Hollywood has existed for a considerable time, which is why there are numerous classic films and iconic figures that are truly remarkable. Women have consistently played an essential role in Hollywood, enhancing it with their beauty, acting skills, and various other contributions. In the past, most movies were not in color, limiting the ability to see them in their full glory. Nonetheless, some rare photos have been colorized, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of these vintage images. Here are fifty classic colorized pictures for you to enjoy.
Sally Todd Leaning on a Wall
Many women took part in beauty contests and pageants, subsequently achieving fame, including Sally Todd. In 1952, she participated in a local contest, and from that point onwards, she enjoyed a remarkable career in Hollywood. Most know her for her role in Frankenstein’s Daughter in 1958. Furthermore, a year before this, she was Playmate of the Month in Playboy. Audiences valued her contributions to film, from her striking looks to her exceptional acting skills displayed on screen.
Jayne Mansfield Pretends to Play Pool
Jayne Mansfield was an actress, singer, and part-time model, which provided her with a varied and enjoyable career. In the 1950s and 1960s, she was celebrated as one of Hollywood’s most famous sex symbols. Her career included regular appearances in Playboy and roles in notable films such as “Too Hot to Handle” and “The Wayward Bus,” among others. Viewing any of these films will showcase her exceptional performances. She is particularly known for her striking blonde hair and captivating figure.
Diana Dors Aboard A Boat
There’s nothing quite like relaxing on a yacht on a hot summer day. In this picture, Diana Dors is also enjoying time on a yacht, though her career started when she was merely fourteen. She ended up marrying Dennis Hamilton, although the marriage wasn’t very successful because he pushed her into accepting roles she wasn’t enthusiastic about. Regardless, she always gave exceptional performances in all her work. She often made news because of her financial troubles, but she still managed to succeed in her career.
Rare Photograph Of Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe needs little introduction as she is well-known for her career and accomplishments. Although many photos of her are available, this one is rare and might be new to you. She starred in over twenty-five films, but her life was tragically ended at the age of thirty-six. Despite her untimely passing, she made a lasting impact on Hollywood and is still remembered. Today, she remains a cultural icon, admired by many young women who aspire to emulate her.
Betty Brosmer Posing Powerfully
Betty Brosmer was an American model and fitness expert known for her iconic figure, with her eighteen-inch waist often seen as an unrealistic benchmark. Her extraordinary physique made her a popular pinup model, featured in numerous magazine pages during her career. She played a key role in pushing for appropriate pay for models and securing their rights over their images. Later on, she became well-known for writing fitness books and imparting her knowledge. Betty Brosmer also emerged as a representative of body positivity and a wholesome lifestyle.
Anita Ekberg Collaborating with the Boat
Anita Ekberg became famous after winning Miss Sweden in 1950. However, her fame goes beyond modeling, as she appeared in many films. She is most recognized for her performance in the 1960 film La Dolce Vita. She spent the bulk of her career in Italy, where she moved in 1964 and obtained permanent residency. Her career thrived significantly, and she is celebrated for her stunning beauty, which enchanted viewers who saw her in magazines, on TV, or in movies.
Suzanne Pleshette Highlighting Fashion Trends
Finding versatile actresses can be difficult, but Suzanne Pleshette was one, appearing in TV, movies, theater, and more. If you’ve watched Rome Adventure and The Birds, then you know who she is. However, her most famous role was on The Bob Newhart Show as Emily Hartley. She revolutionized the role with the intelligence, humor, and depth she brought to the character. Her performance completely altered how people viewed sitcom wives at the time, earning her devoted fans across the country.
Brigitte Bardot Remains Inactive
There’s nothing quite like just lying down and relaxing, especially in our busy lives, which seems to be exactly what Brigitte Bardot is doing. She transformed the French film industry when she began her career, rapidly securing iconic roles. Eventually, she made her way to Hollywood, but her career there was brief after one of her films was banned due to exposed midriffs. Even while resting, she looks remarkable, and it’s no surprise to us.
Joi Lansing Keeping Cool in the Heat
Joi Lansing made a notable impact on the American entertainment industry in the 1950s and 1960s as a singer, actress, and model. However, she is often recognized for her role in the well-known crime drama “Touch of Evil.” Additionally, she was conscious of her impressive hourglass figure and used it to her benefit. This is why most of her photos showcase her in bikinis or clothing that accentuates her figure. At that time, many women used their physical features to gain recognition in the entertainment world.
