Patricia Neal was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “Hud,” “The Day the Earth Stood Still,” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” She received numerous accolades, including an Academy Award and a Tony Award for her performances.
Personal and Family Life
Born Patsy Louise Neal on January 20, 1926, in Packard, Kentucky, Patricia grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee. Her father worked in a coal mine, and her mother was the doctor’s daughter. Patricia was inspired to act at a young age, and she pursued drama after being introduced to it through a church event. She married renowned author Roald Dahl in 1953, and together they had five children: Olivia, Theo, Tessa, Ophelia, and Lucy.
Career Highlights
Neal made her Broadway debut in the late 1940s and quickly gained fame for her stage work. She won a Tony Award for her role in Lillian Hellman’s play “Another Part of the Forest.” Patricia gained recognition in films such as “The Fountainhead,” “A Face in the Crowd,” and the classic “Hud,” for which she won the Oscar for Best Actress. Throughout her career, she faced health challenges but continued to act, taking memorable roles in film and television.
Death and Legacy
Patricia Neal passed away on August 9, 2010, in Edgartown, Massachusetts, due to lung cancer, at the age of 84. She is remembered for her unique talent and contributions to both film and theater. Her performances have left a lasting impact on audiences and the acting community alike.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast at Tiffany’s | 1961-10-06 | 2E Failenson |
| The Day the Earth Stood Still | 1951-09-28 | Helen Benson |
| A Face in the Crowd | 1957-05-29 | Marcia Jeffries |
| Hud | 1963-05-28 | Alma Brown |
| The Fountainhead | 1949-06-25 | Dominique Francon |