Janis Paige, a revered figure in both Hollywood and Broadway, has passed away at the age of 101. Paige died of natural causes at her Los Angeles home on Sunday, as announced by her longtime friend Stuart Lampert.

Born Donna May Tjaden, Paige adopted her stage name from her grandfather’s name of Paige and Elsie Janis, famed for entertaining troops in World War I. Throughout her long and illustrious career, Paige made significant strides, starting with her major wartime break singing at the Hollywood Canteen. This pivotal moment led MGM to hire her for a brief role in "Bathing Beauty."

Paige's career took off when she signed a contract with Warner Bros., which began at $150 a week and eventually rose to $1,000 weekly. Her early films during the 1940s, including "Hollywood Canteen" and "Of Human Bondage," earned her critical acclaim and a devoted following.

One of Paige's most memorable moments on the big screen was dancing with Fred Astaire in the film "Silk Stockings." Her talent extended beyond the silver screen; she performed extensively on Broadway. Paige starred alongside Jackie Cooper in "Remains to Be Seen" and opposite John Raitt in "The Pajama Game." Other notable Broadway shows included "Gypsy," "Annie Get Your Gun," "Born Yesterday," and "The Desk Set." Her last appearance on Broadway was in 1984’s "Alone Together."

Paige's versatility as an entertainer was further showcased when she replaced Angela Lansbury in the New York production of "Mame" and toured with the show. In 2003, she resumed entertaining with a show called "The Third Act" in San Francisco, demonstrating her enduring appeal and passion for the stage.

In addition to her artistic achievements, Paige was also known for her advocacy. In 2018, she added her voice to the #MeToo movement, recounting a harrowing experience of being assaulted by Alfred Bloomingdale at the age of 22. This act of bravery underscored her commitment to using her platform for social justice.

Her personal life saw her through two brief marriages before she married songwriter Ray Gilbert in 1962. Gilbert, who won an Oscar for the song "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Da" from Disney's "Song of the South," shared a deep and enduring bond with Paige until his death in 1976.

Paige authored her autobiography, "Reading Between the Lines: A Memoir," which was published in 2020. This memoir offered a detailed account of her extraordinary life and career, providing fans with an intimate look at the woman behind the legend.

Paige's contributions to entertainment were not confined to one medium. Apart from her films and theater work, she also toured with Bob Hope and appeared in shows for US troops, further cementing her status as a beloved entertainer across various platforms.

Raised in Tacoma, Washington, Paige's humble beginnings did not predict the remarkable career she would forge. Her journey from a small-town girl to a Hollywood and Broadway icon is a testament to her immense talent, hard work, and dedication.

Janis Paige leaves behind a legacy that spans decades, having made indelible marks on both Hollywood and Broadway. Her passing is not only a loss to the entertainment industry but also to the countless fans who admired her work and were inspired by her life.

As the entertainment world mourns the loss of Janis Paige, it also celebrates the rich and varied legacy she has left behind—a legacy that will continue to inspire and influence for generations to come.

For more on Janis Paige's life and career, refer to the New York Post and Sky News.