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. Mia Farrow was born Maria de Lourdes Villiers Farrow on February 9, 1945, in Los Angeles, California.
2. Her parents were Australian film director John Farrow and actress Maureen O’Sullivan.
3. She was the first of seven children, including her younger sister Prudence Farrow.
4. Her godfather was film director George Cukor, and her godmother was film columnist Louella Parsons.
5. Mia began performing at a young age, appearing in her first acting role in a short documentary at just two years old.
6. At age 13, she appeared in her father’s film John Paul Jones.
7. At nine years old, Mia contracted polio during a Los Angeles County outbreak, leading to a three-week quarantine.
8. Four 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. Mia’s first credited film appearance was in Guns at Batasi (1964), a British film where she played a supporting role.
10. Her breakthrough role came in 1964 when she starred as Allison MacKenzie in the primetime soap opera Peyton Place.
11. At 21, Mia married Frank Sinatra, who was 50 years old at the time.
12. Mia’s breakout film role was in Roman Polanski’s Rosemary’s Baby (1968), earning her a BAFTA Award and a Golden Globe nomination.
13. After leaving Sinatra, Mia returned to acting with her role in A Dandy in Aspic (1968).
14. In 1971, Mia made history by becoming the first American actress to join the Royal Shakespeare Company.
15. Mia also appeared in the British horror film See No Evil (1971), playing a blind woman whose family is stalked by a killer.
16. In 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. Onstage, Mia starred as the lead in a 1972 stage production of Mary Rose.
18. She played Irina in The Three Sisters, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
19. Mia began dating director Woody Allen in 1980, appearing in 13 of his films.
20. Her role in Broadway Danny Rose (1984) earned her a Golden Globe nomination.
21. In 1974, Mia starred as Daisy Buchanan opposite Robert Redford in The Great Gatsby.
22. Mia also appeared in Robert Altman’s A Wedding (1978).
23. In the 1994 Irish film Widows’ Peak, Mia played the mysterious victim of a vengeful, matriarchal figure.
24. Mia 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. Mia has been a dedicated humanitarian, advocating for the rights and health of African children.
26. She is a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador and has traveled extensively to Darfur and Chad to advocate for refugees.
27. Mia has adopted ten children, in addition to her four biological children.
28. In 1997, Mia published her memoir What Falls Away, providing insight into her personal life and career.
29. Mia’s son Ronan Farrow is an accomplished journalist.
30. Mia’s daughter Dylan Farrow has spoken publicly about her experiences with Woody Allen.
31. Mia has traveled extensively on humanitarian missions, often with her son Ronan.
32. In 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. Mia’s family life has been complex, with her relationships with her children often making headlines.
34. Mia was devastated by the murder of her friend Sharon Tate by members of the Manson Family cult.
35. Frank Sinatra’s controlling behavior during their marriage had a lasting impact on Mia.
36. Mia’s relationship with Woody Allen has been marred by controversy, particularly regarding allegations of sexual abuse against him.
37. Mia’s adopted son Thaddeus contracted polio and was paralyzed from the waist down.
38. Mia has appeared in over 40 films throughout her career.
39. In addition to her film work, Mia has had a successful stage career.
40. Mia’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. Mia’s son Ronan Farrow has been involved in exposing high-profile scandals, including allegations against Woody Allen.
42. Mia’s daughter Dylan Farrow has spoken publicly about her experiences with Woody Allen.
43. Mia’s humanitarian work has had a significant impact on global issues.
44. As a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Mia has traveled extensively on humanitarian missions.
45. Mia has faced various public perceptions throughout her career.
46. Mia Farrow’s legacy extends beyond her acting career.
47. Although Mia acts infrequently now, she continues to be involved in various projects.
48. Mia’s family has been a significant part of her life.
49. Mia’s life has been marked by both personal and professional challenges.
50. Mia 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.