Who was Judy Balaban? Veteran American Actress Dead at 91

Judy Balaban, a woman whose life was steeped in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s golden age, has passed away at the age of 91. Her remarkable journey included dating notable figures like Montgomery Clift and Merv Griffin, marrying Tony Franciosa, and even serving as one of Grace Kelly’s bridesmaids at her wedding to Prince Rainier of Monaco.

Balaban’s passing occurred on a Thursday night in a Los Angeles hospital, as confirmed by her dear friend, the distinguished author and documentary filmmaker, Cari Beauchamp.

Born as Judith Rose Balaban on October 13, 1932, in Chicago to Tillie and Barney Balaban, she was part of a family deeply embedded in the entertainment industry. Her father, Barney Balaban, co-owned a chain of theaters before ascending to the presidency of Paramount in 1936, a position he held until 1964. His influence on the studio’s legacy was significant.

Judy’s family tree was graced with artistic talents. Her brother, Red Balaban, was a noted jazz musician, while her half-brother, Burt Balaban, left his mark as a film producer, contributing to works like the 1960 film “Murder, Inc.”

The family’s journey led them from Chicago to New York, as her father assumed the Paramount role. Judy completed her high school education in Washington, D.C. but eventually returned to Manhattan, where she delved into the fashion industry.

In the early 1950s, Judy Balaban found herself in the spotlight as she dated Montgomery Clift, who was then making films such as “A Place in the Sun.” During this time, she was also involved with Merv Griffin and enjoyed watching him perform at a nightclub. It was during this phase that her life took a transformative turn when she was introduced to Tony Kanter, who would become her husband. Their marriage opened the door to Hollywood.

Balaban’s Hollywood connections extended to her close friendship with Grace Kelly, facilitated by Kanter, who happened to be Kelly’s agent. Tony Kanter, in his illustrious career, represented some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Marilyn Monroe, Marlon Brando, and Paul Newman. Kelly affectionately referred to Judy as “Judybird,” while Judy lovingly called Kelly “Graciebird.”

Judy Balaban’s life was a dazzling tapestry of Hollywood’s most glamorous moments, and her passing marks the end of an era in the history of Tinseltown.