Dame Olivia de Havilland was one of the last great stars of Hollywood’s Golden Age—an actress celebrated not only for her elegance and talent but also for her fierce independence. Born on July 1, 1916, in Tokyo to British parents, she moved to California as a child and, alongside her sister Joan Fontaine, rose to cinematic fame—both ultimately winning Academy Awards for Best Actress, a rare feat for siblings.
De Havilland debuted in the 1930s and quickly became a screen sensation, particularly in films opposite Errol Flynn like Captain Blood (1935) and The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938). Her most iconic role came as the gentle Melanie Hamilton in Gone with the Wind (1939), earning her an Oscar nomination. She later won two Academy Awards for her powerful performances in To Each His Own (1946) and The Heiress (1949).
Beyond her acting, de Havilland made history by challenging the studio system. In a groundbreaking 1940s lawsuit against Warner Bros., she fought for fair treatment of actors—winning a landmark case that became known as the “De Havilland Law.” Her courage reshaped Hollywood, giving performers greater freedom and control over their careers.
In later years, she lived in Paris, stepping back from the spotlight but remaining a cherished figure in film. In 2017, at age 101, she was honored as a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire for her contribution to drama.
Olivia de Havilland passed away on July 26, 2020, at the age of 104. A two-time Oscar winner, trailblazer, and enduring symbol of classic Hollywood, her legacy continues to inspire generations. She wasn’t just a star—she was a force who helped shape the industry from the inside out.
