Retro Blast: Katharine Hepburn's Cause Of Death

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Katharine Hepburn

Hepburn's career spanned over six decades, during which she was awarded four Oscars and received 12 nominations, a record at the time. Her roles in films like 'A Lion in Winter' (1968) and 'On Golden Pond' (1981) showcased her versatility and depth as an actress.

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Katharine Hepburn

Katharine Hepburn, the indomitable force of Hollywood's golden era, known for her unparalleled talent, distinctive beauty, and fierce independence, passed away on June 29, 2003 of natural causes.

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Katharine Hepburn

Her journey from a well-to-do New England family to becoming the greatest female actress in American cinema history, as named by the American Film Institute in 1999, is a testament to her enduring legacy. This delves into the life of Katharine Hepburn, exploring her career highs, personal battles, and the unwavering spirit that made her a legend

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Katharine Hepburn

Born into a family where intellect and rebellion were nurtured, Katharine Hepburn (96) was destined for greatness. With her roots deeply embedded in a New England family that valued education and advocacy, Hepburn's journey from Bryn Mawr College to the glitzy lanes of Hollywood reads like a script of a blockbuster film.

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Katharine Hepburn

Her debut in 'A Bill of Divorcement' (1932) opposite John Barrymore set the stage for a career that would see her clinching four Academy Awards for Best Actress, a record that remained unchallenged until 2003.

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Katharine Hepburn

Hepburn was not one to conform. In an era when Hollywood starlets were expected to epitomize glamour, Hepburn's penchant for pantsuits and her disdain for makeup and autographs set her apart.

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Katharine Hepburn

Her refusal to bow down to Hollywood's unwritten rules earned her a reputation for being arrogant, yet it was this very independence and preparation for her roles that paved the way for her success. Hepburn's decision to buy out her contract with RKO was a bold move that gave her unprecedented control over her career, a rarity for actresses at the time.

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Katharine Hepburn

The partnership between Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy is one of Hollywood's most celebrated romances. Despite Tracy's marriage and the couple's decision to keep their relationship away from the public eye, their chemistry on and off the screen was undeniable.

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Katharine Hepburn

Together, they delivered unforgettable performances in films like 'Woman of the Year' (1942) and 'Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner' (1967), the latter earning Hepburn her second Best Actress Oscar.

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Katharine Hepburn

Even in her final screen appearance in 'Love Affair' (1994), Hepburn's grace and composure were evident. Her passing on June 29, 2003, marked the end of an era, but her legacy as a trailblazer and an icon of resilience and independence continues to inspire.

Katharine Houghton Hepburn was born on in Hartford, Connecticut to a suffragist, Katharine Martha (Houghton), and a doctor, Thomas Norval Hepburn, who both always encouraged her to speak her mind, develop it fully, and exercise her body to its full potential.

Retro Blast: Katharine Hepburn's Cause Of Death

An athletic tomboy as a child, she was very close to her brother Tom; at 14 she was devastated to find him dead, the apparent result of accidentally hanging himself while practicing a hanging trick their father had taught them. Little did she know what her future would hold...