Vivien Leigh, the legendary British actress, continues to reign as an icon of Hollywood even after her death. She was known for her remarkable performances in classic movies like "Gone with The Wind" and "A Streetcar Named Desire". Her stunning beauty, undeniable talent, and unique charm have earned her a special place in the hearts of cinema lovers worldwide.
Vivien Leigh was born in India in 1913 and raised in England. She began her acting career in British theater before making her way to Hollywood, where she captured the hearts of millions with her exceptional acting skills and magnetic screen presence. Despite facing personal challenges and health issues, Vivien Leigh never failed to amaze her audience with her performances.
Aside from her acting career, Vivien Leigh was also known for her distinctive figure and style. Her striking beauty and delicate features made her an icon of fashion in the 1940s and 1950s. Her sense of style remains an inspiration to many fashion enthusiasts even to this day.
Vivien Leigh's net worth was estimated to be around $10 million during her lifetime. However, her legacy goes beyond the numbers. Her memorable performances, timeless beauty, and unique talent continue to inspire the generations to come.
Vivien Leigh: Biography and Early Life
Vivien Leigh was a renowned British actress, born on November 5th, 1913 in Darjeeling, India. She was born to an English father, Ernest Hartley, and a mother of Irish ancestry, Gertrude Yackjee. Her birth name was Vivian Mary Hartley, but she later changed her name to Vivien Leigh following her acting career.
Although Leigh was born in India, she spent most of her childhood in England. She attended the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and soon established herself as a talented actress. Her first major role was in the play "The Mask of Virtue" in 1935, in which she received critical acclaim for her performance.
Leigh's breakthrough role came in 1939, when she was cast as Scarlett O'Hara in the film "Gone with the Wind." Her performance in the film earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress and catapulted her to international fame. She went on to star in many other successful films, including "A Streetcar Named Desire" in 1951, for which she won another Academy Award for Best Actress.
Leigh's personal life was also marked by turmoil, including her struggle with bipolar disorder and her tumultuous marriage to actor Laurence Olivier. However, her legacy as one of the greatest actresses of all time remains undimmed, and she continues to be an inspiration to actors and film lovers all over the world.
Early Years and Childhood
Vivien Leigh was born on November 5, 1913, in Darjeeling, India. Her birth name was Vivian Mary Hartley, and she was the only child of Ernest Hartley, a British officer in the Indian Army, and Gertrude Robinson Yackje, a textile merchant of French-Indian descent.
Leigh spent her early childhood in Darjeeling, where she was educated at home by a governess. She was an avid reader and developed a love for literature and the performing arts at an early age. Her parents' marriage was troubled, and they often quarreled, which affected Leigh's upbringing.
In 1924, Leigh's mother took her to London, where she enrolled her in several private schools. However, Leigh was not an academic child and was expelled from some of these schools. She spent some time at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London but left after a year due to financial difficulties.
Despite her unstable upbringing, Leigh showed a natural talent for acting. She made her stage debut in 1935 in the play "The Green Sash" and received critical acclaim for her performance. This success led to her being cast in several film roles, including her breakthrough role as Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone with the Wind."
Rise to Success: Acting Career
Vivien Leigh first took the stage in her teens, quickly making a name for herself with her stunning beauty and acting talent. Her first starring role was in the play "Taurat Zipporah" in 1935, which led to a contract with movie studio Alexander Korda. In 1937, Leigh starred in her breakout role as Scarlett O'Hara in the classic film "Gone with the Wind," which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
Leigh continued to have a successful career in both film and theater. In 1940, she starred in the film "Waterloo Bridge," for which she received another Academy Award nomination. She also starred in the stage production of "A Streetcar Named Desire" in London and New York, winning a Tony Award for her performance as Blanche Dubois.
Despite facing personal and health struggles, Leigh remained committed to her acting career and continued to receive critical acclaim for her performances. She starred in numerous productions, including the films "Caesar and Cleopatra" and "The Roman Spring of Mrs. Stone," and the stage productions of "The Sleeping Prince" and "The Importance of Being Earnest."
Leigh's talent and success in the entertainment industry allowed her to accumulate a substantial net worth throughout her career. However, her true legacy continues to be her incredible performances that have cemented her as one of the greatest actresses of all time.
