Although Olson hated the script to Big Jim McLain (1952), an anti-communist movie, she figured that six weeks in Hawaii and a chance to work with an iconic star like John Wayne seemed a good enough reason to accept. Besides, she thought the film would flop and nobody would see it. She didn't count on the constant TV exposure the film has had and says people stop her all the time to say they've seen her in it. Olson is a staunch liberal Democrat and she said she and Wayne would often have political arguments but she would always let Wayne have the last word. She also said he loved women and was a flirt but never crossed the line and was always the perfect gentleman.
Her then-husband Alan Jay Lerner's 1956 musical play, "My Fair Lady" was dedicated "For Nancy, With Love".
Mother of Christopher Livingston
She was added to the Wall of Inspiration at her old high school, Wauwatosa East High School.
Sister-in-law of Jay Livingston.
Two daughters (Liza and Jennifer) by first husband Alan Jay Lerner, son by second husband Alan Livingston (former Chairman of the Board, Capitol Records).
Was up for the role of Delilah in Cecil B. DeMille's lavish 1949 costumer Samson and Delilah (1949), for which she candidly admitted she was not suited. Hedy Lamarr got the role.