Hollywood has been around for a long time, which is why you’ll find many classic movies and iconic figures that are truly captivating. Women have always played a significant role in Hollywood, contributing beauty, acting talent, and more. Back in those days, most films weren’t in color, which means you don’t get to see them in their full splendor. However, some rare images have been colorized so you can experience the beauty of these classic photos. Here are fifty classic colorized photos for your enjoyment.
Sally Todd Resting Against A Wall
Many women participated in beauty contests and pageants, gaining fame as a result, and Sally Todd was among them. She entered a local contest in 1952, which marked the beginning of her remarkable career in Hollywood. Most people remember her from her role in “Frankenstein’s Daughter” in 1958. The year before, she was also Playboy’s Playmate of the Month. Audiences appreciated her contributions to cinema, from her striking beauty to her outstanding acting skills that were evident onscreen.
Jayne Mansfield Feigns Playing Pool
Jayne Mansfield was not only an actress but also a singer and a part-time model, leading to a well-rounded career that she thoroughly enjoyed. During the 1950s and 1960s, she was one of Hollywood’s most famous sex symbols, frequently featuring in Playboy and well-known productions like “Too Hot to Handle,” “The Wayward Bus,” and many others. You can watch any of these to see her in her prime. She’s primarily known for her striking blonde hair and alluring figure.
Diana Dors aboard a yacht
There’s nothing more enjoyable than lounging on a yacht during a hot summer day. As shown in the picture, Diana Dors is also on a yacht, but her career began when she was just fourteen years old. She later married Dennis Hamilton, though their marriage wasn’t very successful because he frequently pressured her into roles that didn’t interest her. Regardless, she delivered outstanding performances in all her work. More often, she made headlines due to her financial troubles, but despite that, she managed to succeed on her own.
Uncommon Photo of Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe doesn’t need an introduction, as she’s already known worldwide for her career achievements. Many photographs of her exist, and this is a rare one that you might not have encountered. She appeared in over twenty-five films, yet her life ended tragically at the age of thirty-six. Despite her premature passing, she remains memorable for her impact on Hollywood. Today, she continues to be a cultural icon whom young women admire and seek to emulate.
Betty Brosmer Striking a Confident Pose
Betty Brosmer was an American model and fitness expert known for her ideal figure, with an eighteen-inch waist that many believed was unattainable. Due to her physique, she also became a pinup model and appeared in various magazines throughout her career. She left her mark by advocating for fair compensation for models and control over their images. Later in her career, she became known for authoring fitness books and sharing her insights. She was also an icon of body positivity and promoted a healthy lifestyle.
Anita Ekberg Complementing The Boat
Anita Ekberg gained fame as Miss Sweden in 1950. However, her modeling career isn’t her only claim to fame, as she also appeared in several productions. She is best known for her role in the film La Dolce Vita during the 1960s. Ekberg spent much of her career in Italy, where she worked, receiving her PR in 1964, and remained there thereafter. Her career was highly successful, and she is widely recognized for her stunning beauty, which captivated audiences who saw her in magazines, on TV, or in movies.
Suzanne Pleshette Showcasing Stylish Appearances
Talented actresses who can take on a wide range of roles are rare, and Suzanne Pleshette was one such actress, appearing in TV shows, films, theater, and more. If you’ve seen Rome Adventure or The Birds, then you know her work. However, she is best known for her role as Emily Hartley on The Bob Newhart Show. She brought intelligence, humor, and depth to the character, redefining the perception of sitcom wives at the time. Her performance garnered her a devoted fan base across the country.
Brigitte Bardot Resting
There’s nothing better than simply relaxing and doing nothing, especially given our hectic lives, and that’s what Brigitte Bardot seems to be doing. She transformed the French cinema scene when her career started because she received iconic roles right from the beginning. She eventually starred in Hollywood, but her career there was short-lived, as one of her films was banned for showing bare midriffs. Even when she’s doing nothing, she looks amazing, and it’s no surprise.
