Jane Russell's daughter-in-law Etta Waterfield said Russell died at her home in Santa Maria Monday of a respiratory-related illness, according to the Associated Press.
Russell was discovered by industrialist and Hollywood mogul Howard Hughes. He cast her in the 1941 Western "The Outlaw," a controversial film at the time. Russell became an overnight success.
Russell starred in films with notables like Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope and Marilyn Monroe.
Russell was a huge film star in the 1940s and 1950s and remained in show business throughout her life.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
