Born May 4, 1929, in Brussels, Belgium, Audrey Kathleen Ruston — the daughter of a baroness mother and a British businessman father — took the surname her father added to his name, and became Audrey Hepburn.
She spent her early years living between Belgium, England, and the Netherlands, at the height of World War II. Both during and after the war she studied ballet — her first love — and throughout her life she maintained that very distinctive physique of a ballerina.
When the family moved to London, she wound up working as a chorus girl, and after appearing in small roles in several British films — and then starring in the 1951 Broadway play, Gigi — Hepburn played the lead role in Roman Holiday in 1953. Her co-star in that film, Gregory Peck, adored her and remained a lifelong friend. She was the first actress to win an Oscar, a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA for that single performance.
Hepburn went on to star in a number of films, including Sabrina, Breakfast at Tiffany's, My Fair Lady, and Charade. When she was cast in the romantic Charade with Cary Grant, he was worried about the age difference between them, so they changed the plot to make it so she pursued him, rather than vice versa.
On this week's Flicks in Five, we'll hear some of Henry Mancini's score to Charade.
Original trailer — Charade
Love the music?
Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.
Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.
YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.
