Myrna Loy

Today marks the 104th anniversary of the birth of the late Myrna Loy. The actress, who died in 1993, was best known for her portrayal of Nora Charles in the six Thin Man movies (1934-47). She was hugely popular in the 1930's and 40's, having also appeared in The Best Years of Our Lives (1946), Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House (1948 opposite Cary Grant), and Cheaper by the Dozen (1950). She began her career in the silent film era where she often played the role of the exotic femme fatale. After the advent of sound her roles switched to that of the witty, urbane, professional woman or loyal housewife. Legend has it that Loy was the favorite star of famed outlaw John Dillinger and that he came out of hiding in 1934 just to see her in Manhattan Melodrama. He was gunned down by FBI agents upon leaving the theater. If you've never heard of Myrna Loy or have never seen the Thin Man movies, it's about time you sat down for a marathon.