Born 27th February 1904, she was sophisticated, glamorous and charming; her appearances were a refreshing departure from the stereotype of black women perpetuated by Hollywood films of that time.
One of her best screen roles was Beulah (pictured), the nightclub owner and hostess, in Ealing's Dead of Night (1945).
Early in her career she was a popular Paris nightclub singer after performing in the revue "Lew Leslie's Blackbirds of 1928" and frequently played the Moulin Rouge. Her performances were notable as she introduced many songs which became popular standards over the years including "Charleston," "Stormy Weather," "Far Away in Shanty Town" and her "scandalous" signature song "Love for Sale."
Her other film appearances include Death at Broadcasting House (1934), Around the Town (1938), This Was Paris (1942), Oranges and Lemons (1949), Our Man in Havana (1959) and The Brockenstein Affair (1962).
During the late 1960’s she appeared in a regular spot as a Storyteller in the TV show Jackanory.
She died 15th July 2003.