Frances Chaney

Frances Chaney (July 23, 1915 – November 23, 2004) was a Russian-born American actress known for her work on stage, old-time radio, and television. Born Fanya Lipetz in Odessa, Russian Empire, she moved to Istanbul with her family before settling in the Bronx, New York City. Chaney attended Hunter College before pursuing a career in acting. She gained experience at Provincetown Playhouse and later received a scholarship at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre where she studied for two years. Chaney changed her name to Frances Chaney to increase her chances of securing roles. She is also remembered for being ostracized as pro-communist alongside her late blacklisted husband, Ring Lardner Jr.