Vivien Leigh: Age, Height, and Figure
Age
Vivien Leigh was born on November 5, 1913, and died on July 7, 1967. She lived for 53 years and made a significant impact on the film industry through her career as an actress. Despite her short life, she remains an icon and an inspiration to many in the industry.
Height
Vivien Leigh was known for her striking beauty and graceful physique. She stood at a height of 5 feet 3 inches, which is considered to be average height for women. Her elegant appearance and charisma helped make her a standout in her performances, capturing the hearts of many audiences.
Figure
Vivien Leigh was renowned for her slender and svelte figure. She possessed a slim waist, long limbs, and delicate features that added to her overall beauty. Her figure was often accentuated by the gorgeous gowns and dresses she wore in films, making her an icon in the fashion world as well.
Despite comments from some that her figure was too thin, Vivien Leigh remained unapologetic about her body and served as a role model for women who valued their independence and sense of self. She embraced her unique qualities and used them to her advantage in her career as an actress, blazing a trail that continues to inspire many today.
Vivien Leigh: Age and Birthdate
Vivien Leigh was born on November 5, 1913. This means that she was born over a century ago and would have been 107 years old if she were still alive today. Despite being born in a different era, Vivien Leigh remains an icon and a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, thanks to her remarkable talent and timeless beauty.
Leigh's birthdate is significant not only because of her impressive longevity, but also because it marked the beginning of an illustrious career that would make her one of the most celebrated actresses of her time. Her performances in classic films such as "Gone with the Wind" and "A Streetcar Named Desire" have left an indelible mark on cinema history and earned her countless accolades.
While her life was not without its challenges and struggles, Vivien Leigh's legacy endures and continues to inspire generations of fans and artists alike. Her birthday serves as a reminder of her immense talent, as well as her enduring influence and impact on popular culture.
Height and Weight
Vivien Leigh had a slender and delicate figure with a height of 5 feet 3 inches. Her weight fluctuated throughout her life due to her struggles with tuberculosis and manic depression. As an actress, she was expected to maintain a certain level of physical appearance, which put pressure on her to maintain a slim figure. However, her illnesses and the medications she took for them had an adverse effect on her weight.
During the filming of Gone with the Wind, Leigh had to wear a tight corset to give her a small waistline, which resulted in her fainting several times on set. She also had to undergo intense dieting to maintain her appearance, leading to a decrease in her overall weight. Despite the pressures to conform to Hollywood's beauty standards, Leigh's talent as an actress shone through regardless of her weight.
Leigh's weight issues continued throughout her life, causing concern amongst her friends and family. However, her talent and beauty continued to be admired by fans and critics alike, proving that true talent transcends physical appearance.
Figure and Body Measurements
Vivien Leigh was known for her striking beauty and slender figure. Her measurements were not widely publicized during her lifetime, but she was reported to have a petite frame with a tiny waist and slender hips.
Despite her delicate appearance, Leigh was physically active and enjoyed swimming, horseback riding, and other forms of exercise. Her dedication to fitness likely contributed to her slim figure and overall health.
As a Hollywood actress, Leigh was expected to maintain a certain standard of beauty, which at the time emphasized a curvy yet slender silhouette. Although her exact measurements remain a mystery, she was widely regarded as one of the most beautiful and fashionable women of her time.
Today, Leigh's legacy lives on not only in her cinematic performances but also in her contribution to the world of fashion and style. Her timeless elegance and graceful demeanor continue to inspire generations of women around the world.
Vivien Leigh: Personal Life and Relationships
Vivien Leigh had a tumultuous personal life, marked by several relationships and marriages. She first married barrister Leigh Holman in 1932, after a brief courtship. However, the marriage ended in 1940, due to her affair with actor Laurence Olivier. Leigh and Olivier fell in love while working together on the film "Fire Over England," and their relationship caused a scandal in London society. They divorced their respective spouses and married each other in 1940.
The marriage between Leigh and Olivier was passionate but also troubled. They both had extramarital affairs and struggled with mental health issues. Leigh was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, which led to erratic behavior and hospitalizations. Despite these challenges, they remained married until 1960, when they filed for divorce due to irreconcilable differences.
After her divorce from Olivier, Leigh had a brief relationship with actor Jack Merivale, who supported her through her mental health struggles. They remained together until Leigh's death in 1967, at the age of 53.
