Legendary actress Janis Paige has passed away at the age of 101. Stuart Lampert, her longtime friend, confirmed on Monday that she died of natural causes on Sunday at her home in Los Angeles.

A Star on Broadway and the Big Screen

Janis Paige shined in both Broadway and Hollywood. She made her mark on stage with roles like starring alongside Jackie Cooper in “Remains to be Seen.” She also stole the spotlight as Josie in “The Pajama Game.” Her film career was equally remarkable, featuring roles in movies like “Bachelor in Paradise” alongside Bob Hope and “Please Don’t Eat the Daisies” with Doris Day.

Speaking Out in the #MeToo Movement

In 2018, at age 95, Paige publicly joined the #MeToo movement. She courageously shared her experience of being mistreated by Alfred Bloomingdale, an heir to the department store fortune, when she was only 22. “I felt his hands everywhere,” she recalled, adding that after all those years, she could no longer stay silent.

Hollywood Canteen and Paige’s Breakthrough

Paige’s breakthrough moment arrived during World War II. She sang an aria at the Hollywood Canteen, which led MGM to cast her in “Bathing Beauty.” This opportunity led Warner Bros. to take notice, and they signed her the next day, putting her in the film “Hollywood Canteen.”

The Road to Stardom

During her first week at Warner Bros., Paige earned $150—a sum far exceeding her mother’s monthly income during the Great Depression. She starred in a series of lighthearted films such as “Two Guys from Milwaukee” and “Romance on the High Seas.”

From Hollywood to Broadway

After Warner Bros. ended her contract in 1949, Paige transitioned to Broadway. She starred in productions like “Remains to Be Seen” and dazzled audiences in “The Pajama Game,” cementing her versatility and talent on stage.

Back to Hollywood

Not long after, Paige returned to Hollywood when she caught the attention of Arthur Freed at a Los Angeles nightclub. Freed cast her in “Silk Stockings” with Fred Astaire. Despite the challenges of working on the film, particularly during their “Stereophonic Sound” scene, Paige won over audiences with her signature wit and charm.

A Return to the Stage

In 2003, at age 80, Paige decided to return to the stage. She launched a show at San Francisco’s Plush Room, sharing intimate stories from her Broadway and Hollywood days. Critics admired her energy and enthusiasm, noting that she had lost none of her charisma.

Humble Beginnings in Tacoma

Janis Paige was born in Tacoma, Washington. After her father left the family, she was raised by her hardworking mother. Paige’s determination to succeed stemmed from her desire to help her mother make ends meet during difficult times.

Television Success and Touring

Paige found success on television, starring in the sitcom “It’s Always Jan” and making guest appearances in shows like “Santa Barbara” and “Fantasy Island.” She also stepped in for Angela Lansbury in “Mame” and toured with productions such as “Gypsy” and “Annie Get Your Gun.”

Personal Life

Paige was married three times, including a marriage to songwriter Ray Gilbert, who won an Oscar for “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah.” After his death in 1976, Paige took on the task of managing his music company, demonstrating her resilience and business acumen.

A Lasting Legacy

Janis Paige’s career covered both stage and screen, and her contributions to entertainment are enduring. Her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of performers and fans, reminding us all of her immense talent and spirit.