Jean Harlow (born Harlean Harlow Carpenter; March 3, 1911 – June 7, 1937) was an American film actress and sex symbol of the 1930s. After being signed by director Howard Hughes, her first major appearance was in Hell's Angels (1930). She later signed with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in 1932 and became a leading lady, starring in hit films such as Red Dust (1932), Dinner at Eight (1933), Reckless (1935), and Suzy (1936). Her frequent co-stars included William Powell, Spencer Tracy, and Clark Gable.
By the late 1930s, Harlow's popularity surpassed that of Joan Crawford and Norma Shearer, earning nicknames like the "Blond Bombshell" and the "Platinum Blonde." She was known for her "Laughing Vamp" persona. Harlow died at age 26 during the filming of Saratoga in 1937, which was completed with doubles and released shortly after her death. The American Film Institute ranked her as the 22nd greatest female star of classic Hollywood cinema.
United States
