Last updated on: December 7, 2024

Frances Bergen was a talented woman who gained recognition for her modeling and acting career. She is also well known for being the mother of Candice Bergen, who is also an actress. While Frances did not chase the spotlight like her daughter, life and career helped shape Candice’s way into show business. Let us take a closer look at Frances Bergen’s life, her career, and her family.

Quick Facts About Frances Bergen

Early Life and Career

Born as Frances Westerman in 14 September 1922, Frances Bergen grew up in the United States where she discovered modeling and acting. Beginning her career in the 1920s, during the time Hollywood became something to talk about, Frances started her work both as a model and as an actress and began making a name for herself. Her most recognized role was being one of the “Chesterfield Girls” part of the famous cigarette advertisement.

In addition to modeling, Frances appeared in a few films during the 1930s. She was not as famous as some of her Hollywood peers, but she had a solid career. She also had a love for the arts and was involved in various creative projects over the years.

Marriage to Edgar Bergen

Frances Bergen was married to Edgar Bergen, the renowned ventriloquist, comedian, and actor. Edgar was prominent for his radio show, through which he used to enact with his two world-famous ventriloquist dummies: Charlie McCarthy and Mortimer Snerd. The two got married in 1945, and they had two daughters: Candice and Kris Bergen, who is the younger brother of Candice.

Frances came into the world of entertainment because of Edgar’s career in show business. Edgar was a big radio star and then went into television. Their home was always very creative and full of laughter. Frances never minded that Edgar spent long hours on his work.

Life as a Mother

Frances raised her two children, Candice and Kris, in a home full of show business energy. She helped guide her daughter, Candice, through her early years in Hollywood. Candice would go on to become a famous actress, starring in films and TV shows, including her iconic role in Murphy Brown.

Although Frances was not a public figure herself, she played a great role in shaping Candice. Candice would always say that her parents had molded her and had given her the confidence to succeed. Frances supported her daughter’s dreams and provided her with the tools to build a successful career.

Family Life and Legacy

Frances was a loving and supportive mother who balanced her own career with raising her children. Candice has spoken fondly of her mother, remembering how important Frances was in her life. Despite the fame that came with being married to Edgar Bergen, Frances managed to keep a sense of normalcy at home.

Frances also had her younger son, Kris Bergen, besides Candice. Kris has worked as an actor and also as an editor in films. He acted in the movie Look in 2007, but he also worked backstage in some movies, for example, DeepStar Six in 1989 and Blue Angels: Around the World at the Speed of Sound in 1994. Like Candice, Kris has earned his place in this industry, proving that there is talent scattered within the Bergen family.

READ ALSO: Candice Bergen Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More

Frances’ Later Life and Death

Frances Bergen was very active, participating in the arts while providing for her family. Frances passed away in 2006 at age 101. By that time, her daughter, Candice, had matured into one of the greatest actresses Hollywood ever knew. Candice also enjoyed an extremely successful acting career, earning many accolades from television and movies.

Although Frances was not as famous as some of the big stars during her time, her influence on her family is undeniable. Her children, especially Candice, are carrying on her legacy.

Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com