Ruth Gordon

Ruth Gordon
Gordon in 1930
Born
Ruth Gordon Jones

(1896-10-30)October 30, 1896
DiedAugust 28, 1985(1985-08-28) (aged 88)
Occupations
  • Actress
  • playwright
  • screenwriter
Years active1915–1985
Spouses
Gregory Kelly
(m. 1921; died 1927)
(m. 1942)
Partner(s)Jed Harris
(1929 – c. 1930s)
Children1

Ruth Gordon Jones (October 30, 1896 – August 28, 1985) was an American actress, playwright and screenwriter. She began her career performing on Broadway at age 19. Known for her nasal voice and distinctive personality, Gordon gained international recognition and critical acclaim for film roles that continued into her 70s and 80s. Her later work included performances in Rosemary's Baby (1968), What Ever Happened to Aunt Alice? (1969), Where's Poppa? (1970), Harold and Maude (1971), Every Which Way but Loose (1978), Any Which Way You Can (1980), and My Bodyguard (1980).

In addition to her acting career, Gordon wrote numerous plays, film scripts, and books, most notably co-writing the screenplay for the 1949 film Adam's Rib. Gordon won an Academy Award, a Primetime Emmy, and two Golden Globe Awards for her acting, as well as three Academy Award nominations for her writing.