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Eleanore Cammack "Cammie" King, remembered for her unforgettable role as Bonnie Blue Butler in the classic film Gone with the Wind (1939), left an indelible mark on Hollywood despite her brief acting career. Born into a family with entertainment industry ties, King’s journey from child actress to public relations professional is a story of transition and resilience. This article delves into her life, career, and the legacy she left behind.
Quick Info Table
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Popular As | Cammie King |
| Occupation | Actress, Public Relations Officer |
| Date of Birth | August 5, 1934 |
| Birthplace | Los Angeles, California |
| Nationality | American |
| Parents | W. Cammack King, Eleanore King |
| Siblings | Diane King |
| Spouse | Walter “Ned” Pollock, Michael W. Conlon |
| Children | Matthew Pollock, Katharine Pollock |
| Notable Works | Gone with the Wind, Bambi |
| University | University of Southern California |
| Date of Death | September 1, 2010 |
| Place of Death | Fort Bragg, California |
Early Life and Family Background
Born on August 5, 1934, in Los Angeles, California, Cammie King was destined for the limelight. Her father, W. Cammack King, managed a chemical plant, while her mother, Eleanore King, was a schoolteacher. An interesting connection to the entertainment industry was her mother’s second marriage to Herbert Kalmus, the co-founder of Technicolor, a technology that revolutionized the film industry.
Cammie’s older sister, Diane King, also ventured into acting, suggesting that the performing arts were a family affair. This environment undoubtedly influenced Cammie’s early career choices.
The Iconic Role in Gone with the Wind
At just four years old, Cammie King was cast as Bonnie Blue Butler, the charming daughter of Rhett Butler and Scarlett O’Hara, in Gone with the Wind. The film, released in 1939, remains a cinematic masterpiece, and Cammie’s role, though small, was memorable. The casting process was extensive and competitive, but King’s natural talent shone through, earning her the part.
Reflecting on her acting career, King often humorously remarked that she "peaked at five," acknowledging the significance of her early achievements.
Voicing Faline in Disney’s Bambi
In 1942, King lent her voice to Faline, the love interest of Bambi in Walt Disney’s animated classic, Bambi. This role further cemented her place in Hollywood history, showcasing her versatility as a young performer. The film’s success and enduring popularity added to King’s lasting legacy in the entertainment world.
Education and Transition from Acting
After her brief stint in Hollywood, King shifted her focus to academics. She attended Marymount High School before enrolling at the University of Southern California, where she graduated in 1956 with a degree in communications. This educational background laid the foundation for her subsequent career in public relations.
Career in Public Relations
Following her education, King worked as a production assistant on the CBS-TV anthology series Climax!. She eventually transitioned into a long and successful career in public relations, including a notable tenure at the Mendocino Coast Chamber of Commerce. Her ability to connect with people and her communication skills made her a valuable asset in this field.
Personal Life and Family
In 1957, Cammie King married Walter "Ned" Pollock, with whom she adopted two children, Matthew and Katharine. Tragically, Pollock passed away from cancer in 1968. King later married Michael W. Conlon in 1971, though the marriage ended in divorce in 1975. Her father-in-law, Judd Conlon, was a musical arranger for Disney films, linking King back to the entertainment industry in a different capacity.
Later Years and Memoir
In her later years, King remained connected to her Hollywood roots, making a guest appearance on the game show To Tell the Truth in the early 2000s. In 2009, she published a memoir titled Bonnie Blue Butler: A Gone With the Wind Memoir, which she sold directly to fans. This work provided personal insights into her experiences on the set of the iconic film.
Financial Insights
Cammie King’s financial status reflected her diverse career path. While exact figures are not widely reported, her earnings from her early film roles, combined with her work in public relations, contributed to a comfortable lifestyle. The publication of her memoir also likely provided additional income, though it was more a labor of love than a significant financial venture.
Legacy and Impact
Cammie King frequently attended retrospectives with surviving cast members of Gone with the Wind, keeping the film’s spirit alive for new generations. Her contributions to cinema, though brief, left a lasting impression on audiences and the film industry alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What roles is Cammie King best known for?
A: Cammie King is best known for her role as Bonnie Blue Butler in Gone with the Wind and as the voice of Faline in Disney’s Bambi.
Q: Did Cammie King continue acting after her childhood?
A: No, Cammie King transitioned from acting to a career in public relations after completing her education.
Q: What was Cammie King’s education background?
A: She graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in communications.
Q: Did Cammie King write any books?
A: Yes, she published a memoir titled Bonnie Blue Butler: A Gone With the Wind Memoir in 2009.
Q: How did Cammie King pass away?
A: Cammie King passed away from lung cancer on September 1, 2010, in Fort Bragg, California.
Conclusion
Cammie King’s journey from a child actress to a public relations professional is a testament to her adaptability and resilience. Her roles in two iconic films, coupled with her contributions to public relations, have ensured her a place in both Hollywood history and the hearts of those who knew her. Through her memoir and public appearances, King continued to share her story, leaving a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
