Kathryn Crosby, actress and widow of Bing Crosby, dies at 90

Kathryn Crosby, the talented actress known for her roles in classic films such as “The 7th Voyage of Sinbad,” “Anatomy of a Murder,” and “Operation Mad Ball,” has passed away at the age of 90. She died of natural causes at her home in Hillsborough, Northern California, on Friday night, as confirmed by a family spokesperson.

Born Olive Kathryn Grandstaff on November 25, 1933, in West Columbia, Texas, Kathryn graduated from the University of Texas with a degree in fine arts. She began her Hollywood career in 1953, quickly making a name for herself in the film industry.

Under her stage name, Kathryn Grant, she appeared alongside notable actors such as Tony Curtis in “Mister Cory” in 1957 and Victor Mature in “The Big Circus” in 1959. In her career, she collaborated with acclaimed film noir director Phil Karlson on five projects, including “Tight Spot” and “The Phenix City Story,” both released in 1955.

Some of her other significant roles included performances with Jack Lemmon in “Operation Mad Ball,” James Darren in “The Brothers Rico,” and James Stewart in “Anatomy of a Murder,” a film directed by Otto Preminger.

Kathryn met Bing Crosby while conducting interviews for a column she wrote for her hometown newspaper. Their marriage took place in 1957 when she was just 23 years old, and he was 54. After tying the knot, she chose to reduce her acting commitments, although she frequently appeared with Bing and their three children in his Christmas television specials and in Minute Maid orange juice commercials.

In addition to her film career, Kathryn transitioned into a career in nursing, becoming a registered nurse in 1963. Throughout the 1970s, she hosted a morning talk show on KPIX-TV in Northern California, further showcasing her versatility and public engagement skills.

After Bing Crosby’s death at the age of 74 in 1977 due to a heart attack suffered while golfing in Spain, Kathryn returned to the stage. She participated in productions such as “Same Time, Next Year” and “Charley’s Aunt.” In 1996, she co-starred with John Davidson and Andrea McArdle in the Broadway revival of “State Fair.”

Her vibrant presence in the golfing community was evident; she hosted the Crosby National golf tournament in Bermuda Run, North Carolina, for 16 years, concluding in 2001.

Kathryn is survived by her children: Harry, Mary, who is famous for her role in the TV show “Dallas,” and Nathaniel, an accomplished amateur golfer. She was previously married to Maurice Sullivan for a decade before he tragically lost his life in a car accident in 2010, an incident that also caused serious injuries to Kathryn.

As a beloved figure in both film and television, Kathryn Crosby leaves behind a legacy marked by her contributions to the entertainment industry and her dedication to her family. She will be remembered fondly by those who knew her and by the many fans who admired her work over the decades.