In the world of Hollywood, some stars shine brighter than others, and Jane Russell was one such luminary. Her debut movie, The Outlaw, catapulted her to fame even before anyone knew if she could act. The poster for the film, which boldly highlighted her 34D bosom, drew sharp criticism from the Catholic Church. So much so, that The Outlaw didn't receive a national release until 1950—seven years after its premiere in San Francisco. Can you imagine waiting that long for your big break?

Jane Russell: More Than a Pretty Face

While Jane Russell's allure was undeniable, there was so much more to her than met the eye. She faced challenges that many of us can only begin to comprehend. Unable to have children of her own due to complications from an illegal abortion she endured at 18, Jane turned to her faith for strength. Her resilience led her to found an organization that placed over 50,000 children with loving families over four decades. Now, that's a legacy worth celebrating!

"She genuinely devoted a big part of her life to this cause and later on supported the foster care system in this country," explains Christina Rice, the author of Mean … Moody … Magnificent! Jane Russell and the Marketing of a Hollywood Legend, in an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly. Jane wasn't just a star; she was a beacon of hope for countless families.

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From Minnesota to Hollywood: A Star is Born

Jane Russell's journey to stardom began in Minnesota, where she was discovered by the legendary film mogul Howard Hughes at the tender age of 19. Despite the allure of Hollywood, their relationship remained strictly platonic. "Jane wasn't going to be taken advantage of and she never really was," Rice reveals. This self-assuredness allowed Jane to navigate the treacherous waters of fame with grace and dignity.

Jane Russell and Marilyn Monroe: Friends, Not Foes

In 1953, Jane Russell starred alongside Marilyn Monroe in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes. Rather than viewing Marilyn as a rival, Jane saw her as a friend. "Jane assumed the role of older sister," Rice shares. Jane even went so far as to fetch Marilyn from her dressing room each morning to ensure she was on time. While their friendship wasn't long-lasting, it was marked by mutual respect and admiration. That's the kind of camaraderie we need more of in Hollywood, don't you think?

Beneath the glitz and glamour of Jane's Hollywood career lay personal struggles and heartache. She married her high school sweetheart, Bob Waterfield, in 1943, but their hopes of starting a family were dashed when Jane discovered that the illegal abortion she had at 18 had left her sterile. "From that point forward, her faith played a big, big role in her life," Rice explains. Jane believed that the Lord had a plan for her, and she embraced it wholeheartedly.

Adopting Hope: Jane Russell's Philanthropic Heart

Jane and Bob adopted three children, but their journey wasn't without challenges. When the British courts questioned their rights to adopt their son Tommy, who was born in the U.K., Jane founded the World Adoption International Fund (WAIF). This organization became a lifeline for countless families navigating the complexities of international adoption. "WAIF wasn't just something she was putting her name on," Rice emphasizes. "She was very active and involved in the organization for over 40 years." That's dedication!

Unfortunately, Jane's life was not without its share of sorrow. Her first marriage ended in divorce after 25 years, and she lost her second husband, actor Roger Barrett, to a heart attack just two months after their wedding. Her final marriage to Col. John Peoples lasted 25 years until his untimely death from a heart attack. In her darkest moments, Jane turned to alcohol, but with the support of her family, she entered rehab at 79 and achieved sobriety. Her resilience was nothing short of remarkable.

When Jane passed away in 2011, she left behind a legacy of love, encompassing three children, eight grandchildren, and 10 great-grandchildren. "They're my kids," she proudly declared. "And they're all terrific." What an incredible testament to a life well-lived.