Marriages and Divorce of Vivien Leigh
The First Marriage
Vivien Leigh got married for the first time in December 1932 to Herbert Leigh Holman, who was a barrister, also known by the nickname “Hollywood” because of his connection with film stars.
The marriage faced various struggles and complications. Herbert was a homosexual, and Vivien struggled with infertility, which put a strain on their relationship. Eventually, the couple separated in 1936 and got divorced.
The Second Marriage
After her first marriage ended, Vivien Leigh got involved with Laurence Olivier, who became her partner for life. The couple joined hands in marriage in August 1940. Laurence was a renowned actor and director of that era.
The marriage life of Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier was also not easy, as there were various extramarital affairs and different issues. The couple separated in 1957 and got divorced a year later in 1960.
Impact of Divorce on Vivien Leigh
Vivien’s high profile divorces were hard to deal with in the spotlight. Her second separation from Laurence Olivier was particularly challenging, leading to mental health struggles, including severe mood swings and manic depression. Despite this, Leigh always remained a strong and beautiful actress that left her mark on the world of cinema.
Vivien Leigh died at the young age of 53, in 1967 due to a tuberculosis infection. However, her marriage episodes of love, heartbreak, and hard work still inspire people and her fans around the globe.
Children and Family Life
Aside from her successful acting career, Vivien Leigh was also a devoted mother. She had one daughter with her first husband, Herbert Leigh Holman, whom she divorced after nine years of marriage. Their daughter, Suzanne, was born in 1933.
In 1940, Vivien married Laurence Olivier, another prominent actor at the time. They also had one child together, a son named Tarquin, who was born in 1945. Despite their successful careers, their marriage faced many challenges and they eventually divorced in 1960.
Vivien's family life was not without its hardships. She suffered from bipolar disorder and bouts of depression throughout her life, which often affected those closest to her. Despite these struggles, she remained close to her children and found comfort in being a mother.
Overall, Vivien Leigh's family life was a complex and emotional journey. Despite the challenges, she remained a devoted mother to her children and found joy in the moments spent with her family.
Vivien Leigh: Net Worth and Legacy
Vivien Leigh's net worth was estimated to be around $20 million at the time of her death. Her iconic roles in movies like "Gone with the Wind" and "A Streetcar Named Desire" have cemented her place as one of the greatest actresses of all time.
In addition to her film career, Vivien Leigh was also a successful stage actress, with her performance in "Tovarich" earning her a Tony Award in 1963.
But Vivien Leigh's legacy goes beyond just her acting career. She was also a champion of mental health awareness, speaking openly about her struggles with bipolar disorder at a time when mental illness was stigmatized.
Her contributions to the world of film and her advocacy for mental health continue to inspire and influence both fans and fellow artists today. Vivien Leigh will always be remembered as a true Hollywood icon and a trailblazer in the fight for mental health awareness.
Net Worth and Financial Success
Vivien Leigh's net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. Her financial success can be attributed to her successful career in acting, particularly her iconic role as Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone with the Wind." Leigh also had a successful stage career, including playing the lead role in "A Streetcar Named Desire" on both the West End and Broadway.
In addition to her acting career, Leigh was also a shrewd businesswoman. She owned several properties, including a home in London's fashionable Eaton Square, which is said to have been worth £50,000 at the time.
Despite her financial success, Leigh was known for her generous nature and philanthropy. She was a supporter of various charities, including the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children and the St. John Ambulance Brigade.
| Film Title | Year |
|---|---|
| Gone with the Wind | 1939 |
| A Streetcar Named Desire | 1951 |
| Waterloo Bridge | 1940 |
| Anna Karenina | 1948 |
Legacy and Contributions to Film Industry
Vivien Leigh left a lasting legacy in the film industry, particularly for her performances in two iconic roles: Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone with the Wind" and Blanche DuBois in "A Streetcar Named Desire."
Leigh's portrayal of Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone with the Wind" earned her critical acclaim and two Academy Awards for Best Actress. She brought depth and complexity to the character and helped to elevate the film to a classic of Hollywood cinema.
Similarly, Leigh's performance as Blanche DuBois in "A Streetcar Named Desire" is regarded as one of the greatest performances in film history. She captured the character's tragic descent into madness with nuance and emotional depth.
