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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Jean Adair (June 13, 1873, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada — May 11, 1953, New York City) was a Canadian actress. Born as Violet McNaughton, she worked primarily on stage but also made several film appearances late in her career, most notably as one of Cary Grant's dotty old aunts in Arsenic and Old Lace, a role she originated on Broadway. Like many stage actresses of her era, she also appeared in vaudeville. Description above from the Wikipedia article Jean Adair, licensed under CC-BY-SA,full list of contributors on Wikipedia.
Jean Adair was a Canadian actress and vaudeville performer who gained recognition for her prolific stage career and her memorable portrayal of Aunt Martha in the film Arsenic and Old Lace.
She is most recognized for originating the role of Aunt Martha Brewster on Broadway and subsequently reprising the character in the 1944 film adaptation of Arsenic and Old Lace.
She built her professional reputation in vaudeville and regional stock theater, eventually transitioning to character roles as a matronly figure in various Hollywood films during the 1930s and 1940s.