Darnell Family Genealogy & History

Linda Darnell, born Monetta Eloyse Darnell, was an acclaimed American actress known for her roles in classic films during the 1940s. She achieved significant success with her appearances in "The Mark of Zorro" (1940) alongside Tyrone Power, and the commercially successful "Forever Amber" (1947). Darnell received critical acclaim for performances in "Summer Storm" (1944), "Fallen Angel" (1945), and "A Letter to Three Wives" (1949), establishing her as one of 20th Century Fox's leading actresses.

Born in Dallas, Texas, Linda Darnell was one of four children to Calvin Roy Darnell, a postal clerk, and Margaret "Pearl" Brown, who had Cherokee ancestry. Her mother, Pearl, was instrumental in Linda's early career, pushing her towards acting and modeling from a young age.

Colleen Darnell, born Colleen Marie Manassa, is a renowned American Egyptologist celebrated for her expertise in the Late Period uses of the Underworld Books, ancient Egyptian military history, and New Kingdom Egypt literature. Known for her archaeological discoveries with the Moalla Survey Project, she specializes in the tactics of ancient battles like the Battle of Perire. Darnell's work on pharaoh Tutankhamun's military actions is featured in "Tutankhamun's Armies," co-authored with John Coleman Darnell. As a curator, she assembled the acclaimed "Echoes of Egypt" exhibition. Currently teaching Art History at Naugatuck Valley Community College, Darnell is also recognized for her vintage fashion sense and her online presence as the 'Vintage Egyptologist.'

Bruce Darnell, born on July 19, 1957, is a prominent American choreographer, model, and television personality well-known in Germany. His career highlights include serving as a jury member on popular TV shows such as Germany's Next Topmodel and Das Supertalent. Darnell gained fame for his American accent and unique style, making notable appearances in advertisements for C&A and O2. He has modeled for top brands like Kenzo, Issey Miyake, Hermès, and Calvin Klein across major fashion capitals like Paris and Milan. Additionally, Darnell launched his own perfume line and hosted several TV shows, including his own fashion-themed program, Bruce, on Das Erste.

Eric Darnell, born on August 21, 1961, in Prairie Village, Kansas, is a renowned American animator, director, and screenwriter. He gained prominence for co-directing the animated films "Antz" and the "Madagascar" series, working alongside Tim Johnson and Tom McGrath. Darnell's creative influence extends to projects like "Penguins of Madagascar" and his contributions to DreamWorks Animation. He co-founded Baobab Studios, focusing on animated virtual reality films, where he wrote and directed VR shorts like "Invasion!" and "Crow: The Legend," featuring notable voice actors such as John Legend and Oprah Winfrey.

Eric Darnell resides in Campbell, California, with his wife, Laura, and their two children, Rex and Leah.