Joi Lansing Staying Cool
Joi Lansing made an impact on the entertainment industry in the 1950s and 1960s as a singer, actress, and model in America. However, many people remember her for her role in the notable crime drama “Touch of Evil.” In addition, she was aware of her exceptional hourglass figure and took advantage of it. That’s why most of her photos are in bikinis or clothes that emphasize this figure. Many women at that time capitalized on their assets because they understood what they could contribute to the entertainment industry.
Barbara Eden and the Truck
I Dream of Jeannie was one of the most well-known sitcoms of the 1960s, featuring Barbara Eden as Jeannie. Since then, her career skyrocketed, leading her to appear in over twenty films, TV shows, and more. She also had a recurring role as Aunt Irma in Sabrina the Teenage Witch. You can watch any of these to see Barbara Eden in action and witness her in some remarkable roles that launched and sustained her long-lasting career. The colorized photo is from 1951, and Eden appears happier than ever.
Marlene Dietrich Prepared to Ride
Marlene Dietrich was a singer and actress whose career spanned over seventy years. She started in theater and silent films and eventually gained fame in Hollywood during the 1930s. During this period, she featured in several classic films that made her well-known. She was widely praised for her alluring voice, stunning style, and captivating presence, whether on television or in theater. This iconic image of Marlene is significant because, at that time, women rarely rode motorcycles, and with this single photograph, she is challenging gender roles.
Vikki Dougan Flaunting Her Curvaceous Physique
“If you’ve got it, flaunt it” is a popular motto among many models and actresses who are confident in their bodies and talents. Vikki Dougan had a remarkable modeling career before transitioning to Hollywood. At award shows, she often removed her shawl to reveal her dress from the back, acts that contributed to her fame. Despite this, she never wavered and fully embraced her sexuality and beauty. This confidence is what enthralled people with her presence, no matter where she was.
Jacqueline Bisset Filming
Jacqueline Bisset gained recognition for her acting talents and career, despite being born in the 1940s. Early in her career, many believed she secured roles primarily due to her beauty. While her looks did play a part, they weren’t the sole reason she was cast in TV shows and movies. The colorized photo shown is from the set of “The Thief Who Came to Dinner.” Released in 1973, this film showcases some of Jacqueline Bisset’s finest performances.
Mamie Van Doren on the Rooftop
It seems that Mamie Van Doren chose this rooftop as the location for her photoshoot. She was considered a top sex symbol of her era, alongside Marilyn Monroe and Jayne Mansfield. Her fame came from various roles, including All-American and Teacher’s Pet, among others. Her stunning physique and good looks made her a popular choice for magazine features. She started from modest beginnings and rose to fame through determination and effort.
Claudia Cardinale Wearing A Light Blue Swimsuit
At the age of seventeen, Claudia Cardinale participated in a beauty pageant, which led to her discovery and subsequent career as an actress. This led to her receiving small roles in various films, allowing audiences to see her on screen occasionally. However, her most significant role was in the film Once Upon a Time in the West, released in 1968. It was one of the major films she starred in during her career. If you want to see Claudia Cardinale’s outstanding performance, you can watch this movie.
Bettie Page and the Eerie Toy
There were numerous pinup models in the past, but Bettie Page was regarded as the queen of pinups. She became one of America’s most renowned models following WWII. Her distinctive bangs, alluring persona, and jet-black hair captivated anyone who saw her. She can be likened to Katy Perry, who shares a similar demeanor and appearance. Nonetheless, this particular image doesn’t fully capture her beauty, and the unsettling toy beside her doesn’t enhance the image. However, it is a rare colorized photograph of her that you might come across.
Madeline Smith is More Content Than Ever
Madeline Smith was a model in the late 1960s before she began acting in various TV shows and movies. One of her most memorable roles was as Miss Caruso in the 1973 film Live and Let Die, which brought her significant attention. Now seventy-three, she has largely retired from acting, with only occasional appearances in film or television.
