Born in Chicago, Illinois, Fox was the niece of American novelist and playwright Edna Ferber.
[1] She studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Art after leaving finishing school, and began her career with the Westport Country Players.
[3] Fox was known as a "popular character actress" and also performed in radio plays.
[4] Her first romantic lead was playing in the radio broadcast, Manhattan At Midnight in 1940.
[7] Janet Fox played the role of a librarian in an episode of The Phil Silvers Show.