One of Hollywood’s major brunette bombshell’s, Jane Russell‘s life, career, and legacy are fascinating. Though her career began with a slow start in The Outlaw (1943), Russell crafted a career that made her memorable in Hollywood and allowed her to work alongside many top stars of the day.

In Mean…Moody…Magnificent!: Jane Russell and the Marketing of a Hollywood Legend, Christina Rice portrays Russell as an actress and activist. Though some of her roles were more memorable than others, Russell was also a woman of many talents, particularly as a singer. Poised and confident both on-screen and off, Russell worked with many talented directors and always held her own with them, not shying away from standing up for herself.

Behind the scenes, Russell was deeply rooted in her faith. She devoted time to numerous fundraising and charitable causes. While recognized as a self-assured sex symbol on-screen, Russell had her share of struggles and challenging moments.

Rice offers a thorough and thoughtful depiction of Russell’s life, respectfully portraying Russell as a woman of many interests and talents who grappled with numerous obstacles throughout her life. Rice’s engaging biography on Russell captures Russell’s impact upon Hollywood on a personal and professional scale. After writing Ann Dvorak: Hollywood’s Forgotten Rebel, it is a delight to see Rice take on Jane Russell with another wonderful biography.

Mean…Moody…Magnificent!: Jane Russell and the Marketing of a Hollywood Legend is available for purchase through the University Press of Kentucky.