Barbara Read

Barbara Read, born in Port Arthur, Ontario, Canada, was the daughter of a contractor who initially entered the film industry with high hopes. Her early career began under a contract with Columbia Pictures, yet she faced disappointment, as she was never cast in any projects and ultimately left the studio in frustration. Her fortunes changed when she signed with Universal Pictures, leading to her notable role as one of the Craig sisters in the beloved film *Three Smart Girls* (1936), alongside Deanna Durbin and Nan Grey. This film remains her most recognized work.

Read's personal life took a significant turn when she married actor William Talman, known for his role in "Perry Mason," in 1953. The couple had two children, Barbara ("Barbie") and William III ("Bobo"), but their marriage was marked by struggles, particularly with alcohol dependency for both. They divorced in 1960, with Barbara initially gaining custody of their children. However, her ongoing battles with alcoholism and emotional distress led to a change in custody the following year.

Tragically, Barbara Read's life ended on December 11, 1963, at her home in Laguna Beach, California, where she took her own life. She left behind a note citing "ill health" as the reason for her despair, underscoring the profound challenges she faced throughout her life.