Barbara Eden and the Vehicle
“I Dream of Jeannie” was among the most popular sitcoms of the 1960s, with Barbara Eden starring as Jeannie. Afterward, her career flourished, resulting in appearances in more than twenty films and TV shows, among other projects. She also held a recurring role on “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” as Aunt Irma. You can watch any of these to see Barbara Eden’s performances and witness her in some extraordinary roles that initiated and maintained her lengthy career. The colorized photo is from 1951, and Eden seems happier than ever.
Prepared to Go: Marlene Dietrich
Marlene Dietrich was a singer and actress with a career that lasted over seven decades. She began in theater and silent films and rose to prominence in Hollywood during the 1930s. In this era, she appeared in many classic films that earned her widespread acclaim. She was admired for her captivating voice, striking style, and commanding presence that fascinated audiences both on screen and on stage. This iconic photo of Marlene is noteworthy as women typically did not ride motorcycles during that time, and with this image, she defied traditional gender roles.
Vikki Dougan Showing Off Her Curvy Figure
“Many models and actresses who are confident in their bodies and talents live by the saying, ‘If you’ve got it, flaunt it.’ Vikki Dougan had a successful modeling career before moving into Hollywood. At award shows, she frequently let her shawl fall, showcasing the back of her dress, and became known for those instances. Despite this, she celebrated her sexuality and beauty. Her confidence attracted attention from people, no matter where she was.”
Jacqueline Bisset at the shoot location.
Jacqueline Bisset gained fame in her forties, celebrated for both her acting talent and successful career. Initially, many thought she landed roles primarily because of her looks. Although her appearance contributed, it wasn’t the only reason she was chosen for TV shows and films. The image displayed is a colorized still from the set of The Thief Who Came to Dinner. Released in 1973, this film is regarded as one of Jacqueline Bisset’s best performances.
Mamie Van Doren on the Roof
It appears that Mamie Van Doren didn’t find any other place for her photo shoot except this rooftop. She was on the same level as Marilyn Monroe and Jayne Mansfield as a prominent sex symbol of her time. You can see her in various roles in films like “All-American” and “Teacher’s Pet,” among others. These roles helped build her fame and contributed to her recognition. Many magazines also chose her as a model because of her striking figure and appealing appearance. She is one of those people who began with humble beginnings and gained fame through dedication and hard work.
Claudia Cardinale Dressed in a Light Blue Swimsuit
When Claudia Cardinale was seventeen, she entered a beauty contest, which led to her being discovered and starting her career as an actress. This opportunity gave her minor roles in different movies, allowing her to appear on screen occasionally. However, her most notable role was in the film Once Upon a Time in the West, which came out in 1968. It was one of the significant films she starred in during her career. If you want to see an exceptional performance by Claudia Cardinale, you should watch this film.
Bettie Page and the Mysterious Toy
In the past, there were many pinup models, but Bettie Page was regarded as the queen of pinups. She became a very famous model in America after World War II. Her distinctive bangs, alluring personality, and jet-black hair mesmerized everyone who saw her. You might liken her to Katy Perry, who has a similar demeanor and appearance. However, this picture doesn’t fully convey her beauty, and the creepy toy beside her distracts from the overall impression. Nonetheless, it’s a rare colorized photo of her that you might find.
More Content From Madeline Smith Than Ever Before
Madeline Smith started as a model in the late 1960s before moving into acting in television and film. One of her standout roles was as Miss Caruso in “Live and Let Die,” shot in 1973, which garnered her considerable recognition. Now at 73 years old, Madeline has mostly retired from acting, only occasionally appearing in the film scene.
A deck of playing cards showcasing Jane Fonda.
Jane Fonda continues to be one of the most captivating actresses on television, most recently starring in “Grace and Frankie.” Beyond acting, she is a fashion model, activist, and advocate for women globally. She has won two Oscars, and there is a rare photo of her smiling at a deck of cards. In recent years, Fonda has focused more on her political activism rather than her acting career. She claims to have found a new purpose in life and is committed to following it with determination, regardless of any challenges she might face.
Elizabeth Montgomery Demonstrating Her Skills
Elizabeth Montgomery hailed from a privileged family with ties to the industry, yet her acting and modeling career spanned five decades. She participated in numerous sitcoms and films, earning well-deserved fame and several Emmy nominations. Sadly, she was diagnosed with colon cancer and succumbed to the disease. Nevertheless, she always gave her all, and her legacy from the 1960s series “Bewitched” remains memorable today.
Charlotte Rampling and Her Intensity
Charlotte Rampling is an exceptionally versatile actress who has featured in European arthouse films in Italian, French, and English. She is also a model and singer, continuing to pursue her career actively. Rampling is celebrated for her striking beauty, sharp wit, and sensitivity, establishing her as a leading actress of her time. Here is one of her colorized photos from the sixties, where she exudes a captivating and stylish aura. Her beauty is unmatched, which is why she remains active in her career, taking on varied roles in films.
