Profile of the Day: Katharine Hepburn

Posted June 29, 2022 by Amanda | No Comment

Today we remember legendary actress Katharine Hepburn, who passed away on this day in 2003. Remembered as one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actresses in film history, Hepburn earned a record 4 Academy Awards for Best Actress, more than any other performer and still holds the record to this day.

Image: Katharine Hepburn / Wikimedia Commons

Hepburn was born on May 12, 1907 to a very progressive family. Her father, Thomas Norval Hepburn, was a urologist who helped establish the New England Social Hygiene Association, which educated the public about venereal diseases. Her mother, Katharine Martha Houghton, was a prominent suffragist and founder of the American Birth Control League, which eventually became Planned Parenthood.

Known for her independent and unconventional attitude, Hepburn came to symbolize the “modern woman” and help change the public’s attitude toward women. Even her fashion choices were pioneering, choosing to wear trousers during a time when it was still unconventional for women to do so.

Over the course of her 60-year career in Hollywood, Hepburn earned a total of 12 Academy Award nominations. She made her last on screen appearance at the age of 87.

Hepburn passed away on June 29, 2003 at the age of 96.

What’s your favorite Katharine Hepburn film?

Explore her family tree on Geni and share your connection to the legendary actress.