The American Film Institute ranked her the top American screen legend of all time. With twelve nominations and four Oscars to her credit, who can blame them?
Katharine Hepburn was a wild rose – beautiful, unconventional and yet forever in bloom. As an actress she commanded attention, but in her private life she shunned it. Known for living life on her own terms, she’ll forever be remembered by her famous quote: If you obey all the rules, you’ll miss all the fun.
Born in Hartford in 1907, Katharine’s views were very much shaped by her liberal upbringing. Her mother was a suffrage activist and her father, a urologist, worked to educate the public on the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. Katharine was raised to explore differing viewpoints and to boldly speak her mind, and that she did throughout her career.
Despite her box office success, many in Hollywood questioned her eccentricity. Off screen she wore almost no make-up, gave very few interviews and, in general, tried to avoid the media spotlight. She also wore pants – a lot! Once when a costume designer for the studio stole her pants – because she viewed them as uncouth and boyish – Katharine refused to put on anything else. She walked about in her underwear until her pants were returned.
Katharine was a front runner, setting new standards for women owning their power to choose. She played women of strength on-screen, and lived her life as a strong, courageous, “dare to be me” woman off screen. That’s why we’re proud to include her as a Woman Who Dared.
Does Katharine Hepburn inspire you? Drop us a line and let us know, and be sure to share the inspiration using the hashtag #Dare2BMe.
Hugs and Blessings ❤
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