In a poignant farewell to the literary world, Anne Edwards, acclaimed as the ‘Queen of Biography,’ bid adieu at the age of 96 in Beverly Hills, California, succumbing to lung cancer. Her remarkable career spanned a multitude of genres, leaving an indelible mark on the realms of biography, novels, and screenwriting.

Anne’s literary journey commenced at the young age of 22 when she sold her inaugural screenplay for the western “Quantez,” featuring Fred MacMurray, which hit the silver screens in 1957. This marked the genesis of a prolific career that encompassed 14 celebrity biographies, eight novels, three children’s books, two memoirs, and one autobiography.

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Among her notable works, “Vivien Leigh: A Biography” stood as a pinnacle, gracing The New York Times’s hardcover best-seller list for an impressive 19 weeks in 1977. Anne’s pen danced across the lives of iconic figures, including Vivien Leigh, Katharine Hepburn, Judy Garland, Barbra Streisand, Maria Callas, Ronald Reagan, and Diana, Princess of Wales.

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Beyond her skillful portrayal of others, Anne turned the lens inward, offering readers a glimpse into her own life through two memoirs and an autobiography. Her ability to weave compelling narratives extended beyond the written word, as evidenced by her screenplay for the British thriller “A Question of Adultery” (1958), later released in the United States as “The Case of Mrs. Loring.” Additionally, she collaborated with Sidney Buchman on early drafts of the screenplay for “Funny Girl” (1968).

A child performer on radio and stage, Anne Edwards not only chronicled the lives of luminaries but also shaped her narrative in various artistic endeavors. Her first novel, “The Survivors,” surfaced in 1968, showcasing her versatility as an author.

Anne’s legacy extends beyond the pages of her works, reaching into the hearts of those captivated by her storytelling prowess. Her daughter, Catherine Edwards Sadler, confirmed her passing on January 20, underlining the significance of a life well-lived and a literary journey that touched the lives of countless readers. In this final chapter, Anne Edwards leaves behind a rich tapestry of words that will continue to resonate with admirers and literary enthusiasts alike.