Audrey Hepburn was a British actress and humanitarian, renowned for her film roles during Hollywood's Golden Age and her iconic status in popular culture. She became a symbol of grace and elegance, influencing fashion and beauty standards in America and beyond, while also using her fame to advocate for humanitarian causes.
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Audrey Hepburn won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in 'Roman Holiday' (1953), which launched her career and established her as a leading actress.
She is often remembered for her unique sense of style, heavily influenced by designer Hubert de Givenchy, which set trends in fashion that are still revered today.
Hepburn's performance in 'My Fair Lady' (1964) showcased her musical talent, although her singing was dubbed, highlighting the behind-the-scenes challenges of filmmaking.
During World War II, Hepburn worked as a nurse and participated in the Dutch resistance, which shaped her views on humanitarianism later in life.
Her legacy continues to inspire not just in film but also in charitable work, with the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund established to support her humanitarian efforts.
Review Questions
How did Audrey Hepburn's style influence American culture during her career?
Audrey Hepburn's style had a significant impact on American culture as she epitomized elegance and sophistication through her film roles and public appearances. Her collaboration with designer Hubert de Givenchy popularized minimalist yet chic fashion, making items like the little black dress synonymous with her image. This shift in fashion not only influenced women's clothing choices but also redefined beauty standards, showcasing a more refined and less ostentatious approach that resonated with audiences.
Discuss the dual aspects of Audrey Hepburn’s career as both an actress and a humanitarian.
Audrey Hepburn's career can be seen through the lens of her dual impact as a celebrated actress and a passionate humanitarian. While she gained fame for iconic roles in films like 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' and 'Roman Holiday', she also dedicated much of her later life to advocating for children's rights as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. This combination of artistic achievement and humanitarian work not only solidified her legacy in cinema but also highlighted the importance of using celebrity status for social good.
Evaluate how Audrey Hepburn's contributions to film and society reflect broader cultural changes in America during the 20th century.
Audrey Hepburn's contributions to film and society reflect significant cultural shifts in America throughout the 20th century. As a leading lady during Hollywood's Golden Age, she challenged traditional gender roles by portraying independent and complex female characters. Additionally, her humanitarian efforts illustrated a growing awareness among celebrities about social responsibility, mirroring broader societal changes regarding activism and philanthropy. Hepburn’s legacy reveals how film stars can transcend their roles on screen to become influential figures in promoting positive societal change.
Related terms
Breakfast at Tiffany's: A classic 1961 romantic comedy film starring Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly, which showcases her fashion influence and became a cultural touchstone.
Hepburn's Humanitarian Work: Audrey Hepburn's later life involved extensive humanitarian efforts as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, advocating for children's rights and welfare around the world.
A period from the late 1920s to the early 1960s characterized by the rise of major film studios and the establishment of movie stars, with Hepburn being one of the most celebrated figures.