Olivia De Havilland: Life, Career, And Legacy Of A Hollywood Icon

Olivia de Havilland, born on July 1, 1916, in Tokyo, Japan, is known as one of the most celebrated actresses of her time. She became a household name with her unforgettable role as Melanie Hamilton in the epic film Gone with the Wind. Throughout her career, de Havilland not only dazzled audiences but also made significant contributions to the film industry, becoming a pioneer for actors' rights. Her journey from a young girl in Japan to an Oscar-winning actress is both inspiring and remarkable.

Who Was Olivia de Havilland?

Olivia de Havilland signed with Warner Brothers in 1935, and her breakout role came in 1939 when she portrayed Melanie in the classic film Gone with the Wind. This role not only showcased her acting prowess but also earned her widespread recognition. Over her illustrious career, de Havilland won Academy Awards for her performances in To Each His Own and The Heiress, highlighting her versatility and talent.

Early Career

Olivia's early years were marked by a passion for the arts. After moving to California with her mother and younger sister, Joan, following her parents' divorce, she began her acting career. A significant turning point came in 1933 when she played Hermia in a Max Reinhardt production of A Midsummer Night's Dream at the Hollywood Bowl. This stage performance opened doors for her in the film industry.

In 1935, de Havilland reprised her stage role in the film adaptation alongside stars Dick Powell and James Cagney. Shortly after, she secured a seven-year contract with Warner Brothers, which led to numerous successful films. Her partnership with co-star Errol Flynn began with the classic adventure film Captain Blood, further establishing her as a leading actress in Hollywood.

Iconic Role in 'Gone with the Wind'

De Havilland's role in Gone with the Wind was a defining moment in her career. As Melanie Hamilton, she portrayed a character that was gentle and kind, contrasting sharply with Vivien Leigh's Scarlett O'Hara. This film, set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, has become a cultural landmark and is still celebrated today.

Her portrayal earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, though she lost to Hattie McDaniel, who made history as the first African American to win an Oscar. Two years later, de Havilland received another nomination, this time for Best Actress for her role in Hold Back the Dawn, but again faced competition from her sister, Joan Fontaine, who took home the award.

Legal Battle with Warner Brothers

Despite her success, de Havilland grew frustrated with Warner Brothers over time. She felt that quality roles were scarce and became determined to fight for her rights as an actress. When her contract neared its end in 1943, the studio attempted to claim time for which she had been suspended, leading to a legal battle.

The case reached the California Supreme Court in 1945, resulting in a landmark ruling in her favor. The ruling established the "de Havilland Rule," which limited studio contracts to seven calendar years, empowering actors in the industry. During her break from films, she engaged in radio work and supported soldiers during World War II, showcasing her commitment to social causes.

A Star Reborn

After her legal victory, de Havilland made a remarkable comeback with the film To Each His Own. Her portrayal of an unwed mother earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress, making her and her sister the only siblings to achieve leading category Oscars. This marked a new chapter in her career, showcasing her ability to tackle challenging roles.

In 1948, she starred in The Snake Pit, a groundbreaking film that addressed mental health issues, where she played a woman struggling with her sanity. Her performance was widely praised, further solidifying her status as a serious actress.

Later Work and Recognition

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, de Havilland continued to take on notable roles, including her performance in Hush ... Hush, Sweet Charlotte, where she starred alongside Bette Davis. She also appeared in popular disaster films like Airport '77 and ventured into television, making guest appearances on various shows.

In the 2000s, de Havilland received renewed accolades, including a special tribute from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in 2006. She was awarded the National Medal of Arts by President George W. Bush in 2008 and received the Legion of Honor from French President Nicolas Sarkozy in 2010, reflecting her significant contributions to cinema and culture.

Personal Life and Legacy

Olivia de Havilland lived in Paris since the mid-1950s and had notable relationships with various figures in Hollywood, including Howard Hughes and James Stewart. She was married twice, first to writer Marcus Goodrich and later to journalist Pierre Galante, both of which ended in divorce. Despite personal challenges, including the loss of her son, Benjamin, de Havilland remained a resilient figure.

She famously had a complex relationship with her sister, Joan Fontaine, with whom she had a long-standing feud. Upon Fontaine's passing in 2013, de Havilland expressed her sorrow, reflecting on their estranged relationship. This complicated family dynamic added depth to her personal narrative.

Final Days and Death

Olivia de Havilland passed away on July 26, 2020, in her sleep at her home in Paris, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and talent. Her career spanned decades, and she remains an inspiration for aspiring actors and actresses worldwide. De Havilland's commitment to fighting for actors' rights has paved the way for future generations in the entertainment industry.

Key Takeaways

Olivia de Havilland's life story is one of triumph, talent, and tenacity. Here are some key takeaways from her remarkable journey:

• De Havilland became a household name through her iconic role in Gone with the Wind.
• She fought for actors' rights, leading to the landmark "de Havilland Rule."
• Her performances earned her two Academy Awards, showcasing her exceptional talent.
• Despite personal challenges, she remained a resilient and influential figure in Hollywood.