Victoria Principal Enjoying Herself at the Beach
Victoria Principal is a writer, businesswoman, producer, and actress among other roles. She has been in numerous hit movies and began her career with a TV show. Currently, she has retired from acting to concentrate on managing her own production company. The company sometimes creates various TV programs, highlighting her skills. In this colorized image, Principal is unwinding on the beach during the seventies. That rock is lucky to have such a stunning woman reclining and posing on it.
Grace Kelly Moving Elegantly
The name itself emphasizes the grace with which Grace Kelly is portrayed in this image. She was an American actress who starred in many films before marrying the Prince of Monaco and deciding to concentrate on her royal duties, setting aside her acting career. Sadly, she suffered a traumatic brain injury in a car accident at the age of 52 and died. However, her name is still well-remembered, and she is one of the prominent female stars who changed the landscape of classic cinema during her career.
Elaine Stewart Relishing the Wind
Elaine Stewart was a model who transitioned into acting, much like many women in the industry. Known for her roles in films such as Singin’ in the Rain and Stranger Beware, she was often seen as a brunette version of Marilyn Monroe. MGM quickly signed her to keep their audience captivated and attract more fans. A picture of her from the fifties reveals her striking figure and captivating beauty, which won her a loyal following.
Lauren Bacall Dressed in Her Summer Attire
Lauren Bacall began her career at a young age, appearing in her debut film at only nineteen. Her co-star in this movie was Humphrey Bogart, whom she eventually married. She continued to act in many films, gaining the recognition she deserved. Furthermore, she was nominated for an Oscar for her performance in “The Mirror Has Two Faces.” To truly appreciate her talent, be sure to watch this movie to see what we mean.
Ann-Margaret Wearing Casual Clothing
In this picture, Ann-Margaret looks relaxed and comfortable, wearing some of the coziest pajamas we’ve seen. She is a Swedish-American actress and singer who has won five Golden Globe Awards, establishing her as one of the most esteemed actresses of her time. She is still active in the acting world, and Elvis Presley was captivated by her the moment he saw her—and it’s easy to see why. Any of her films will show why she is such a captivating actress. Some actresses remain everlasting classics.
Raquel Welch Knows What She Possesses
Confidence is essential for achieving success as a model and actress. Raquel Welch has been part of the industry since the 1960s and retired in 2017. If you’ve watched her work, you’ll recognize that she’s known for playing strong female characters that defy gender stereotypes. As a result, she was a sex symbol in the sixties, akin to Marilyn Monroe. However, what set her apart was her uniqueness—she wasn’t a bottle blonde like many at the time. This greatly changed how women like her were perceived.
Irish McCalla is regarded as the Queen of the Jungle.
Iris McCalla was an American actress known for her work in television and film, most notably for her role in “Sheena, Queen of the Jungle” during the 1950s. Although many attribute her discovery to her exceptional acting talents, she disclosed that her casting was due to her innate ability to swing through the trees. Over her career, she participated in around five films within a span of four years. She died in 2002 at the age of 73, but her legacy as Sheena remains cherished in the hearts of many.
Veronica Lake Enjoying the Music
Veronica Lake can be seen relaxing by the pool, enjoying her favorite music. During the summer, we too relish this activity as it rejuvenates us. In the 1940s, she played some of the best femme fatale roles. Furthermore, Lake was a famous pinup girl for soldiers during World War II. Her popularity and beauty earned her well-deserved acclaim in those circles.
Capturing That Golden Light with Tuesday Weld
Enjoying the sunlight is unparalleled for its rejuvenating sensation, and that’s precisely what Tuesday Weld is doing in this picture. She began her career early as a child model and actress, but her big break came in 1958. During that period, she was famous for playing characters who were promiscuous, impulsive, and reckless. However, you wouldn’t infer any of that from seeing her calmly sitting in the car, basking in the sunlight and posing for the camera.
Sophia Loren Resting on the Ground
Sophia Loren was born in Rome and is one of the prominent actresses who changed the face of classic Hollywood cinema. If you have watched Two Women, an Italian movie, you will know Loren’s portrayal of Cesira. This role was so iconic that Loren earned an Academy Award for it. She still remains active today, sometimes taking on roles, though not as involved as she was at the beginning of her career. She also withdrew in the seventies due to worries about her children’s safety.
