
Jean Adair
Jean Adair, born Violet McNaughton (Hamilton, June 13, 1873 – New York, May 11, 1953), was a Canadian-born, naturalized American actress. She began her career in vaudeville, later establishing herself as a respected and prolific stage actress on Broadway. Although her stage career was long and consistent, her name is inextricably linked to the role of Aunt Martha Brewster in the hit comedy *Arsenic and Old Lace*. After originating the role on stage, she reprised it with memorable effectiveness in the 1944 film adaptation of the same name, directed by Frank Capra, starring alongside Josephine Hull and Cary Grant. Her filmography also includes other appearances, including a small but significant role in *The Naked City* (1948) and *Something in the Wind* (1947). Although she did not receive any major awards, her iconic portrayal of the lovable and naive poisoner has secured her a lasting place in the history of stage and screen comedy.

