Ann Blyth, Oscar-Nominated ‘Mildred Pierce’ Actress, Dies at 98 She was just 17 when she played Joan Crawford’s ungrateful daughter in the classic 1945 melodrama. It was the high point of a robust but short film career. Ann Blyth, left, and Joan Crawford in the 1945 film “Mildred Pierce.” The movie, a hit, revived Crawford’s flagging career, and Ms. Blyth’s performance earned her an Oscar nomination for best supporting actress. Credit...Warner Bros.