39 Facts About Olivia De Havilland

Early Life and Family

Olivia de Havilland's early years were filled with fascinating details that shaped her future career. Here are some intriguing facts about her beginnings.

1. Born on July 1, 1916, in Tokyo, Japan, Olivia was the daughter of British parents.
2. Her father, Walter de Havilland, was a patent attorney, while her mother, Lilian Fontaine, was a former stage actress.
3. Olivia had a younger sister, Joan Fontaine, who also became a famous actress.
4. The family moved to California when Olivia was just three years old.
5. Olivia and Joan's parents divorced when they were young, leading to a strained relationship between the sisters.

Rise to Stardom

Olivia's journey to becoming a Hollywood icon is filled with remarkable milestones. Let's explore some key moments in her rise to fame.

6. Olivia made her film debut in 1935 with "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
7. She gained widespread recognition for her role as Melanie Hamilton in "Gone with the Wind" (1939).
8. Olivia was under contract with Warner Bros. for much of her early career.
9. She starred alongside Errol Flynn in eight films, including "Captain Blood" (1935) and "The Adventures of Robin Hood" (1938).
10. Olivia's performances earned her two Academy Awards for Best Actress.

Legal Battle and Independence

Olivia de Havilland's fight for independence from studio contracts changed Hollywood forever. Here are some pivotal facts about her legal battle.

11. In 1943, Olivia sued Warner Bros. over contract disputes.
12. The lawsuit, known as the "de Havilland Decision," resulted in a landmark ruling that limited studio control over actors.
13. This decision allowed actors to have more freedom in choosing their roles.
14. Olivia's victory inspired other actors to challenge unfair contracts.
15. The ruling is still considered a significant moment in Hollywood history.

Personal Life and Relationships

Olivia's personal life was as captivating as her on-screen performances. Discover some interesting facts about her relationships and family.

16. Olivia married novelist Marcus Goodrich in 1946, but they divorced in 1953.
17. She had one son, Benjamin, with Goodrich.
18. Olivia married French journalist Pierre Galante in 1955.
19. The couple had a daughter, Gisèle, before divorcing in 1979.
20. Despite their divorce, Olivia and Pierre remained close friends.

Later Career and Achievements

Even in her later years, Olivia continued to make significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Here are some highlights from her later career.

21. Olivia moved to Paris in the 1950s and continued acting in both American and European films.
22. She received a Golden Globe for her role in "Anastasia: The Mystery of Anna" (1986).
23. Olivia was honored with the National Medal of Arts in 2008.
24. She published her memoir, "Every Frenchman Has One," in 1962.
25. Olivia received the Légion d'Honneur, France's highest civilian honor, in 2010.

Legacy and Impact

Olivia de Havilland's legacy extends beyond her film career. Her impact on the industry and her contributions to the arts are truly remarkable.

26. Olivia lived to be 104 years old, passing away on July 26, 2020.
27. She was one of the last surviving stars from Hollywood's Golden Age.
28. Olivia's legal battle paved the way for modern labor rights in the entertainment industry.
29. She was a trailblazer for women in Hollywood, advocating for better roles and opportunities.
30. Olivia's performances continue to inspire actors and filmmakers today.

Fun and Lesser-Known Facts

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about Olivia de Havilland that showcase her unique personality and interests.

31. Olivia was an avid gardener and loved spending time in her Parisian garden.
32. She was fluent in French and often conducted interviews in the language.
33. Olivia was a talented writer and enjoyed penning essays and articles.
34. She had a great sense of humor and was known for her witty remarks.
35. Olivia was a fan of classical music and often attended concerts.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her illustrious career, Olivia de Havilland received numerous awards and honors. Let's take a look at some of her most notable accolades.

36. Olivia won her first Academy Award for Best Actress for "To Each His Own" (1946).
37. She received her second Academy Award for "The Heiress" (1949).
38. Olivia was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.
39. She was honored with the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 1999.

Olivia de Havilland's Legacy

Olivia de Havilland's life was nothing short of remarkable. From her iconic roles in classic films like "Gone with the Wind" to her courageous fight against Hollywood's studio system, she left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Her two Academy Awards and numerous other accolades underscore her immense talent and dedication. Beyond her professional achievements, Olivia's personal strength and resilience were equally inspiring. She lived to be 104, witnessing and contributing to nearly a century of cinematic history. Her legacy continues to influence actors and filmmakers today. Olivia de Havilland wasn't just a star; she was a trailblazer whose impact will be felt for generations. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to her work, her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and passion.