Karolyn Grimes
ActingAbout Karolyn Grimes
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.
Karolyn Grimes Movies & Career Overview
The filmography of Karolyn Grimes reflects a strong mix of popular and critically appreciated roles. Across 15 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.
Dominant Genre
A large portion of Karolyn Grimes's work falls within the Drama genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.
Success Ratio
Approximately 67% of Karolyn Grimes's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.
One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains Sweet and Low, which stands out as a key performance.
Best Karolyn Grimes Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Karolyn Grimes's career based on audience ratings.
Full Filmography
Every movie Karolyn Grimes has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | A Night at the Movies: Merry Christmas! | Self - Interviewee / Zuzu Bailey | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1987 | James Stewart: A Wonderful Life | Self (archive footage) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1951 | Honeychile | Effie | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1950 | Rio Grande | Margaret Mary | Hit | Similar → |
| 1949 | Lust for Gold | Young Martha | Average | Similar → |
| 1948 | Albuquerque | Myrtle Walton | Hit | Similar → |
| 1947 | The Bishop's Wife | Debby Brougham | Hit | Similar → |
| 1947 | Mother Wore Tights | Iris - Age 6 (uncredited) | Average | Similar → |
| 1947 | The Private Affairs of Bel Ami | - | Average | Similar → |
| 1947 | Philo Vance's Gamble | Pat Roberts | Average | Similar → |
| 1947 | Sweet and Low | Tammie | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1946 | It's a Wonderful Life | Zuzu Bailey | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1946 | Blue Skies | Mary Elizabeth Adams | Average | Similar → |
| 1946 | Sister Kenny | Carolyn (uncredited) | Hit | Similar → |
| 1945 | Pardon My Past | Stephanie Pemberton | Hit | Similar → |
Karolyn Grimes - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Karolyn Grimes?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Karolyn Grimes is "Sweet and Low" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Karolyn Grimes acted in?
Karolyn Grimes has been featured in at least 15 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Karolyn Grimes?
Other notable films include "It's a Wonderful Life", "A Night at the Movies: Merry Christmas!", and "Honeychile".