Audrey Hepburn

Audrey Hepburn, born Audrey Kathleen Ruston, was an extraordinary actress and humanitarian whose life was as captivating as her film roles. Recognized as both a cinematic icon and fashion trendsetter, she held a special place in the hearts of millions. The American Film Institute ranked her as the third-greatest female screen legend from Classical Hollywood cinema, and she was inducted into the International Best Dressed List Hall of Fame.

Audrey's childhood was marked by adventure, as she spent time in Belgium, England, and the Netherlands before finding her home on the silver screen. She began her dance training in Amsterdam with Sonia Gaskell at 14, eventually moving to London in 1948 to study under Marie Rambert. Her passion for performance led her to take roles as a chorus girl in West End musical theatre productions and, ultimately, to appear in several films.

Her breakthrough role came in 1953 when she starred opposite Gregory Peck in the romantic comedy Roman Holiday. This performance catapulted Audrey into stardom and made her the first actress ever to win an Oscar, a Golden Globe Award, and a BAFTA for a single performance. She continued her success with roles in Sabrina, Funny Face, The Nun's Story, Breakfast at Tiffany's, Charade, My Fair Lady, and Wait Until Dark.

Despite her dwindling film appearances after the late 1960s, Audrey made a memorable return with Robin and Marian opposite Sean Connery in 1976. Her last recorded performances were in the 1990 documentary television series Gardens of the World with Audrey Hepburn, for which she received a Primetime Emmy Award.

Throughout her life, Audrey won numerous accolades, including three BAFTA Awards for Best British Actress in a Leading Role. She was also honored with BAFTA's Lifetime Achievement Award, the Golden Globe Cecil B. DeMille Award, the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award, and the Special Tony Award. Audrey remains one of only seventeen people to have won Academy, Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Awards.

In her later years, Audrey devoted much of her time to UNICEF, a cause she had supported since 1954. From 1988 to 1992, she worked tirelessly in some of the poorest communities across Africa, South America, and Asia. In recognition of her humanitarian efforts, President George H. W. Bush presented Audrey with the US Presidential Medal of Freedom in December 1992. Sadly, just a month later, she passed away from appendiceal cancer at her home in Tolochenaz, Vaud, Switzerland, at the age of 63.

Audrey Hepburn's life was one filled with talent, grace, and kindness. She will forever be remembered as an extraordinary actress and a selfless humanitarian who touched the lives of millions around the world.