Profile of the Day: Lauren Bacall

Today we remember screen legend Lauren Bacall on what would have been her 98th birthday.

Image: Lauren Bacall / Wikimedia Commons

Actress Lauren Bacall was born Betty Joan Perske on September 16, 1924 in New York City, New York. She was the only child of William Perske and Natalie Weinstein, who later legally changed her surname to Bacal. After her parents divorced, Bacall was raised by her mother.

Bacall began her career as a model before catching the attention of Hollywood. She made her big screen debut at the age of 19 in the film To Have and Have Not, starring opposite Humphrey Bogart. It was on set that she developed what would become her signature gesture, dubbed “The Look.” The role launched Bacall to instant stardom and she became known for her distinctive voice and sultry looks. Despite their 25-year age difference, Bacall and Bogart married in 1945 and remained married until his death in 1957.

Bacall died on August 12, 2014 at the age of 89.

Explore Lauren Bacall’s family tree on Geni and share your connection to the star.

View Lauren Bacall’s Geni Profile