Tallulah Bankhead was an American actress, best known for her roles in films such as Lifeboat, A Royal Scandal, and The Cheat.
Personal and Family Life
Tallulah Brockman Bankhead was born on January 31, 1902, in Huntsville, Alabama. Her father was a prominent figure in the Democratic Party, serving as the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives. At age 15, she began her acting career with local theater groups and eventually moved to New York City to pursue Broadway. She was briefly married to actor John Emery from 1937 to 1941.
Career Highlights
Tallulah Bankhead’s talent shone brightly on stage, especially in London’s West End, where she became a sensation. Although her early films did not achieve the same recognition, she gained fame in Hollywood with films like Lifeboat directed by Alfred Hitchcock. Despite some successful appearances in film, her heart always belonged to live theater, where she felt most fulfilled performing for an audience.
Death and Legacy
Tallulah Bankhead passed away on December 12, 1968, at the age of 66 due to pneumonia in New York City. Her colorful personality and unique voice left a lasting impression on both the stage and film industry. Today, her iconic phrase “Hello, Dahling” remains a memorable part of entertainment history.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeboat | 1944-01-28 | Connie Porter |
| Stage Door Canteen | 1943-06-24 | Tallulah Bankhead |
| A Royal Scandal | 1945-03-26 | Catherine the Great |
| Die! Die! My Darling! | 1965-03-21 | Mrs. Trefoile |
| The Cheat | 1931-11-28 | Elsa Carlyle |
| Devil and the Deep | 1932-08-12 | Diana Sturm |
| My Sin | 1931-09-26 | Carlotta / Ann Trevor |
| Faithless | 1932-10-15 | Carol Morgan |
| The Daydreamer | 1966-06-01 | The Sea Witch (voice) |
| Batman | 1966-01-12 | Black Widow |