Lauren Bacall (who is Lauren Bacall?)
Lauren Bacall, born Betty Joan Perske on September 16, 1924, was an iconic American actress known for her distinctive voice and sultry looks. She began her career as a model before making her film debut in "To Have and Have Not" (1944) at the age of 19. It was during this film's production that she met her future husband, Humphrey Bogart.
Bacall's notable films include a series that paired her with Bogart, including "The Big Sleep" (1946), "Dark Passage" (1947), and "Key Largo" (1948). Her on-screen chemistry with Bogart was undeniable, and the couple became one of Hollywood's legendary partnerships both on and off the screen.
Aside from her work with Bogart, Bacall continued to have a successful film career throughout the 1950s and 60s, featuring in movies such as "How to Marry a Millionaire" (1953) alongside Marilyn Monroe and Betty Grable, and "Designing Woman" (1957) with Gregory Peck. She also ventured into stage acting, achieving success on Broadway in shows like "Applause" (1970), which won her a Tony Award, and "Woman of the Year" (1981).
Lauren Bacall's style and elegance was emblematic of the Golden Age of Hollywood, and her voice and mannerisms became widely imitated and iconic. She was known for "The Look," a way of positioning her chin down and looking up to minimize her height when acting opposite shorter male leads.
Over her career, Bacall received various accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "The Mirror Has Two Faces" (1996). Later, she was awarded an Honorary Oscar in 2009, in recognition of her central place in the Golden Age of motion pictures.
Apart from her acting career, Bacall was also recognized for her strong personality and outspoken views. She was an ardent liberal, supporting many Democratic politicians and known for her sharp opinions and witticisms.
Her memoirs, "By Myself" (1978) and its update, "Now" (1994), allowed her to tell her life story in her own words, providing insight into her personal life, career, and the many famous personalities she encountered.
Lauren Bacall passed away on August 12, 2014, at the age of 89. She left behind a legacy that encompassed not only her film and stage work but also her status as a fashion icon and one of the last stars from the classic era of Hollywood cinema.
For more extensive information on Lauren Bacall, you might find these resources helpful:
- The Lauren Bacall entry on IMDb
- Her obituary in The New York Times