Jane Wyman developed her screen career through small parts and contract work before becoming a leading dramatic actress. She joined Warner Bros. in the 1930s and appeared in comedies, musicals, and supporting roles. Brother Rat in 1938 paired her with Ronald Reagan, whom she later married. Her work in The Lost Weekend in 1945 and The Yearling in 1946 helped establish her ability in serious drama; the latter brought her first Academy Award nomination.

Wyman won the best actress Oscar at the 1949 ceremony for her performance in the 1948 film Johnny Belinda, portraying a deaf woman in rural Nova Scotia. Further nominations followed for The Blue Veil and Magnificent Obsession. Her films during the 1950s ranged from domestic melodrama to musical comedy, including work with director Douglas Sirk. The roles that made her reputation often required restrained performance and the expression of emotional conflict within family and community life.

In 1955 Wyman moved into television production, hosting and frequently acting in the anthology series associated with her name and Fireside Theatre. After periods of reduced screen activity she returned to prominence as Angela Channing in Falcon Crest, which ran from 1981 to 1990. The role of the forceful vineyard matriarch introduced her to a new audience and brought further awards recognition. Health problems limited her appearances in the final season. She made occasional later appearances before retiring and died in California in 2007.