Virginia Grey (March 22, 1917 – July 31, 2004) was a prominent American actress known for her extensive work in film and television. Born in Los Angeles, she was the daughter of director Ray Grey and had notable connections in the industry from an early age, including being babysat by the legendary Gloria Swanson. Virginia made her acting debut at just ten years old in the silent film Uncle Tom's Cabin (1927), portraying the character of Little Eva. After a brief hiatus to complete her education, she returned to the silver screen in the 1930s with supporting roles before securing a contract with MGM.
Throughout her career, Grey appeared in several notable films, including Another Thin Man, Hullabaloo, and The Big Store, and played the role of Consuela McNish in The Hardys Ride High (1939) alongside Mickey Rooney. After leaving MGM in 1942, she continued her career with various studios and became a staple in the melodramatic films produced by Ross Hunter during the 1950s and 1960s, featuring in hits like All That Heaven Allows and Madame X.
Grey's personal life garnered attention, especially her tumultuous relationship with Clark Gable during the 1940s. Despite expectations of marriage, their romance faded, leaving Grey heartbroken. She remained active on television in the 1950s and 1960s, guest-starring on numerous popular shows like Playhouse 90 and Bonanza. Her legacy was further recognized when she was portrayed by Anna Torv in the HBO miniseries The Pacific.
