressive resume.
Her radio debut came at the tender age of seven in September 1945. Her first role wasn't dramatic, but it set the stage for a long and diverse career. Stepping up to the microphone, she simply uttered the line, "I want another slice of bread" for a commercial. Soon after, she landed a recurring role on the long-running soap opera One Man's Family, playing the character of Penny Lacey.
Anne's talent and youthful charm quickly caught the attention of radio producers. She became a regular on numerous popular programs, including Lux Radio Theatre, the Screen Directors' Playhouse and Family Theater. Her youthful voice brought life to a variety of characters, from comedic roles like the snobbish Pamela Richardson on Baby Snooks, and Harriet Conklin in Our Miss Brooks, to more serious parts in dramas for Cavalcade of America, and Hallmark Playhouse.
In fact, when you look at the radio credits on her RUSC Star's page, there's barely a series that Anne Whitfield didn't play a part in at some time in her radio career!
Perhaps her most notable radio role came in 1946 though, when at the age of eight, she became a regular on The Phil Harris-Alice Faye Show, playing the couple's fictionalized younger daughter, Phyllis. This role not only showcased her comedic timing but also provided the opportunity to work alongside established Hollywood stars, further solidifying her place in the radio world.
The golden age of radio served as the launchpad for her to the burgeoning world of television, where she appeared in numerous shows, including One Step Beyond, Perry Mason, and Rawhide.
Whether gracing the radio waves or the silver screen, Anne Whitfield possessed a certain charm and presence that resonated with viewers, and although she retired from acting in 1976 - leaving Hollywood for the peace and tranquility of Washington state, she then worked tirelessly as an environmental activist, working right up until the day she passed away.
