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Entertainment • 3h ago

Judy Pace, Actress in ‘Peyton Place’ and ‘Cotton Comes to Harlem’, Dies at 83

Judy Pace, Actress in ‘Peyton Place’ and ‘Cotton Comes to Harlem’, Dies at 83
**Veteran Nollywood Actress and Hollywood Star, Judy Pace, Passes On at 83** Nigerian entertainment lovers will remember Judy Pace as a talented actress who left an indelible mark in the American film industry. Born Judy Lenteen Pace on June 15, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, she was a trailblazer in her own right, taking on complex and resilient roles that showcased her acting prowess. Judy Pace, a proud Angeleno with roots in Mississippi, grew up in a family of entrepreneurs. Her mother was a successful dress maker and owned Kitty's Place, reportedly the largest Black-owned ladies' apparel shop west of the Mississippi River at the time. Her father was an airplane mechanic. This blend of entrepreneurial spirit and creativity likely influenced Judy's bold approach to acting. Pace's acting journey was marked by memorable roles in iconic TV series and films. She became a household name for her portrayal of Vickie Fletcher in the ABC series Peyton Place and The Young Lawyers. Her performance earned her an NAACP Image Award, cementing her status as a leading lady in Hollywood. Nigerian fans of classic movies will also remember Judy Pace's role as Iris Brown in the 1970 box office hit Cotton Comes to Harlem. The film, directed by Ossie Davis, also starred Calvin Lockhart. Pace's character, Iris, was a complex and fiery personality, and her performance in the film remains iconic to this day. Judy Pace's versatility was evident in her range of roles, from the elegant artist in Three in the Attic (1968) to the fierce and resilient Linda Sayers in the landmark ABC telefilm Brian's Song (1971). She also starred alongside Ray Milland in the cult ecological horror thriller Frogs (1972). Throughout her illustrious career, Judy Pace demonstrated a willingness to take on challenging roles, often ahead of her time. Her legacy as a pioneering actress continues to inspire new generations of actors and actresses in Nigeria and around the world. Judy Pace passed away on Wednesday in her sleep while visiting relatives in Marina del Rey. She was 83 years old. Her passing is a testament to a life well-lived, marked by her passion for acting and her commitment to telling powerful stories that continue to captivate audiences today.
Source: Original Article • AI-enhanced version for clarity & Nigerian context

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