Playing cards with Jane Fonda
Jane Fonda remains one of the most captivating actresses you will see on TV, recently starring in Grace and Frankie. She is an actress, fashion model, activist, and a global advocate for women. The actress has received two Oscars, and you can find a rare photo of her smiling while holding a deck of cards. In recent years, Fonda has concentrated more on her political activism than her acting career. She says she has discovered this new purpose in life and intends to pursue it with all her strength, regardless of any challenges she may encounter.
Elizabeth Montgomery Displaying Her Talents
Elizabeth Montgomery was born into a wealthy family involved in the entertainment industry. Her acting and modeling career lasted fifty years, during which she featured in numerous sitcoms and movies that earned her well-deserved fame. As a result, she received multiple Emmy nominations. Tragically, she was diagnosed with colon cancer and eventually succumbed to the illness. Nonetheless, she gave her all to her work, leaving a legacy that continues to be remembered, particularly for her role in the 1960s series Bewitched.
Charlotte Rampling and Intense Passion
Charlotte Rampling is among the most adaptable actresses, having appeared in European arthouse films in Italian, French, and English. She is an actress, model, and singer who remains active in her profession. Rampling is recognized for her striking beauty, sharp humor, and sensitivity, making her the leading actress of her era. This image is a colorized photograph of her from the sixties, where she exudes charm and showcases stunning looks. Even today, her beauty is unparalleled, allowing her to continue pursuing a vibrant career and taking on diverse roles in films.
Victoria Principal Enjoying a Beach Day
Victoria Principal is an author, entrepreneur, producer, actress, and more. She has appeared in numerous successful films and started her career with a TV show. However, she has now stepped back from acting to focus on running her own production company. They produce various TV shows periodically, showcasing her talent. In this colorized photo, Principal is simply lying on the beach, relaxing in the seventies. That is one fortunate rock to have such a beautiful woman resting on it and posing.
Grace Kelly Walking with Elegance
As the name suggests, Grace Kelly is seen walking with remarkable elegance in this picture. She was an American actress who appeared in several films before marrying the Prince of Monaco, choosing to engage in royal responsibilities and pause her acting career. Tragically, she sustained a traumatic brain injury in a car accident at the age of 52 and passed away. Despite this, her name is still remembered, and she remains one of the leading female stars who transformed the world of classic cinema during her lifetime.
Elaine Stewart Relishing The Breeze
Many women start their careers with modeling before trying acting, and Elaine Stewart followed this path as well. She was both a model and an actress who appeared in several films, including Singin’ in the Rain, Stranger Beware, and others. Some people considered her to be a dark-haired version of Marilyn Monroe. Because of this, MGM swiftly signed her to maintain their audience and draw in more viewers. This photograph from the fifties shows that she had a stunning figure and an even more beautiful face, which helped her build a loyal fan base.
Lauren Bacall in Her Summer Outfit
Lauren Bacall started her career early, as she appeared in her first film at the age of nineteen. Her co-star in this movie was Humphrey Bogart, whom she later married. Subsequently, she acted in countless films that earned her the fame she deserved. Additionally, she was nominated for an Oscar for her role in “The Mirror Has Two Faces.” Therefore, if you want to witness her best performance, you should watch this movie to understand what we mean.
Ann-Margaret in Casual Attire
Ann-Margaret appears cozy and comfortable in this picture, wearing the comfiest pajamas we’ve seen. She is a Swedish-American actress and singer. To date, she has won five Golden Globe Awards, making her one of the most acclaimed actresses of her era. She continues to be an active actor, and Elvis Presley famously fell in love with her at first sight, for good reason. Watching one of her films will show you why she is such a captivating actress. Some actresses will always be timeless classics.
