Elaine Elizabeth Shepard (April 2, 1913 – September 6, 1998) was a notable actress of Broadway and film during the 1930s and 1940s, later transitioning into a successful career as a journalist and author. Her acting debut occurred in 1936 with the Republic serial *Darkest Africa*, where she portrayed the character Valerie Tremaine. Following this, Shepard secured leading roles in various films, including the 1940 comedy *You Can't Fool Your Wife*, which starred Lucille Ball. She also appeared in supporting roles in significant productions, such as a secretary in *Topper* and had uncredited parts in *Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo* and the 1946 *Ziegfeld Follies*. One of her more notable performances was in the musical *Seven Days Ashore*, where she played the lead romantic interest for a group of sailors on leave.
In addition to her film work, Shepard made minor contributions to Broadway, including a role in the 1940 Cole Porter musical *Panama Hattie*. Eventually, she stepped away from acting to pursue freelance journalism, gaining recognition for her coverage of the Vietnam War. Her experiences during this tumultuous period culminated in her 1967 book *The Doom Pussy*, an account that uniquely captured the early days of aviation in the conflict and introduced the phrase "the whole nine yards."
In addition to her film work, Shepard made minor contributions to Broadway, including a role in the 1940 Cole Porter musical *Panama Hattie*. Eventually, she stepped away from acting to pursue freelance journalism, gaining recognition for her coverage of the Vietnam War. Her experiences during this tumultuous period culminated in her 1967 book *The Doom Pussy*, an account that uniquely captured the early days of aviation in the conflict and introduced the phrase "the whole nine yards."