Ava Gardner Enjoying Time at the Beach
No one can look as stunning while lounging on the sand as Ava Gardner does in this picture. She enjoyed a highly successful film career, taking on many leading roles. Her remarkable beauty made her relationships with men such as John Kennedy, Sinatra, Steve McQueen, and others a popular topic of discussion. However, she died in 1990 from bronchial pneumonia. Her health had already been deteriorating, as she had a stroke in 1986 that left her paralyzed on her left side and extremely frail in her last years before her death.
Julie Newmar Embracing Her Role as Catwoman
Julie Newmar, known as a singer, actress, and dancer, famously played Catwoman in the Batman TV series. Her acting skills and appealing presence have led to various TV roles since then. Many consider her the best Catwoman due to her intelligence and determination, which suited the character well. Her portrayal of Catwoman was both deadly and mysterious, making it a definitive one in the eyes of fans.
Kim Novak at Her Peak
Kim Novak, now a retired TV and film actress as well as a painter, was most prominent from the 1950s to the 1990s. Eventually, she decided that the limelight wasn’t suitable for her after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, leading her to step away from that lifestyle. She turned her attention to horses, painting, anti-bullying initiatives, and other interests. Nonetheless, during her career peak, she enchanted audiences, as shown in this image. Her beauty and intelligence were unparalleled in Hollywood.
Ursula Andress and Her Famous Bikini
Ursula Andress was a Swiss actress best known for her role in the James Bond series. She also appeared in the Bond parody film. Furthermore, she acted in over forty TV shows and movies throughout her career, making her one of the most notable actresses. Even in this picture, you can see that her presence is striking, and she is fully aware of her contributions. Such confidence is captivating, especially in the Hollywood scene, where there are many other talented actresses and personalities.
Mara Corday with Bare Feet Next to the Lake
During her career, Mara Corday appeared in many thrilling films, including Man Without a Star and Black Scorpions, among others. Even in the 1950s, she gained fame for her natural beauty and remarkable figure. This attracted numerous photographers who wanted to capture her image, leading to the height of her modeling career. At one time, she was acknowledged as the most photographed model worldwide. As shown by this photo, she was undeniably beautiful. In this image, she is by the lake barefoot, maintaining her striking appearance with her lovely hair, outfit, and features.
Natalie Wood Is Shocked
In this picture, we can’t tell what has captured Natalie Wood’s attention, but she definitely appears more startled than ever. Wood rose to prominence following her role in Miracle on 34th Street.
th
Susan Walker is renowned for her street performances. Her other roles have also been significant, earning her Oscar nominations. However, she mysteriously passed away at the age of 43 due to drowning. At the time, she was involved in the film Brainstorm, and she was on a break from filming when the incident happened. There continues to be much speculation about her death, leaving us unsure of what really occurred.
Yvonne Craig Appearing Cute in an Outfit
If you watched the 60s TV series, Batman, you would recognize Yvonne Craig for her outstanding role in the show. Aside from acting, she was also a ballet dancer and toured with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo when she wasn’t filming TV series. In this image, she is dressed in a delightful outfit and seems conscious of her impressive appearance. The photo, taken in 1961, has been colorized so you can appreciate it in full detail. She looks poised to conquer the world.
Sharon Tate and Her Tragic Fate
Sharon Tate was an exceptional American model and actress, yet some people are just too lovely for the world’s harsh realities. The 1960s was her peak period, and she was on the brink of becoming a legendary Hollywood figure. Her roles in various productions, such as Don’t Make Waves and Valley of the Dolls, contributed to this. Sadly, her career was abruptly halted when she was killed by the Manson family while eight months pregnant. She deserved more, and she would have become an outstanding actress if her life hadn’t been tragically cut short.
Carolyn Jones Ready to Embark
In this picture, Carolyn Jones seems prepared to set off on a sailing journey, facing the ocean with the same confidence she faced Hollywood. Widely recognized as Morticia Addams, she is often linked with a haunting beauty. However, in this image, she doesn’t look haunted; she appears to be enjoying a day at sea. As a highly talented actress, she earned a Golden Globe and an Academy Award, both well-deserved. Those who know her work are highly aware of her acting talent, with her beauty being just one aspect of her exceptional personality.
The Famous Legs of Betty Grable
This photograph of Betty Grable is from 1935, a time when she was one of the top actresses. This was due to her many successful films that were box office hits. However, one of the most notable aspects of her fame was her legs, which are prominently featured in this picture. She proudly showcases her beautiful legs, and it’s easy to see why. They became iconic in Hollywood, and she knew how valuable they were. Her confidence and beauty were essential in her rise to fame and in securing significant roles.