Raquel Welch Is Aware Of What She Has
Confidence is unparalleled in transforming someone into an outstanding model and actress. Raquel Welch, who began her career in the 1960s, retired in 2017. If you’re familiar with her work, you’ll know she was renowned for portraying strong female characters that challenged gender norms, and justifiably so. This attribute also made her a sex symbol during the 1960s, akin to Marilyn Monroe. However, what set her apart and made her iconic was that she wasn’t a blonde, as most were at the time. This significantly altered perceptions of such women.
Irish McCalla is the Jungle Queen.
Iris McCalla was an American television and film actress best known for her role in “Sheena, Queen of the Jungle,” which aired in the 1950s. Many believe she was discovered due to her remarkable acting abilities. However, the actress revealed that she was chosen for her natural talent in swinging through the trees. During her career, she starred in about five films over a period of four years. She died in 2002 at the age of 73, but her legacy as Sheena continues to live on in people’s hearts.
Veronica Lake Listening to the Music
Veronica Lake is clearly enjoying herself as she relaxes by the pool, taking in her favorite tunes. In the summertime, this is one of our cherished pastimes that sustains us. In the 1940s, she was known for playing some of the best femme fatale roles. Additionally, Lake was a well-known pinup girl for soldiers during World War II. Considering her striking appearance and notable personality, it’s no wonder she was popular in those circles and received the recognition she merited.
Tuesday Weld Capturing That Golden Glow
There’s nothing quite like basking in the sunlight as it feels so invigorating, and that’s exactly what Tuesday Weld is doing in this photo. She started her career early as a child model and actress. However, the role that brought her significant fame came in 1958. At that time, she was known for portraying characters who were promiscuous, impulsive, and reckless. You wouldn’t guess any of that seeing her so calm, quietly soaking up the sun in the car and posing for a picture.
Sophia Loren On The Ground
Sophia Loren, born in Rome, is among the leading female actresses who transformed the realm of classic cinema in Hollywood. If you’ve seen the Italian film “Two Women,” then you’re aware that Loren portrayed the character Cesira, a role that was so legendary that it earned her an Academy Award. Even today, she is still involved in acting, taking on some roles occasionally. Nevertheless, she isn’t as involved as she was at the start of her career. She also stepped back in the seventies because she was concerned about her children’s safety.
Ava Gardner Relaxing on the Beach
No one can look as good relaxing on the sand as Ava Gardner does in this photo. She had one of the most successful film careers, featuring in numerous leading roles. Her incredible beauty made her well-known for her relationships with men, including John Kennedy, Sinatra, Steve McQueen, and many others. However, she passed away in 1990 due to bronchial pneumonia. Her health wasn’t in great shape as she also suffered a stroke in 1986, which left her paralyzed on her left side and very weak in her final years before her passing.
Julie Newmar Embracing Her Catwoman Persona
Julie Newmar is a singer, actress, and dancer who appeared in Batman and, in this photograph, is portraying Catwoman in the Batman TV series. Since then, she has taken on numerous roles on television thanks to her acting talent and appealing appearance. Many believe she was the greatest Catwoman ever due to her intelligence and determination, making her the ideal fit for the role. Her deadly but mysterious persona made her a perfect embodiment of Catwoman. As a result, most fans consider her the ultimate Catwoman.
Kim Novak in Her Prime
Kim Novak, now a retired TV and film actress and painter, was most active from the 1950s to the 1990s. Eventually, she chose to step away from the spotlight after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, deciding that lifestyle wasn’t for her. She redirected her efforts towards horses, painting, anti-bullying campaigns, and other pursuits. During her active years, she captivated audiences, as evident in this picture. Her beauty and intellect remain unmatched in Hollywood.
Ursula Andress and Her Iconic Bikini
Ursula Andress was a Swiss actress well-known for her role in the James Bond series. In addition to that, she also appeared in a Bond parody film. However, her career extended beyond this, as she featured in over forty TV shows and movies throughout her life, establishing herself as a prominent actress. Even in this picture, you can see that her presence is captivating, and she is aware of the value she brings. This kind of confidence is particularly attractive, especially in Hollywood, where she stood among other great actresses and personalities.
