Glynis Johns, the iconic star of “Mary Poppins,” has reached the remarkable milestone of turning 100, but don’t expect her to be slowing down any time soon. In an exclusive interview with ABC7, the veteran actress shared her thoughts on her century-long journey through life and her illustrious career that has left an indelible mark on Hollywood.
Best known for her role as Winifred Banks in the timeless Disney classic “Mary Poppins,” Glynis Johns exudes grace and charm even as she enters her second century on Earth. During the candid conversation, she opened up about her enduring passion for acting and the key to her long-lasting career.
With her unmistakable wit, Johns quipped, “Turning 100 doesn’t make any difference to me.” Her youthful spirit shines through as she added, “Well, I looked very good for every age,” with a playful glint in her eye. It’s clear that age is just a number for this timeless star.
One of the most memorable moments in her career came when she graced the original cast of Stephen Sondheim’s 1973 musical and delivered an unforgettable performance of the classic song, “Send In The Clowns.” Reflecting on those days, Johns fondly recalled, “I got applause for that. I loved doing it. I felt it.” It’s no surprise that her exceptional talent earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical that year.
As the interview continued, Johns proudly displayed her well-deserved Tony Award, modestly stating, “It’s better than nothing, isn’t it?” Her humility shines as she shares her incredible journey in showbiz.
Throughout her illustrious career, Glynis Johns has embodied versatility, conquering stage, film, and television with grace and talent. She began her journey in the 1930s on the British stage and made her screen debut at a tender age of 15 in the 1938 feature “South Riding.” Her talents soon caught the eye of Hollywood, and she made her mark in American cinema with roles like “No Highway in the Sky,” earning an Academy Award nomination for her role in “The Sundowners” in 1960.
Johns’ dedication to her craft has spanned over three decades, enthralling audiences with her captivating performances. In recognition of her contributions to the world of entertainment, she was honored as a Disney Legend in 1998, solidifying her place in the hearts of countless fans around the globe.
Her most recent foray into film was in the comedy feature “Superstar,” which premiered in 1994, and though she may have taken a step back from the spotlight, her legacy continues to shine brightly.
As the interview drew to a close, Glynis Johns expressed her appreciation for the idea that her work would resonate with future generations. She described the prospect of her work touching the lives of future audiences as a “lovely thought,” adding, “That’s what I’d hoped.” Her words reflect the profound impact she has had on the world of entertainment.
Born in Pretoria, South Africa, on October 5, 1923, Glynis Johns’ remarkable journey from the British stage to Hollywood stardom is a testament to her unwavering dedication and immense talent. Her legacy is etched in the annals of showbiz history, and as she celebrates her centenary, we can’t help but be inspired by her enduring spirit and the mark she has left on the world of entertainment.
