Celeste Holm (who is Celeste Holm?)
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Celeste Holm was an American stage, film, and television actress. She was born on April 29, 1917, in New York City and passed away on July 15, 2012. Holm had a career that spanned over 70 years and was particularly noted for her performance in Broadway musicals.
Early Life
Celeste Holm was the daughter of Theodor Holm, a Norwegian businessman, and Jean Parke, an American portrait artist and author. She attended various schools including the University of Chicago, where she first became interested in acting.
Career
Holm began her acting career on the stage in the late 1930s and landed her first on-Broadway role in a production of "Hamlet." Her early stage work led to her signing with the 20th Century Fox film studio in 1946. Holm's breakthrough came with her performance in the film "Gentleman's Agreement" (1947), for which she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Notable Work
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Oscar Win: She received an Oscar for her role as Anne Dettrey in "Gentleman's Agreement," playing a fashion editor involved in a story about anti-Semitism.
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Further Oscar Nominations: Holm was nominated for Best Supporting Actress twice more, for "Come to the Stable" (1949) and "All About Eve" (1950).
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Broadway: On stage, Holm was known for her work in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s "Oklahoma!" (1943) wherein she originated the role of Ado Annie. That production solidified her as a musical comedy star.
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Television: Holm had a number of roles on television over various decades, including her own show in the 1950s, "Honestly, Celeste!" and roles on series such as "Fantasy Island" and "Columbo."
Personal Life and Legacy
Celeste Holm was married five times and had two children. Her personal life sometimes attracted publicity, including significant legal disputes with her family over her estate in her later years.
Holm's contributions to the arts were recognized with numerous accolades including a National Medal of Arts in 1992. She was also involved in charity work; she served on boards and committees for organizations like the National Mental Health Association and the Creative Arts Rehabilitation Center.
Her legacy includes her impact on the world of theater and film, as well as her work as an artist who broke ground for future generations of actors. Holm has often been remembered for her grace, charm, and versatility as a performer, being able to make a mark in both comedic and dramatic roles.
For those looking to explore more about her life and career, her performances in "Gentleman's Agreement," "All About Eve," and the musical "Oklahoma!" remain key works that encapsulate her talent.
Additional information about Celeste Holm's life and work can be found through resources like biographies, film historical sites, and by viewing her films and recorded stage performances where available.
These links provide a comprehensive view of her filmography and stage performances, providing a glimpse into her long-standing impact in the world of performing arts.