Mara Corday Without Shoes Beside The Lake
Throughout her career, Mara Corday starred in numerous remarkable films, including “Man Without a Star,” “Black Scorpions,” among others. Even in the 50s, she gained fame for her natural beauty and stunning figure. This led to many people wanting to photograph her, and her modeling career reached its height. At one time, she was even recognized as the most photographed model globally. As evidenced by this photo, she was undeniably beautiful. In this image, she is barefoot by the lakeside, and she still looks her best with her lovely hair, attire, and features.
Natalie Wood is Astonished
We don’t know what Natalie Wood is looking at in this picture, but she’s clearly more surprised than ever. Wood gained fame after her role in Miracle on 14
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Susan Walker was well-known for her role on the street, and her other performances have been iconic enough to receive Oscar nominations. However, she tragically and mysteriously drowned at the age of 43. At the time of her death, she was working on the film Brainstorm and took a break from production when the incident occurred. Her death remains the subject of much speculation, leaving us uncertain about the true circumstances.
Yvonne Craig in an Adorable Outfit
If you’ve watched the 1960s TV series, Batman, you’ll recognize Yvonne Craig, who had an outstanding role on the show. In addition to her acting career, she was a ballet dancer and toured with the Ballet Russe de Monte when she wasn’t filming. She appears in a charming outfit in this photo, clearly aware of how wonderful she looks. This picture, originally taken in 1961, has been colorized to present it in its full glory. She appears ready to conquer the world.
Sharon Tate and Her Tragic Fate
Sharon Tate was an exceptional American model and actress, but some individuals are simply too beautiful for this world’s harsh realities. The sixties marked the height of her career as she was poised to become one of Hollywood’s most iconic stars. This was due to her roles in various productions, including “Don’t Make Waves,” “Valley of the Dolls,” among others. Unfortunately, her career was cut short as she was murdered by the Manson family while she was eight months pregnant. She deserved more, and she would have become an outstanding actress if her life had not been tragically cut short.
Carolyn Jones Prepared to Set Sail
Carolyn Jones appears prepared to embark on a nautical adventure in this photo, embracing the sea just as she did Hollywood. You’re likely familiar with her as Morticia Addams, a role that has led many to see her as a captivating beauty. In this image, however, she doesn’t appear haunted; rather, she seems to be enjoying her time on the ocean. She was among the most promising actresses of her time, having earned a Golden Globe and an Academy Award, achievements that are well-deserved. If you’ve witnessed her performances, you know how skilled she is as an actress, and her beauty is merely one facet of her remarkable personality.
Betty Grable and Her Famous Legs
This photograph of Betty Grable is from 1935, when she was one of the leading actresses of the era. This was due to her starring in numerous successful films that dominated the box office. However, one of the most notable aspects of this actress was her legs, as evident in the picture. She proudly displays her beautiful legs, and understandably so. They became Hollywood icons, and she was aware of her assets. It was this confidence and beauty that initially made her famous and landed her some remarkable roles.
Cleo Moore Prepared To Dive Into The Pool
If it’s not obvious from the picture, Cleo Moore was a famous pinup girl thanks to her appearance, which included a beautiful smile, an hourglass figure, blonde hair, and other attractive features. Although her productions didn’t receive the recognition they deserved at the time, she remains well-known because many of the movies she made are now considered cult classics. You can watch them and form your own opinion based on how you feel about them. However, even if the movie doesn’t appeal to you, you’ll likely enjoy Moore’s performance.
Stella Stevens Wearing A Floral Bikini
Yellow and red floral bikinis might not be in style right now, but they were popular in the 60s, as shown in this photo of Stella Stevens. Born in 1938, she was at the height of her career in her thirties, starring in famous productions like The Poseidon Adventure and The Nutty Professor, among others. People admired her body, sparkling eyes, gorgeous hair, and everything else about her. This is one of her most iconic pictures because she looks amazing and is showcasing the beautiful legs that many men were captivated by.
