Glynis Johns, the renowned actress who brought the iconic character of Mrs. Banks to life in the timeless classic “Mary Poppins,” has passed away at the age of 100.
Her manager, Mitch Clem, confirmed the news and paid tribute to Johns’ remarkable life, saying, “She powered her way through life with intelligence, wit, and a love for performance, affecting millions of lives.”
Johns’ illustrious career spanned over two decades in English films before she made her mark in Disney’s adaptation of P.L. Travers’ “Mary Poppins” novels. Her enchanting performance as Mrs. Banks, singing “Sister Suffragette,” remains unforgettable.
Johns’ talent extended beyond her iconic role in “Mary Poppins.” She received a Tony Award for her portrayal of Desiree Armfeldt in the original Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim’s “A Little Night Music,” introducing the timeless song “Send in the Clowns,” specially crafted for her by Sondheim.
She also earned an Oscar nomination for her supporting role in the 1960 film “The Sundowners.” Johns continued to motivate audiences in her later years, taking on roles that defied stereotypes associated with older actresses.
Her final screen appearance came in the 1999 film “Superstar,” starring Molly Shannon, where she played the character of Grandma.
Born in Pretoria, South Africa, during her family’s performance tour, Johns shared the screen with her father, Mervyn Johns, in films like “The Halfway House,” “The Magic Box,” and “The Sundowners.”
Despite facing personal challenges, including four marriages and divorces, Johns leaves behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
She is survived by her son, Gareth, from her marriage to Anthony Forwood. As Hollywood mourns the loss of a beloved actress, they also bid farewell to an era – the golden age of Hollywood.