Mansfield gained notoriety after playing the role of fictional actress Rita Marlowe in Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? (1955–1956) on Broadway, which she reprised in the film adaptation of the same name in 1957. Although her film career was short-lived, she had several box-office successes, and won a Theatre World Award and Golden Globe Award. A sex symbol of the 1950s and early 1960s, Mansfield was known for her publicity stunts and well-publicized personal life. Jayne Mansfield (born Vera Jayne Palmer Ap– June 29, 1967) was an American actress, singer, nightclub entertainer, and Playboy Playmate.