Elke Sommer Looks Fabulous
Elke Sommer hailed from Berlin and was one of the most iconic actresses of the 1960s. She appeared in nearly a hundred films and continued to appear on TV until 2005. If you’ve watched The Art of Love or A Shot in the Dark, you might remember her. This is because she is aware of her own greatness, which is evident from her attitude, as seen in this 1968 photo. Sommer knows how stunning she looks and wants you to recognize it too, with that cheeky grin on her face.
June Wilkinson and Her Striking Appearance
Throughout her career, Wilkinson has been famous for her appearances in Playboy magazine and various films. This is due to her having an attractive figure, which led to multiple features in Playboy. Her modeling career has been featured in over fifty newspapers and magazines throughout her life. At one time, she held the title of being the most photographed nude woman in the USA. What you’re seeing is not one of her nude photos, but she appears just as provocative in this image, with her captivating looks being enough to captivate you.
Jill St. John and Her Elegance
If you’re familiar with different productions from the 1970s, then you likely recognize Jill St. John, who was a prominent figure during that era. She appeared in a wide range of TV shows and films, including *Diamonds Are Forever*, *Magnum PI*, *Hart to Hart*, *Fantasy Island*, among others. Many people remember her for her role as a Bond girl in the 1971 film, which is truly memorable and unforgettable. If you haven’t watched it, you should definitely check it out to understand who she is and why she is considered so glamorous.
Janet Leigh Prepared for the Summer
Janet Leigh sits by the pool with her legs in the water, wearing a red swimsuit and red lipstick. She is aware of how alluring she looks in this outfit, which accentuates her figure, while the pool appears inviting. If we were in her shoes, we might consider diving into the pool to escape the heat. The image seems to be from a summer photo shoot, as Leigh appears perfectly prepared for the summer season. We can’t fault her because she has the ideal summer physique that we aspire to achieve annually.
Yvonne De Carlo Relaxing On The Couch
We all enjoy relaxing on the couch when we have free time, and Yvonne de Carlo is doing just that, but she looks much more stunning than we do in the same situation. Her beauty is unparalleled, and she looks fantastic in her outfit. In addition, her smile and eyes enhance her beauty even further, captivating us completely. She has appeared in numerous productions, including The Ten Commandments. If you’ve seen that movie, you’ll surely remember her, as she excels in that iconic role.
Sandra Dee and Her Large Blonde Hair
You might recognize Sandra Dee from Imitation of Life, Gidget, Come September, and a beloved song in Grease. This picture is iconic because, in these black-and-white films, we rarely got to see her blonde hair. However, this colorized image highlights her hair, her beautiful skin, and all her other features. Even the bikini is stunning, and it’s fortunate to grace Sandra Dee’s body in this iconic shot. This picture is from 1959, and Dee seems aware of how great she looks in it.
Blaze Starr and the Bongos
Blaze Starr was one of the most renowned stars, and this image from 1954 has been colorized to give it a more vibrant feel. She was recognized as a famous dancer who showcased her talents to many men, including the governor of Louisiana and numerous others eager to witness her performances. Even in this picture, we can sense her seductive charm in the way she poses and her striking appearance. It seems she’s prepared to play those bongos and dance to their rhythm to provide you with an unforgettable show.
Carroll Baker Understands What’s On Your Mind
This is one of the most iconic photographs of Carroll Baker, where it seems as if she is looking into your soul and knows everything that is happening. Perhaps she does, or perhaps she doesn’t; we will never know for certain. However, what we do know is that she looks stunning in this mint green gown. If you aren’t familiar with her, she was a star in the film adaptation of Tennessee Williams’ play “Baby Doll.” Apart from that role, she also appeared in other performances. Nonetheless, this is probably the most fun outfit we’ve seen her wear.