Aside from her notable performances, Leigh was also a trailblazer in terms of her advocacy for mental health awareness. She was open and honest about her struggles with bipolar disorder and helped to destigmatize the condition in Hollywood.
Overall, Vivien Leigh's contributions to the film industry have had a lasting impact on cinema and paved the way for future generations of actresses. Her performances continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
Vivien Leigh: Final Years and Death
Vivien Leigh continued to act in films and on stage throughout the 1950s and 1960s, but her health began to decline. She suffered from tuberculosis and bipolar disorder and was frequently hospitalized throughout her career. Her final film role was in the 1965 movie "Ship of Fools."
In 1967, Vivien Leigh passed away at the age of 53 due to complications from tuberculosis. Her death was a shock to her family and fans around the world. She was buried in the Kensal Green Cemetery in London, England.
Despite her struggles with mental and physical illness, Vivien Leigh was an incredibly talented actress who left a lasting impact on the world of film and theater. She will always be remembered for her iconic roles as Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone with the Wind" and Blanche DuBois in "A Streetcar Named Desire."
Health Struggles
Vivien Leigh's beauty and talent were undeniable, but she also experienced various health struggles throughout her life, which affected her career and personal life.
At the age of 22, she was diagnosed with tuberculosis, which led to her taking some time off from acting. Although she recovered, the illness left a lasting impact on her health.
In addition to tuberculosis, Leigh also struggled with bipolar disorder, which was not fully understood or treated during her time. Her mood swings and anxiety often affected her relationships and work, but she persevered through it all.
Finally, towards the end of her life, Leigh was diagnosed with chronic tuberculosis, which led to her death at the age of 53. Despite her health struggles, she left a legacy as one of the greatest actresses in history, continuing to inspire generations of artists and audiences alike.
Death and Legacy
Vivien Leigh's death was a shock to the world. She suffered from tuberculosis, which ultimately led to her passing on July 8, 1967. She was only 53 years old at the time of her death. Her passing was a great loss to the entertainment industry, as she had left a lasting impression on film and theater.
Despite her untimely death, Vivien Leigh's legacy lives on. She was a true icon of her time and a pioneer of women's roles in film. Her performances in "Gone with the Wind" and "A Streetcar Named Desire" are still revered today and have become classics. She paved the way for future generations of actresses and inspired many women to pursue their dreams in the entertainment industry.
Her legacy is also evident through the numerous awards and recognitions she received throughout her career. She won two Academy Awards for Best Actress, one for "Gone with the Wind" and the other for "A Streetcar Named Desire". She also received a Tony Award for her performance in "Tovarich".
Vivien Leigh's impact on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. She will forever be remembered as one of the greatest actresses of her time and a true pioneer for women in film and theater.
FAQ
Who was Vivien Leigh?
Vivien Leigh was a British actress and film icon, famous for her leading roles in classic Hollywood films such as "Gone with the Wind" and "A Streetcar Named Desire". Born in 1913, she became one of the most acclaimed actresses of her time, winning two Academy Awards for Best Actress in a Leading Role.
What was Vivien Leigh's height and figure?
Vivien Leigh was known for her slim figure and graceful posture, which she maintained throughout her life. She was 5 feet 3 inches tall and had a petite yet curvaceous physique that was often accentuated by her elegant wardrobe and hairstyles.
What was Vivien Leigh's net worth?
Vivien Leigh was one of the biggest stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood, and her net worth was estimated to be millions of dollars at the time of her death in 1967. However, due to various legal and financial issues, her estate was heavily indebted and her net worth was significantly diminished.
What were some of Vivien Leigh's most famous films?
Vivien Leigh starred in many classic films, but her most famous roles were in "Gone with the Wind" (1939) and "A Streetcar Named Desire" (1951). In the former, she played the iconic character of Scarlett O'Hara, while in the latter she portrayed the troubled and passionate Blanche DuBois.
How did Vivien Leigh's personal life affect her career?
Vivien Leigh's personal life was marked by several tumultuous relationships, including her marriage to fellow actor Laurence Olivier. She also suffered from bipolar disorder, which at times affected her ability to work. However, despite these challenges, she continued to be a respected and sought-after actress, and her performances remain revered to this day.
