Profile of the Day: Audrey Hepburn

Do you have a favorite Audrey Hepburn movie? On this day in 1929, the iconic actress was born in Brussels, Belgium.

Image: Audrey Hepburn / Wikimedia Commons

She was born Audrey Kathleen Ruston to Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston and Baroness Ella van Heemstra, a Dutch aristocrat and the daughter of Baron Aarnoud van Heemstra. Hepburn took up ballet at a young age, and by 1944 was a very proficient dancer. During World War II, she would secretly dance for groups of people to collect money for the Dutch resistance. She even reportedly helped deliver messages to the resistance movement.

By 1953, a starring role in Roman Holiday had catapulted her to instant stardom and critical praise. She would win her first Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance. She went on to star in many more successful films, including Sabrina, My Fair Lady, and Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

Later in life, Hepburn devoted much of her time to working with UNICF as a Goodwill Ambassador. In 1992, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in recognition of her humanitarian work.

Explore Audrey Hepburn’s family tree and discover how you’re related to the legendary actress!

View Audrey Hepburn’s Geni Profile