Ona Munson (June 16, 1903 – February 11, 1955) was an American actress perhaps best known for her portrayal of prostitute Belle Watling in Gone with the Wind (1939).
Note found next to bed at death, "This is the only way I know to be free again ... Please don't follow me."
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Fact
1
A slim, pale blonde, Munson achieved film immortality as the tainted Belle Watling in "Gone With The Wind". Her other film roles were sporadic supporting roles in dramas and westerns.
2
Dramatic leading and supporting actress in 1930s and 40s Hollywood, her background had encompassed both vaudeville and the Broadway musical stage.
3
She was plagued by ill-health for the final years of her life, and committed suicide with an overdose of sleeping pills aged 51.
4
Married her third husband, artist and designer Eugene Berman, at the Beverly Hills home of Igor Stravinsky.
5
Portrayed Lorelei Kilbourne, society editor for The Illustrated Press, on CBS Radio's "Big Town" (1940-1942). She replaced Claire Trevor in the role.
6
Ona Munson's name is often confused with that of the actress Osa Massen.