50 Facts About Mia Farrow

Early Life and Family

Mia Farrow's life began in a household steeped in Hollywood history. Her early years were marked by both privilege and hardship, shaping her into the resilient figure she is today.

1. 01Mia Farrow was born Maria de Lourdes Villiers Farrow on February 9, 1945, in Los Angeles, California.
2. 02Her parents were Australian film director John Farrow and actress Maureen O’Sullivan.
3. 03She was the first of seven children, including her younger sister Prudence Farrow.
4. 04Her godfather was film director George Cukor, and her godmother was film columnist Louella Parsons.
5. 05Mia began performing at a young age, appearing in her first acting role in a short documentary at just two years old.
6. 06At age 13, she appeared in her father’s film John Paul Jones.
7. 07At nine years old, Mia contracted polio during a Los Angeles County outbreak, leading to a three-week quarantine.
8. 08Four years after her polio diagnosis, her 19-year-old brother died in a plane crash.

Rise to Fame

Mia Farrow's career took off in the 1960s, with roles that would cement her status as a Hollywood icon. Her talent and unique presence quickly garnered attention.

9. 09Mia’s first credited film appearance was in Guns at Batasi (1964), a British film where she played a supporting role.
10. 10Her breakthrough role came in 1964 when she starred as Allison MacKenzie in the primetime soap opera Peyton Place.
11. 11At 21, Mia married Frank Sinatra, who was 50 years old at the time.
12. 12Mia’s breakout film role was in Roman Polanski’s Rosemary’s Baby (1968), earning her a BAFTA Award and a Golden Globe nomination.
13. 13After leaving Sinatra, Mia returned to acting with her role in A Dandy in Aspic (1968).
14. 14In 1971, Mia made history by becoming the first American actress to join the Royal Shakespeare Company.
15. 15Mia also appeared in the British horror film See No Evil (1971), playing a blind woman whose family is stalked by a killer.
16. 16In 1972, Mia starred in the French black comedy film Dr. Popaul, opposite Jean-Paul Belmondo.

Iconic Roles and Collaborations

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Mia Farrow continued to take on diverse and challenging roles, often collaborating with renowned directors.

17. 17Onstage, Mia starred as the lead in a 1972 stage production of Mary Rose.
18. 18She played Irina in The Three Sisters, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
19. 19Mia began dating director Woody Allen in 1980, appearing in 13 of his films.
20. 20Her role in Broadway Danny Rose (1984) earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
21. 21In 1974, Mia starred as Daisy Buchanan opposite Robert Redford in The Great Gatsby.
22. 22Mia also appeared in Robert Altman’s A Wedding (1978).
23. 23In the 1994 Irish film Widows’ Peak, Mia played the mysterious victim of a vengeful, matriarchal figure.
24. 24Mia appeared in the comedy Miami Rhapsody (1995), playing the mother of a single woman in her thirties.

Humanitarian Efforts

Beyond her acting career, Mia Farrow has dedicated much of her life to humanitarian causes, particularly advocating for the rights and health of children.

25. 25Mia has been a dedicated humanitarian, advocating for the rights and health of African children.
26. 26She is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has traveled extensively to Darfur and Chad to advocate for refugees.
27. 27Mia has adopted ten children, in addition to her four biological children.
28. 28In 1997, Mia published her memoir What Falls Away, providing insight into her personal life and career.
29. 29Mia’s son Ronan Farrow is an accomplished journalist.
30. 30Mia’s daughter Dylan Farrow has spoken publicly about her experiences with Woody Allen.
31. 31Mia has traveled extensively on humanitarian missions, often with her son Ronan.
32. 32In 2000, Mia was named a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.

Personal Challenges and Resilience

Mia Farrow's life has been marked by both triumphs and tragedies. Her personal experiences have shaped her into a figure of resilience and strength.

33. 33Mia’s family life has been complex, with her relationships with her children often making headlines.
34. 34Mia was devastated by the murder of her friend Sharon Tate by members of the Manson Family cult.
35. 35Frank Sinatra’s controlling behavior during their marriage had a lasting impact on Mia.
36. 36Mia’s relationship with Woody Allen has been marred by controversy, particularly regarding allegations of sexual abuse against him.
37. 37Mia’s adopted son Thaddeus contracted polio and was paralyzed from the waist down.
38. 38Mia has appeared in over 40 films throughout her career.
39. 39In addition to her film work, Mia has had a successful stage career.
40. 40Mia’s memoir What Falls Away provides a candid look into her personal life and career.

Legacy and Impact

Mia Farrow's legacy extends beyond her acting career. She is remembered for her humanitarian work, her advocacy for children’s rights, and her unwavering dedication to her craft.

41. 41Mia’s son Ronan Farrow has been involved in exposing high-profile scandals, including allegations against Woody Allen.
42. 42Mia’s daughter Dylan Farrow has spoken publicly about her experiences with Woody Allen.
43. 43Mia’s humanitarian work has had a significant impact on global issues.
44. 44As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Mia has traveled extensively on humanitarian missions.
45. 45Mia has faced various public perceptions throughout her career.
46. 46Mia Farrow’s legacy extends beyond her acting career.
47. 47Although Mia acts infrequently now, she continues to be involved in various projects.
48. 48Mia’s family has been a significant part of her life.
49. 49Mia’s life has been marked by both personal and professional challenges.
50. 50Mia Farrow’s impact on Hollywood and the world extends far beyond her acting career.

Mia Farrow: A Life of Resilience and Compassion

Mia Farrow's life is a blend of Hollywood glamour and heartfelt humanitarian work. From her early days in a star-studded family to her iconic role in Rosemary's Baby, she's shown remarkable talent and resilience. Her relationships with Frank Sinatra and Woody Allen brought both fame and controversy, yet she remained steadfast in her career and personal convictions. Beyond the screen, Mia's dedication to humanitarian causes, especially her work with UNICEF, highlights her compassion and commitment to making a difference. Adopting ten children and advocating for global issues, she’s proven that her impact extends far beyond acting. Mia Farrow's story is one of strength, determination, and an unwavering desire to help others. Her legacy will continue to inspire both in Hollywood and around the world.