Bette Davis was one of the greatest actresses of the golden era of Hollywood, with a career that spanned more than six decades and included more than 100 films. She was famous for her complex and intense performances, her distinctive voice, and her larger-than-life personality on and off the screen. Davis was a true icon, a trailblazer who paved the way for generations of actresses to come.
This comprehensive biography of Bette Davis delves into her life story, from her humble beginnings in Massachusetts to her rise to stardom in Hollywood. It covers her personal relationships, her struggles with the film industry, her health battles, and her legacy as a performer.
Read on to discover Bette Davis' age, height, figure, and net worth, as well as the fascinating details of her life that made her one of the most formidable and captivating actresses of all time.
Bette Davis: A Comprehensive Biography
Bette Davis was an American actress born on April 5, 1908 in Massachusetts. She was known for her strong and versatile performances in films and on stage, and is considered one of the greatest actresses in Hollywood history.
During her career, Davis won two Academy Awards and was nominated for ten. She starred in over 100 films and was known for her portrayals of powerful and complex women. She was a trailblazer for women in the film industry, fighting against the stereotypical roles offered to female actresses and pushing for better opportunities and recognition.
Davis was known for her distinctive voice and intense gaze, which added to her persona as a strong and commanding figure on screen. She was often described as difficult to work with, but her dedication to her craft and pursuit of excellence made her a respected figure in the industry.
Aside from her acting career, Davis also had a tumultuous personal life, including four marriages and a strained relationship with her daughter. She died on October 6, 1989 at the age of 81.
Bette Davis's legacy lives on through her many films and contributions to the film industry, as well as her impact on the portrayal of women in Hollywood.
Bette Davis: Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
Born as Ruth Elizabeth Davis in Lowell, Massachusetts on April 5, 1908, Bette Davis was the daughter of a lawyer father and an amateur actress mother. As a child, she developed a love for acting after attending a play with her mother. She eventually took drama lessons and participated in school productions. Davis was known for her intelligence and strong-willed personality, distinguishing herself as a straight-A student.First Steps in Hollywood
After graduating from Cushing Academy, Davis attended John Murray Anderson's Dramatic School in New York City. She made her Broadway debut in 1929 in the play "Broken Dishes". Davis was soon discovered by Hollywood producer George Arliss, who cast her in the film "The Man Who Played God" (1932). Though the film was not a box office success, Davis' performance caught the attention of Warner Bros. studio, and she signed a contract with them in 1932.Rise to Fame
Davis' breakout role came in the film "Of Human Bondage" (1934), in which she played a cold-hearted waitress. The role received critical acclaim and earned Davis her first Academy Award nomination. Davis went on to star in a number of successful films, including "Jezebel" (1938), for which she won her first Academy Award. She became known for playing strong-willed, independent women, and was often at odds with studio executives who wanted to cast her in more traditional roles.Legacy
Davis' career spanned six decades and included over 100 film and television credits. She is considered one of the greatest actresses in Hollywood history, and her legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors. Davis passed away in 1989 at the age of 81, but her impact on Hollywood and the world of acting will never be forgotten.Bette Davis: A Comprehensive Biography with Age, Height, Figure and Net Worth
Academy Award Wins and Iconic Roles
Bette Davis was an iconic Hollywood actress who won two Academy Awards for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Her first win was for her role in "Dangerous" in 1936, and her second win was for her role in "Jezebel" in 1938. These wins solidified her place in Hollywood history as one of the greatest actresses of all time.
However, Davis was also known for her iconic roles in other films such as "All About Eve" where she played a cynical and manipulative Broadway star, and "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" where she portrayed a former child star turned deranged and abusive towards her sister. These roles showcased Davis' range as an actress and solidified her place as an icon in the film industry.
Throughout her career, Davis was known for her strong-willed personality and dedication to her craft. She often clashed with studio heads and directors, but her determination to deliver top-notch performances never wavered. Her impact on the film industry can still be felt today, and her legacy as one of the greatest actresses of all time will continue to inspire future generations.
Personal Life and Relationships
Bette Davis had a tumultuous personal life and a string of failed relationships. She was married four times and had numerous affairs. Her first husband was Harmon O. Nelson, whom she divorced after a year of marriage due to his alleged alcoholism and abuse. Davis then married Arthur Farnsworth, a musician, but the marriage was annulled after just a few months.
In 1932, Davis married her co-star in "Hell's House", Harold "Ham" Nelson. They had a daughter, Barbara, but the marriage was unsuccessful and they divorced in 1939. Davis then met and married Arthur P. Hopkins, a businessman, in 1940. The marriage lasted for two years, but ended in divorce.
Davis had a number of affairs throughout her life, including with her co-stars Gary Merrill (whom she later married) and Howard Hughes. She also had a strained relationship with her daughter, Barbara, who wrote a tell-all book about her mother after her death.
Despite the challenges in her personal life, Davis remained dedicated to her career and continued to make films until her death in 1989.
Age, Height, Figure and Net Worth
Age
Bette Davis was born on April 5, 1908, which means she would have turned 114 years old in 2022 if she were still alive.
Height
Bette Davis was known for her tall stature, standing at 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) tall. This height was considered above average for women during her time and may have given her a commanding presence on screen.
Figure
Bette Davis was known for her distinctive figure, with broad shoulders and a small waist. She was proud of her figure, even at times when Hollywood studios pressured her to lose weight. Davis believed that her figure helped her stand out from other actresses of her time and lent her a unique quality on screen.
Net Worth
Bette Davis was a highly successful actress, known for her critically acclaimed performances in films like "All About Eve" and "What Ever Happened to Baby Jane?" Her net worth at the time of her death in 1989 was estimated to be around $7.5 million, which would translate to approximately $16 million in today's dollars. Davis was not only a talented actress but also a shrewd businesswoman, negotiating contracts and demanding high salaries to reflect her worth in the industry.
Legacy and Impact on Hollywood
Bette Davis not only left a lasting impression on the silver screen but also made a significant impact on Hollywood. Her fierce determination and talent paved the way for future female actors. She was a trailblazer, breaking the stereotypes of how women should act and paving the way for strong female characters.
Not only was she an incredible actress, but she was also a feminist icon. She spoke out against the gender pay gap in Hollywood and fought for equal rights for women. She set the standard for women in Hollywood and proved that they could be just as successful as their male counterparts.
Her impact on Hollywood goes beyond just her acting. Davis also founded the Hollywood Canteen during World War II, a place where servicemen could come and enjoy a meal, dancing, and entertainment provided by some of Hollywood's biggest stars. She also was involved in various charities and advocacy groups, using her platform to help those in need.
Bette Davis was a force to be reckoned with, leaving a lasting legacy on Hollywood and beyond. Her impact on women's rights and her dedication to helping others will continue to inspire future generations.
FAQ
What is Bette Davis' height?
Bette Davis was 5 feet 3 inches tall.
What are some of Bette Davis' most famous films?
Bette Davis starred in many classic films, including "All About Eve", "Whatever Happened to Baby Jane?", "Jezebel", "The Little Foxes", and "Now, Voyager".
What was Bette Davis' net worth?
The exact amount of Bette Davis' net worth is unknown, but it is estimated to be around $2.5 million at the time of her death in 1989.
Did Bette Davis have any children?
Yes, Bette Davis had two children, a daughter named Barbara and a son named Michael.
What challenges did Bette Davis face during her career?
Bette Davis faced several challenges during her career, including battles with studio heads over her contracts and roles, struggles with alcoholism, and health issues such as breast cancer and stroke.
