Ketti Frings

Ketti Frings, born Katherine Hartley on February 28, 1909, in Columbus, Ohio, was a distinguished American playwright, screenwriter, and librettist. She rose to prominence in the mid-20th century with her emotionally resonant dramas and adaptations, earning acclaim for her ability to translate complex literary works to the stage.

Frings is best known for her play Look Homeward, Angel (1957), adapted from the novel by Thomas Wolfe. The play was a critical and commercial success, winning the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1958. Her sensitive adaptation preserved the lyrical tone of Wolfe’s novel while crafting a compelling theatrical narrative.

Though primarily known as a playwright and screenwriter, Frings also contributed to musical theatre. She wrote the libretto for the musical Walking Happy (1966), with music by Jimmy Van Heusen and lyrics by Sammy Cahn. The musical, a cheerful adaptation of Hobson’s Choice, received several Tony nominations and allowed Frings to showcase her talents in a lighter, more comedic vein.

Frings had a successful career in Hollywood as well, writing screenplays for films such as The File on Thelma Jordon and Come Back, Little Sheba. Her work often focused on nuanced, psychologically rich characters, particularly women struggling with identity and social constraints.

Ketti Frings died on February 11, 1981, in Los Angeles, California. Her ability to craft deeply human stories in both dramatic and musical formats has earned her a respected place in American theatre and film history.