Katharine Hepburn was an American actress whose legacy lives on today, even after her death in 2003. She won four Academy Awards for Best Actress, making her the most decorated actor of all time. In addition to her acting career, she was also a philanthropist and activist who supported causes such as civil rights and the protection of endangered species. In this post, we’ll take a look at Katharine’s life, her incredible filmography, awards & accolades, estimated net worth, legacy & influence, interesting facts, philanthropic activities, quotes by Katharine Hepburn, and more.
Early Life & Career
Katherine Hepburn was born May 12, 1907 in Hartford Connecticut. From an early age she had a passion for the stage and took ballet lessons as well as elocution classes. After attending Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania, she made her Broadway debut in 1932’s The Warrior’s Husband. She gained notoriety with the 1933 production of Christopher Strong before transitioning to Hollywood films in 1934’s A Bill of Divorcement.
In her 40 year long movie career, Katharine worked with some of the biggest names in showbiz, including Cary Grant, John Wayne and Spencer Tracy. Many of these collaborations were highly successful; together they earned two Oscars for their work in Guess Who’s Coming To Dinner (1967) and Woman Of The Year (1942). She went on to receive eight additional nominations over the course of her career.
Filmography Highlights
Throughout her career, Katharine appeared in dozens of films that have become classics today. Here are some highlights from her filmography:
- Bringing Up Baby (1938): Often cited as one of the greatest screwball comedies ever produced, this movie starred Hepburn alongside Cary Grant. It follows the pair’s madcap misadventures as they attempt to locate an elusive dinosaur bone.
- Philadelphia Story (1940): A romantic comedy about exes reuniting at a high society wedding. This iconic role won Katherine an Oscar for Best Actress.
- Long Day’s Journey Into Night (1962): An adaptation of Eugene O’Neill’s Pulitzer Prize winning play, it stars Hepburn alongside Ralph Richardson and Jason Robards Jr.
- On Golden Pond (1981): One of Katherine’s final films, it is widely regarded as one of the best films of 1981. She received her fourth Oscar nomination for her performance.
Awards & Accolades
In recognition of her incredible contributions to cinema, Katharine was given many awards throughout her lifetime. In 1967, she became the first person ever to win three consecutive Academy Awards for Best Actress. Her other major honors include receiving the Kennedy Center Honor in 1992 and being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1998.
Estimated Net Worth
At the time of her death in 2003, Katharine Hepburn was reported to have an estimated net worth of $600 million USD. Much of this wealth was accrued through shrewd investments during the heyday of her career, which allowed her to live comfortably until her passing.
Legacy & Influence
Although she may no longer be alive, Katharine’s influence continues to impact generations around the world. As well as creating a whole host of classic films, she is remembered as a feminist icon who rejected conventional norms and carved out a place for herself amongst male-dominated Hollywood circles.
Interesting Facts
Here are some fun facts about Katharine Hepburn you might not know:
- During World War II, she performed multiple shows each week at military bases in the US to support morale among troops overseas.
- At 74 years old she was cast opposite Humphrey Bogart in 1976’s The African Queen – becoming one of the oldest actresses ever to appear in a feature film.
- When asked what inspired her most while working on a project, she famously replied “the money”.
Philanthropic Activities
Throughout her life, Katharine was dedicated to supporting charitable causes both large and small. Amongst others, she donated funds towards conservation projects in Africa and Central America and regularly contributed to AIDS research programs. Additionally, she established an educational trust fund for actors and directors looking to gain experience or attend college courses related to theater arts.
Quotes By Katharine Hepburn
Katharine was renowned for speaking candidly about important issues and offering words of wisdom throughout her lifetime. Here are some famous quotes attributed to her:
- “Life can be wildly tragic at times, and I’ve had my share. But whatever happens to you, you have to keep a slightly comic attitude”
- “If you want to sacrifice the admiration of many men for the criticism of one, go ahead, get married”
- “Acting is the perfect idiot’s profession”
- “Enemies are so stimulating”
- “People say true friends should always hold hands, but true friendship is much more than that; it’s when two people know what the other wants without asking”
Conclusion
Katharine Hepburn remains an inspiration to generations past and present alike. Through her vast body of work and trailblazing spirit, she has left behind a powerful legacy that will continue to inspire us all into the future. We hope this article has shed light on Katharine’s remarkable life and achievements – from humble beginnings to achieving immense success – and helped deepen your appreciation for this formidable woman’s contribution to Hollywood history.