
Ona Munson
Ona Munson (1903-1955) was an American actress, active in theater, film, and radio. She began her career on the Broadway stage in the 1920s, achieving success as a singer and actress in various productions. Her transition to film established her internationally through the role for which she is universally remembered: Belle Watling, the brothel owner with a heart of gold, in the epic film *Gone with the Wind* (1939). Although this performance remains her most iconic, her filmography includes other significant roles in films such as *The Shanghai Gesture* (1941) and *The Red House* (1947). Parallel to her film career, Munson was a very popular voice on the radio, hosting her own successful program during the 1940s. Despite a varied career, her name remains inextricably linked to the character of Belle Watling, which represents her greatest and most enduring recognition from critics and the public.
