Karolyn Grimes

Biography

Karolyn Grimes (born July 4, 1940) is an American actress. At age 6, Karolyn Grimes played the role of Zuzu Bailey in the holiday film It's a Wonderful Life (1946). Her childhood film career spanned 16 movies, but she is best remembered for playing the daughter of George and Mary Bailey (James Stewart and Donna Reed). The petals from her rose symbolize the values of family, friends and life itself in the 1946 classic, and it is Zuzu who speaks the movie's most memorable line, "Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings." In recent years, Karolyn has carried on the spirit of It's a Wonderful Life (1946), serving as the film's most active and appealing ambassador.

Known For

It's a Wonderful Life

as The Bailey Child - Zuzu

Rio Grande

as Margaret Mary

The Bishop's Wife

as Debby Brougham

Lust for Gold

as Young Martha

Blue Skies

as Mary Elizabeth Adams

The Private Affairs of Bel Ami

Albuquerque

as Myrtle Walton

Sister Kenny

as Carolyn (uncredited)

Mother Wore Tights

as Iris - Age 6 (uncredited)

A Night at the Movies: Merry Christmas!

as Self - Interviewee / Zuzu Bailey