Cleo Moore Ready To Jump Into The Pool
If you can’t already tell from the picture, Cleo Moore was a famous pinup girl because of her looks. This includes her captivating smile, hourglass figure, blonde hair, and other features. Keep in mind that her work never got the recognition it deserved, yet she remains well-known. This is because many of the films she was in at the time are now considered cult classics. So, you can also watch them and form your own opinion based on your perspective. However, even if the movie isn’t to your liking, you’ll still appreciate Moore’s performance.
Stella Stevens in a Floral Bikini
Yellow and red floral bikinis may not be in fashion today, but they were all the rage in the 60s, as shown in this picture of Stella Stevens. Born in 1938, she reached the peak of her career in her thirties, featuring in famous productions such as The Poseidon Adventure and Nutty Professor among others. People admired her figure, bright eyes, beautiful hair, and everything else about her. This is one of her most famous photos as she looks stunning and displays those gorgeous legs that many admired.
Elke Sommer Appearing Stunning
Elke Sommer, originally from Berlin, was one of the most iconic actresses of the 1960s. She starred in nearly a hundred films and continued to appear on television until 2005. If you’ve watched The Art of Love or A Shot in the Dark, you might recall her. This is because she is conscious of her own magnificence, which is apparent in her demeanor, as depicted in this 1968 photo. Sommer is aware of how stunning she looks and wants you to recognize it too, with that playful smile on her face.
June Wilkinson and Her Remarkable Appearance
Throughout her career, Wilkinson has been acknowledged for her appearances in Playboy magazine and various films. Her figure is one of her most attractive features, leading to many appearances in Playboy. Her modeling career includes features in over fifty newspapers and magazines throughout her lifetime. At one stage, she was even named the most photographed nude woman in the USA. The image you’re seeing is not one of her nude photos, but she still looks equally alluring here, as her striking appearance is captivating enough.
The Allure of Jill St. John
If you’ve seen different productions from the 1970s, you probably know Jill St. John, as she was a well-known figure during that period. She featured in various TV shows and films, including “Diamonds Are Forever,” “Magnum PI,” “Hart to Hart,” “Fantasy Island,” and many more. Most remember her from the 1971 James Bond film where she portrayed a Bond girl, a role that has made a lasting impression. If you haven’t watched it yet, make sure to do so to understand who she is and why she is so captivating.
Janet Leigh Got Ready for the Summer
Janet Leigh sits by the pool with her legs in the water, dressed in a red swimsuit and red lipstick, fully confident in her striking appearance. Her outfit highlights her physique, while the pool looks enticing. If we found ourselves in her position, we’d probably take a plunge to beat the heat. The image appears to be from a summer photoshoot, as Leigh seems ready to enjoy the season to the fullest. It’s fitting, given that she possesses the perfect summer figure that many of us aim for annually.
Yvonne De Carlo Resting on the Couch
Everyone enjoys lounging on the couch during their downtime, and Yvonne de Carlo is no exception. However, she appears far more striking than most of us in this situation. Her beauty is unmatched, looking stunning in her attire. Moreover, her captivating smile and eyes further enhance her allure. She has been featured in countless projects, including “The Ten Commandments.” If you’ve watched this movie, you will surely recall her outstanding performance in that iconic role.
Sandra Dee and Her Big Blonde Hair
You might know Sandra Dee from movies like Imitation of Life, Gidget, and Come September, as well as from a well-known song in Grease. This is a classic photo because, due to the black-and-white format of her films, we rarely get to see her blonde hair. However, this colorized image emphasizes her hair, her beautiful skin, and everything else she brings. Even the bikini looks great and must feel privileged to be worn by Sandra Dee in this memorable picture. The photo dates back to 1959, and it seems Dee is fully aware of how amazing she looks in it.
Blaze Starr and the Drums
Blaze Starr was a prominent star, and this 1954 photo has been colorized to enhance its vibrancy. She was a famous dancer who displayed her talents to numerous men, including the governor of Louisiana and others who wished to see her perform. In this image, her alluring charm is clear through her posture and captivating look. She appears ready to play the bongos and dance to their beat, promising an unforgettable performance.
Carroll Baker Knows What You’re Thinking
This is one of Carroll Baker’s most iconic images, where she appears to be gazing into your soul, seemingly understanding it all. Maybe she does, or maybe she doesn’t—we might never know. What we do know is that she looks breathtaking in this mint green dress. If you’re not familiar with her, she was a star in the film adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ play “Baby Doll.” Besides that, she took on several other roles, but this is perhaps the most charming ensemble we’ve seen her in.