Glynis Johns, the beloved actress known for her role as Mrs. Banks in the timeless film Mary Poppins, has passed away at the age of 100. She was a versatile and husky-voiced star whose career spanned an impressive eight decades, making her one of the last surviving actors from Hollywood’s Golden Age.
Born in Pretoria, South Africa on October 5, 1923, Glynis Johns was the daughter of Welsh actor Mervyn Johns. Raised in England, she began her journey in the world of performance at a young age, showing early success as a ballet prodigy. She later made her big screen debut in 1938 and went on to star in numerous British and American films, including 49th Parallel, The Sword and the Rose, The Court Jester, and The Sundowners, which earned her an Oscar nomination.
However, it was her role as the suffragette mother in the iconic 1964 Disney film Mary Poppins that truly solidified her place in cinematic history. Her performance in the movie, which included the memorable tune “Sister Suffragette,” won her a Laurel Award and contributed to the film’s success at the Oscars.
In addition to her film career, Glynis Johns excelled on the stage. Her most noteworthy stage performance was in the original cast of Stephen Sondheim’s musical A Little Night Music, where she played the role of Desiree Armfeldt. Her incredible portrayal earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical, and she originated one of Broadway’s most recognizable showtunes: “Send in the Clowns.” Stephen Sondheim himself composed this famous song specifically for Glynis Johns, showcasing her ability to excel as both an actress and a singer.
Throughout her career, Glynis Johns was known for her dedication to her craft and her perfectionist approach. She believed in making her characters as realistic and genuine as possible, stating that “the whole point of first-class acting is to make a reality of it.” Her commitment to her artistry was evident in her performances on both screen and stage.
As the years went on, Glynis Johns continued to act, appearing in popular sitcoms like Cheers and films such as The Ref, While You Were Sleeping, and Superstar, which marked her final screen role. In recent years, she held the distinction of being Britain’s oldest living stage and screen star, as well as the oldest living Academy Award-nominated actor, after the passing of Olivia De Havilland in 2020.
Although Glynis Johns never received the damehood that her family campaigned for, she will forever be remembered as a multi-talented icon and one of the last remaining legends of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Her brilliance shone brightly for a century, leaving behind a legacy of incredible performances. Today, we mourn the loss of this extraordinary talent but also celebrate the remarkable contributions she made to the world of entertainment.
Rest in peace, Glynis Johns. Your incredible performances will forever be cherished and remembered.
