What actress played Sarah Jane in “Imitation of Life”? The answer to this question brings us to a significant moment in American cinema history. The character of Sarah Jane in “Imitation of Life,” a 1959 drama film directed by John Sturges, was portrayed by actress Susan Kohner. Kohner’s portrayal of Sarah Jane, a young African American woman who passes as white to secure a job, was groundbreaking for its time and remains a pivotal performance in the history of African American cinema.
Susan Kohner was born on August 1, 1935, in Los Angeles, California. She came from a family of actors, which allowed her to explore her passion for the arts from a young age. Her performance in “Imitation of Life” was her film debut, and it was a role that would define her career. The film, based on Fannie Hurst’s novel of the same name, tells the story of two African American sisters, Delilah (played by Juanita Moore) and Sarah Jane (played by Kohner), who are separated at birth and raised by two different families. The film explores themes of racial identity, family, and the struggle for acceptance in a society that is deeply divided by race.
Imitation of Life was a landmark film in the civil rights movement, as it brought to light the issues of racial passing and the complexities of identity. Susan Kohner’s portrayal of Sarah Jane was both powerful and poignant, capturing the essence of a young woman who is torn between her true identity and the life she is forced to lead. Her performance was widely praised, and she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, making her the first African American actress to be nominated for an Oscar in that category.
Despite her groundbreaking role in “Imitation of Life,” Susan Kohner’s career did not take off in the same way as some of her contemporaries. She continued to work in film and television, but her roles were often limited to stereotypical portrayals of African American characters. However, her performance in “Imitation of Life” remains a testament to her talent and the impact she had on the industry. It was a performance that opened doors for other African American actors and paved the way for future discussions about race and identity in cinema.
Today, Susan Kohner is remembered for her brave and moving portrayal of Sarah Jane in “Imitation of Life.” Her performance not only broke barriers but also inspired a generation of actors and filmmakers to address the issues of race and identity in their work. As we reflect on the impact of her role, it is clear that what actress played Sarah Jane in “Imitation of Life” was not just a question but a pivotal moment in the history of American cinema.
