Tony award winner and Disney icon leaves behind a storied legacy

In a poignant farewell to an entertainment icon, Glynis Johns, the esteemed Tony Award-winning actor renowned for her role in Disney’s Mary Poppins, has passed away at the age of 100. The actress, who portrayed Mrs. Winifred Banks in the beloved 1964 film alongside Julie Andrews, left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.

Confirmed by her publicist, Mitch Clem, Glynis Johns succumbed to natural causes while residing in West Hollywood, California. A Disney legend, she played a pivotal role in the Mary Poppins film, singing the memorable tune “Sister Suffragette,” and continued to enchant audiences with her performances on both stage and screen.

Born in South Africa in 1923 to concert pianist Alys Steele and actor Mervyn Johns, Glynis embarked on her illustrious career early, making her film debut at the age of 13. Her collaboration with Walt Disney included notable roles in films such as The Sword and the Rose and Rob Roy: The Highland Rogue before becoming the iconic Mrs. Banks in Mary Poppins.

Beyond her Disney contributions, Glynis Johns received an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress in the 1960 film The Sundowners. Her Broadway career soared with a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 1973, originating the role of Desiree Armfeldt in Stephen Sondheim’s A Little Night Music. Sondheim crafted the signature song “Send in the Clowns” specifically for Johns, showcasing her silvery voice.

In a career that spanned decades, Glynis Johns demonstrated versatility, appearing in films such as Miranda, Helter Skelter, and Mad About Men. She marked her Broadway debut in 1952 and continued to grace the stage with notable performances, leaving an indelible legacy in the world of entertainment.

Glynis Johns, a Disney legend since 1998, was not only celebrated for her artistic contributions but also held the title of the oldest living legend until her passing. Her storied career, which included television appearances and her own self-titled CBS sitcom in 1963, touched the hearts of audiences worldwide.

In remembrance of Glynis Johns, who was married four times and had one son, Gareth Forwood, the world pays tribute to a remarkable talent who graced the silver screen and the stage with her timeless charm and undeniable artistry.