Susan Peters

Peters in an early 1941 portrait for Warner Bros. as Suzanne Carnahan

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Peters driving in October 1947; her vehicle was refitted with a hand-accelerator and brakes to allow her to drive after her paralysis

Susan Peters (July 3, 1921 – October 23, 1952) was an American film actress whose career was active during the 1940s. Born Suzanne Carnahan in Spokane, Washington, Peters was discovered by a Warner Bros. talent scout while attending college. Her acting career began with small roles in various Warner Bros. films, but she gained significant attention and acclaim after her performance in the 1942 film Random Harvest, for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Early Life

Susan Peters was born to an affluent family in Spokane, Washington. She showed an early interest in acting, participating in school plays and local theater productions. After high school, she moved to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career, enrolling in college while seeking opportunities in the film industry.

Career

Peters' career took off after her role in Random Harvest, where she played the supportive sister of the male lead, played by Ronald Colman. Her performance was critically acclaimed, leading to more significant roles in films such as Song of Russia (1944), Assignment in Brittany (1943), and The Sign of the Ram (1948). Despite her success, Peters' career was marred by personal challenges, including a tragic accident in 1945 that left her paralyzed from the waist down.

Personal Life and Legacy

In 1943, Susan Peters married actor Richard Quine, but the couple divorced in 1948. Her life took a dramatic turn on January 1, 1945, when she accidentally shot herself while handling a rifle, leading to her paralysis. Despite her disability, Peters attempted to continue her acting career, performing in radio and taking on a few film roles that accommodated her condition. However, her health declined, and she faced depression and anorexia in her final years.

Susan Peters passed away on October 23, 1952, at the age of 31. Her life and career, though brief, left a lasting impact on Hollywood, highlighting the challenges faced by disabled actors and the need for greater inclusivity in the industry. Peters' story is remembered as one of talent, resilience, and tragedy.

Filmography

Peters' notable films include:

• Random Harvest (1942)
• Assignment in Brittany (1943)
• Song of Russia (1944)
• The Sign of the Ram (1948)

Her work in Random Harvest remains her most celebrated performance, showcasing her ability to convey depth and emotion.

Death

Susan Peters' health deteriorated significantly in the years following her accident. She struggled with kidney problems and pneumonia, compounded by her battle with anorexia. Her death in 1952 was attributed to bronchial pneumonia, a complication of her long-term health issues.

Legacy

Susan Peters is remembered not only for her contributions to film but also for her courage in the face of adversity. Her life story has been cited as an inspiration for discussions on disability rights and representation in the entertainment industry.