Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, she embarked on a career in acting during the early 1940s. Her breakthrough role came with the film "The Song of Bernadette," earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress. Known for her expressive performances, she starred in classics like "Duel in the Sun," "Love is a Many-Splendored Thing," and "Portrait of Jennie." Her collaborations with legendary directors and her dynamic range cemented her status as a Hollywood icon. She retired from acting in the early 1970s.