Have you ever watched an old Western film and found yourself wondering about the actors behind the characters? If you’ve seen *Angel and the Badman*, you might’ve asked, “How old was Gail Russell in that movie?” That’s exactly what we’re diving into today. This classic 1947 Western, starring John Wayne and Gail Russell, still captures the hearts of film lovers. But for fans curious about the actress’s age during filming, the answer might surprise you.

Gail Russell was a rising star in Hollywood when she landed her role in *Angel and the Badman*. She played the part of Penny, a Quaker woman who softens the heart of Wayne’s rough character, “The Badman.” Her performance was widely praised, and her presence in the film is one of the many reasons it remains popular today. But back then, she was still quite young—so just how old was she?

Knowing Gail Russell’s age during the filming of *Angel and the Badman* gives us a better picture of where she was in her life and career. It also helps connect the dots between the actress and the character she portrayed. Let’s break it all down, from her early life to the movie’s release, so you can get a full sense of how old Gail Russell was in this iconic film.

• Robert Charles Chien

Table of Contents

• Who Was Gail Russell?
• How Old Was Gail Russell in *Angel and the Badman*?
• About *Angel and the Badman*
• Gail Russell’s Career Highlights
• Frequently Asked Questions

Who Was Gail Russell?

Gail Russell was born on September 21, 1924, in Evanston, Illinois. She started modeling at a young age and was signed by Paramount Pictures in the early 1940s. Her charm and acting talent quickly caught the attention of Hollywood, leading to roles in several notable films.

She was known for her delicate features and a soft, innocent screen presence that made her a favorite in romantic dramas and Westerns. Over the course of her career, she appeared in more than 30 films, working alongside some of the biggest names in the business.

Gail Russell – Personal Details

How Old Was Gail Russell in *Angel and the Badman*?

The filming of *Angel and the Badman* took place in 1946, and the movie was released in 1947. Gail Russell was born in September 1924, so during filming, she was 21 years old. By the time the film hit theaters, she had just turned 22.

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That’s quite young for someone taking on a leading role in a major motion picture, especially one starring John Wayne. It’s also worth noting that this was only her second feature film—her debut came just a year earlier in *The Uninvited* (1944).

So, to answer the question clearly: Gail Russell was 21 years old during the filming of *Angel and the Badman* and turned 22 before its release.

About *Angel and the Badman*

*Angel and the Badman* is a Western film directed by James Edward Grant and released by Republic Pictures. It was one of John Wayne’s biggest box office successes, and it also marked a turning point in his career as a leading man in Westerns.

The story revolves around Wayne’s character, “Quirt Evans,” a notorious outlaw who is wounded during a robbery and taken in by a Quaker family. There, he begins to change his ways, especially after falling for Penny (played by Gail Russell), the daughter of the family.

The film was a departure from typical Westerns of the time, focusing more on character development and moral themes than on action or gunfights. Gail Russell’s role was central to that emotional arc.

Gail Russell’s Career Highlights

Though her life was tragically short—she passed away at the age of 30—Gail Russell left a lasting impact on Hollywood. Here are a few of her most memorable roles and achievements:

• The Uninvited (1944) – Her film debut, a ghost story that earned critical praise.
• Angel and the Badman (1947) – Her breakout role that brought her wider recognition.
• Wake of the Red Witch (1948) – A seafaring adventure film co-starring John Wayne again.
• She Wore a Yellow Ribbon (1949) – Directed by John Ford, this was part of his famed cavalry trilogy.

Though she never achieved major stardom, Gail Russell was admired for her poise and elegance on screen. Her performances were often praised for their warmth and sincerity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Was Gail Russell married?
Yes, Gail Russell was married twice. Her first husband was actor John Wayne’s stunt double, Bob Bralove. Her second marriage was to hotel executive Thomas C. Moore.

What happened to Gail Russell?
Gail Russell passed away in 1955 at the age of 30 from breast cancer. Her death came suddenly and shocked fans and colleagues in Hollywood.

Did Gail Russell win any awards?
She didn’t win any major awards, but she was nominated for a Golden Globe in 1945 for her role in *The Uninvited*. She also received positive reviews throughout her career.

For more information on Gail Russell’s life and career, you can explore her IMDb page, which offers a detailed filmography and biographical information. Learn more about on our site, and link to this page .