Lynn Fontanne

Lynn Fontanne was a celebrated English actress of the 20th century.

She was a central figure in both London and New York theater. Her career spanned many decades and various styles of drama. She is most famous for her lifelong professional partnership with her husband. Together, they became one of the most iconic acting duos in history. They were widely recognized by the name "The Lunts."

Fontanne's journey began with formal training under the famous actress Ellen Terry.

She started in small roles, such as the chorus in the pantomime Cinderella. She also worked as a non-speaking extra, known as a "walk-on." By 1912, she played Gertrude Rhead in the play Milestones. This role required her to portray one character across three stages of life. This performance impressed the American star Laurette Taylor. Taylor later became a vital mentor who helped foster Fontanne's growing career.

In 1922, Fontanne married the American actor Alfred Lunt.

Their marriage transformed the landscape of Broadway and the West End. They joined the Theatre Guild, a company known for innovative productions. The Lunts developed a specific, naturalistic style of acting. They practiced a technique where actors spoke while others were still talking. This method made their scenes feel more vivid and real to audiences. This approach broke the traditional conventions of the time.

Their theatrical work can be divided into several distinct styles. They were highly skilled in light, stylish comedies. They often worked with writers like Noël Coward and S. N. Behrman. However, they also tackled demanding experimental dramas. For example, Fontanne performed in Eugene O'Neill's Strange Interlude in 1928. They also performed classical works, such as The Taming of the Shrew in 1935. This versatility allowed them to appeal to many different types of theatergoers.

A major turning point occurred in 1928 with the play Caprice.

This production was a milestone for their professional partnership. It was the first time the actors themselves were the main attraction. Following this success, the couple decided to always appear on stage together. They also shared a strong commitment to touring their productions. They traveled to remote locations to ensure people outside New York could see Broadway hits. They believed playwrights deserved to have their work seen by as many people as possible.

The couple achieved massive commercial success with Noël Coward's Design for Living in 1932.

This comedy featured Fontanne in a role that switched between two men. The play broke box-office records and earned the stars very high salaries. This success was a rare moment of perfect alignment between popularity and risqué subject matter. While they had one major failure with the serious drama Point Valaine, their reputation remained strong. They were among the most respected performers on both sides of the Atlantic.

During the Second World War, Fontanne and Lunt made a significant move. At Fontanne's request, they moved to England to be with family and friends.

They performed in the West End during these difficult years. They also toured army camps in France and Germany in 1945 to perform for the troops. This period showed their dedication to their community and their craft. Even during a global conflict, they continued to bring theater to those who needed it.

In their later years, the Lunts lived at their country estate in Wisconsin.

The home was called Ten Chimneys and served as a social hub for theater colleagues. They eventually retired from the stage in 1960. Fontanne lived until the age of 95, passing away in 1983. She outlived Alfred Lunt by six years. Her legacy remains tied to the evolution of modern, naturalistic acting.