Grayson West
Audrey Hepburn is one of Hollywood’s most beloved icons for her grace, elegance, and humanitarian efforts. Her life was as remarkable as her on-screen presence, marked by resilience, talent, and compassion for others. Here are 15 fascinating things to know about the iconic actress and humanitarian that celebrate her enduring legacy.
Audrey Hepburn isn’t her real name
This iconic actress was born Audrey Kathleen Ruston in Brussels, Belgium, on May 4, 1929. She later adopted the stage name “Hepburn” from her father’s surname. Her name change marked the beginning of her illustrious career in the arts.
She’s a member of the EGOT club
In 1954, Audrey Hepburn achieved a significant milestone by winning the Oscar for her role in Roman Holiday and accepting a Tony Award for her performance in Ondine on Broadway. Hepburn joined an exclusive group of artists known as EGOTs, having been honored with an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony during her illustrious career. Regrettably, the Grammy and the Emmy came after her death.
She spoke five languages
Audrey was a polyglot, fluent in English, Dutch, French, Spanish, and Italian. Her linguistic skills were proof of her intelligence and were incredibly useful in her international humanitarian work. The ability to communicate in multiple languages endeared her to people worldwide.
Audrey’s first role was in an educational film
Her first screen role was in a 1948 educational travel film, “Dutch in Seven Lessons.” Though it was a modest beginning, this experience sparked her passion for acting. Her talent was soon recognized, leading to more significant roles in theater and film.
She almost starved to death during World War II
During World War II, Audrey suffered severe malnutrition while living in the Netherlands under Nazi occupation. She and her family endured extreme hardships, including near starvation. These profoundly impacted her and fostered her lifelong commitment to humanitarian causes.
She joined the Dutch resistance
As a teenager, Audrey contributed to the Dutch resistance against the Nazis during World War II. She used her ballet training to perform in clandestine “black performances” to raise money for the resistance. Her bravery during these years shaped her compassionate worldview.
She initially wanted to pursue a career in ballet
Her first love was ballet; she trained rigorously to become a ballerina. She studied under leading figures in ballet, including the famous Marie Rambert. However, malnutrition during the war affected her physique, and she had to transition to acting.
Audrey met her first husband at a Roman Holiday premiere
She met her first husband, Mel Ferrer, at the “Roman Holiday” premiere in 1953. Their shared love for the arts brought them together, and they married in 1954. Ferrer and Hepburn worked on several projects together and had a son together.
Hepburn got an Oscar for her performance in “Roman Holiday”
Audrey’s portrayal of Princess Ann in “Roman Holiday” not only garnered her the Academy Award for Best Actress but also launched her into the spotlight, solidifying her position as a prominent Hollywood star. Her performance captivated audiences with its charm, elegance, and genuine portrayal.
Holly Golightly’s iconic black dress fetched almost $1 million at an auction
In the movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” Audrey Hepburn wears a famous black dress designed by Hubert de Givenchy. This dress sold for over $1 million at a Christie’s auction in 2006, solidifying its place in fashion history.
There’s a rare tulip named after her
In 1990, the Dutch Royal Horticultural Society honored her by naming a tulip variety after her, and she presented the first official Hepburn Tulip to her elderly aunt Jacqueline. The Audrey Hepburn tulip is a delicate white flower that reflects her timeless beauty and grace.
She was a UNICEF Special Ambassador
Audrey’s most passionate role was as a UNICEF Special Ambassador, beginning in 1989. She traveled to some of the world’s most impoverished and distressed regions to advocate for children’s rights and well-being.
A statue of Hepburn can be found at UNICEF’s headquarters
In recognition of her tireless work, a statue of Audrey Hepburn stands at UNICEF’s headquarters in New York. The sculpture depicts her holding a child, symbolizing her unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes.
Audrey Hepburn received the highest civilian honor
In 1992, Hepburn was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the top civilian awards in the United States. This award recognized her significant contributions to the arts and her humanitarian efforts. It was a fitting tribute to a woman who dedicated her life to helping others.
She was a fashion muse for acclaimed designer Hubert de Givenchy
Audrey’s collaboration with designer Hubert de Givenchy began with the film “Sabrina” in 1954. Givenchy’s elegant designs became synonymous with Hepburn’s on-screen and off-screen persona. Their partnership revolutionized fashion and solidified her status as a style icon.
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