Bing Crosby's last concert was in Brighton, England on October 12, 1977, two days before his death. Gracie was in attendance and Crosby's very last photograph was taken with her.
A symbol of courage and hope, and a huge, sentimental favorite during Depression-riddled England, her popularity ended abruptly when she moved to the United States during the war years, never quite winning her public back even when she returned. She maintained with cabaret performances and musical tours.
Created a Dame in early 1979, a few months before she died.
Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, 1979.
Gracie's first 'serious' stage role was 'Her Last Affaire (1936)' but she was dropped from the film version and her role was taken by Googie Withers.
Her last recording "The Golden Years of Gracie Fields" was made in 1975 at age 77.
Her soprano was so unique and distinctive, she was once encouraged to go into opera, but declined, feeling that her own interpretive style gave more pleasure to her fans.
Highest paid film star in the world in 1937.
Received the Order of Officer Sister of St. John of Jerusalem in 1938 for her hospital/charity work.
She was awarded a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Radio at 6125 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California.
She was born over a chip shop.
Suffered from cancer of the cervix in 1939 and nearly died, but it went into remission following an operation. She received over 250,000 "get-well" cards.