United States Who is Olivia De Havilland?
Olivia Mary De Havilland (July 1, 1916 – July 26, 2020) was an American actress whose career spanned over six decades, making her one of the most enduring figures in Hollywood history. Born to British parents Walter Augustus De Havilland and Lilian Fontaine, she grew up alongside her older sister Joan, who also became a famous actress under the name Joan Fontaine.
De Havilland’s formative years were marked by creativity and competition with her sibling. Both sisters began acting at an early age, performing in local theater productions before moving to Hollywood where they both found success in the film industry. Despite their friendly rivalry, Olivia and Joan supported each other throughout their careers.
Olivia De Havilland’s rise to prominence began in earnest during the 1930s when she starred alongside Errol Flynn in swashbucklers such as The Adventures of Robin Hood. Her career took a significant turn with her role in Gone with the Wind (1939), where she played Melanie Hamilton. However, it was for her performances in romantic dramas like To Each His Own and The Heiress that De Havilland won two Academy Awards for Best Actress.
In addition to her acting prowess, Olivia was known for her activism within the entertainment industry. She famously sued Warner Bros., successfully challenging studio contracts in a landmark case that improved actors’ rights. Her legal victory paved the way for greater artistic freedom and control over their careers for future generations of performers.
De Havilland’s personal life included two marriages. She married Marcus Goodrich, an American businessman, and later Pierre Galante, a French journalist with whom she had her only child, Gisèle Galante. Olivia was also a member of the Democratic Party and used her platform to advocate for social causes.
Olivia De Havilland’s legacy is not just defined by her performances on screen but by her advocacy off it. She passed away at the age of 104, leaving behind an enduring impact on both the film industry and American culture as a whole.
Common Questions
Who was Olivia De Havilland's mother?
Olivia De Havilland's mother was Lilian Fontaine. She grew up alongside her sister Joan, who also became a famous actress.
What were some of Olivia De Havilland's major films?
Some of Olivia De Havilland's notable films include The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938), Gone with the Wind (1939), and To Each His Own (1946) where she won her first Oscar for Best Actress.
What did Olivia De Havilland achieve beyond acting?
Beyond her acting career, Olivia De Havilland was known for challenging studio contracts in a landmark case that improved actors' rights. This victory led to greater artistic freedom and control over their careers for future generations of performers.
How many children did Olivia De Havilland have?
Olivia De Havilland had one child, Gisèle Galante, with her second husband Pierre Galante.
What was Olivia De Havilland's political affiliation?
Olivia De Havilland was a member of the Democratic Party and used her platform to advocate for social causes.
