Hedda Hopper: A Comprehensive Biography
Hedda Hopper was a well-known American actress, gossip columnist, and political activist. Her career in the entertainment industry spanned over four decades, from the silent film era to the 1960s. She was recognized for her hat collection, which often received more attention than her columns. Hopper was also involved in politics, particularly during the Red Scare, where she played an active role in rooting out suspected communists in Hollywood.
Despite her acting background, Hopper is best known for her work as a gossip columnist. She wrote for various newspapers and magazines, including the Los Angeles Times and the Chicago Tribune. Her column, "Hedda Hopper's Hollywood," was syndicated in over 200 newspapers across the United States and Canada. Her writing focused on the private lives of Hollywood's most famous stars, earning her both loyal supporters and bitter enemies within the industry.
Hopper was a controversial figure, known for her acerbic wit and cutthroat commentary. Her feud with fellow columnist Louella Parsons was legendary, as the two battled for supremacy in Hollywood's gossip scene. Despite her often polarizing opinions, Hopper's influence on the entertainment industry cannot be denied. Her column was read widely, and her power over the careers of Hollywood stars was undeniable. Hedda Hopper remains an icon of Hollywood's golden age and a fascinating figure in American pop culture.
- Full Name: Elda Furry
- Date of Birth: May 2, 1885
- Place of Birth: Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, United States
- Occupation: Actress, Gossip Columnist, Political Activist
- Died: February 1, 1966 (aged 80)
Early Life and Career
Hedda Hopper, born Elda Furry, was a popular American actress and gossip columnist of the mid-20th century. She was born on May 2, 1885, in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, and grew up in various cities due to her father's work as a salesman. Hopper's acting career began in the early 1900s, and she appeared in numerous theatrical productions and silent films.
However, it was her transition from acting to journalism that would ultimately make her a household name. In the 1930s, Hopper began writing a gossip column for the Los Angeles Times, and soon became known for her biting commentary and insider knowledge of Hollywood's elite. Over the course of her career, Hopper was known to have feuds with several Hollywood legends, including Clark Gable, Joan Crawford, and Bette Davis.
Despite her controversial reputation, Hopper's column was widely read and had a significant influence on Hollywood's public relations. She was known for her unique style, often wearing extravagant hats and dresses that became her signature look. Throughout her career, Hopper remained a powerful force in Hollywood, and her legacy as a prolific gossip columnist lives on today.
Rise to Fame in Hollywood
Before becoming a Hollywood gossip columnist, Hedda Hopper was an established stage actress with a career spanning over two decades. However, in the late 1930s, she began to transition into Hollywood films, appearing in supporting roles in movies such as "Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm" and "The Women."
It was during this period that Hopper began to write a gossip column for the Los Angeles Times, which quickly gained popularity and established her as a powerful figure in Hollywood. With her sharp wit and insider knowledge, Hopper soon became a feared critic and a sought-after source of information for the movie studios.
However, it was her move to the rival newspaper, the Hearst-owned Los Angeles Examiner, that truly launched her career as Hollywood's most infamous gossip columnist. Her column, "Hedda Hopper's Hollywood," became a sensation, with readers eagerly devouring her latest scoops and scandals about the stars.
As her fame grew, so did her influence in Hollywood. Hopper's opinion could make or break a career, and she used her power to champion certain actors and actresses while blacklisting others. She also became involved in politics, using her platform to endorse conservative candidates and causes.
The Controversial Columnist
Hedda Hopper was not only a renowned Hollywood gossip columnist, but also a controversial figure due to her unapologetic and often ruthless reporting style. She used her column as a platform to criticize and attack movie stars who didn't meet her moral or political standards, often spreading false rumors and damaging their reputations.
One of Hopper's most infamous feuds was with actress and political activist, Katharine Hepburn, whom she often ridiculed for her unconventional looks and liberal beliefs. Hopper's harsh words towards Hepburn eventually led to a public confrontation between the two at a party, where Hepburn famously slapped Hopper in the face.
Despite her many detractors, Hopper maintained a loyal following of readers who loved her scandalous scoops and strong opinions. She was also a shrewd businesswoman who used her column to promote her own brand and influence Hollywood power players.
- Unapologetic and often ruthless reporting style
- Criticized and attacked stars who didn't meet her moral or political standards
- Spread false rumors and damaged reputations
- Infamous feud with Katharine Hepburn
- Loyal following of readers who loved her scandalous scoops and strong opinions
- Shrewd businesswoman who used her column to promote her own brand and influence Hollywood power players
Age, Height, Figure and Net Worth of Hedda Hopper
Age
Hedda Hopper was born on May 2, 1885, in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania. She passed away on February 1, 1966, at the age of 80.
Height
There is no information available regarding the exact height of Hedda Hopper. However, she was described as a petite woman with a commanding presence.
Figure
Hedda Hopper was known for her impeccable fashion sense and always appeared elegant and stylish. She was a slender woman but maintained her figure well into her later years.
Net Worth
Hedda Hopper's net worth at the time of her passing was estimated to be around $3 million. Her wealth was primarily accumulated through her successful career as a gossip columnist and actress.
Legacy and Impact on Hollywood
Hedda Hopper's impact on Hollywood was significant and far-reaching. As one of the most influential gossip columnists during the Golden Age of Hollywood, Hopper was able to shape public opinion about stars and their work. She also used her platform to push her own political and social agenda, using her columns to promote conservative values and to denounce those she believed were unpatriotic.
Some have criticized Hopper for her tactics, which included spreading rumors and false stories to advance her own interests. However, others recognize her as a trailblazer who used her influence to pave the way for a new generation of celebrity journalists, including Louella Parsons and Walter Winchell.
Despite her controversial methods, Hopper remains a key figure in the history of Hollywood journalism. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the power of media to shape public perception and the importance of responsible reporting, even in the world of entertainment.
FAQ
Who was Hedda Hopper?
Hedda Hopper was a prominent American gossip columnist and actress who wrote for the Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune during the mid-twentieth century. Born in 1885, she became a Hollywood icon, reporting on the latest celebrity news, fashion, and gossip.
What is Hedda Hopper's net worth?
Although Hedda Hopper's net worth is not known exactly, it is believed to be in the millions due to her successful career as an actress, gossip columnist, and radio personality. She owned several properties in California and had valuable connections with Hollywood's elite.
How did Hedda Hopper affect Hollywood culture?
Hedda Hopper was a powerful figure in Hollywood culture, having the ability to make or break the careers of actors, directors, and producers with her column. She influenced public opinion, fashion trends, and even political ideals, often using her platform to promote conservatism and anti-communism during the 1950s Red Scare.
What is known about Hedda Hopper's personal life?
Hedda Hopper was married twice and had two children. She was known to be a difficult and demanding mother, often controlling and critical of her children's choices. Despite her conservative beliefs, she was considered sexually liberated for her time and had multiple affairs throughout her life.
How did Hedda Hopper's career in acting influence her career as a gossip columnist?
Hedda Hopper's career as an actress gave her valuable connections within Hollywood, which she used to her advantage when writing her column. She had a keen insight into the inner workings of the film industry and knew how to use her platform to promote her own interests. Her ability to spin a story and create intrigue was honed through years of acting and performing on stage and screen.
