Ava Gardner, the iconic Hollywood actress, had a life filled with interesting facts and experiences. Here are some intriguing details about her life and career:
1. Abortions during her marriage to Frank Sinatra: Ava Gardner's personal life was often in the spotlight, and her turbulent marriage to Frank Sinatra was no exception. During their time together, she underwent two abortions, both of which occurred while she was filming the movie Mogambo in 1953. This highlights the challenges and sacrifices she faced as a woman in the entertainment industry at that time.
2. Louis B. Mayer's comment: Louis B. Mayer, the co-founder of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM), once made a rather controversial statement about Ava Gardner. He said, “She can't talk, she can't act, she's terrific.” While this comment may seem contradictory, it reflects the dichotomy of opinions surrounding Gardner's talent as an actress. Despite some criticism, she managed to establish herself as a successful and beloved film star.
3. Final years in London and relationship with Michael Winner: Towards the end of her life, Ava Gardner lived in London, and during this time, she became the dinner companion of the renowned British film director Michael Winner. Their relationship, though not romantic, was a significant part of her life during her final years. It's interesting to note the connection she formed with Winner and how it provided her with companionship and support.
4. Multilingual skills: Ava Gardner possessed impressive language skills, speaking both English and Spanish fluently. She was born in North Carolina, but her family had Spanish roots, which influenced her bilingual abilities. This linguistic versatility likely helped her in her international film career and made her even more appealing to audiences worldwide.
5. Beauty and allure: Ava Gardner was widely regarded as one of the most beautiful women in Hollywood during her time. Her stunning looks, combined with her magnetic presence, made her a sought-after leading lady. Her captivating screen presence and undeniable charm contributed to her icon status and enduring popularity.
6. Iconic roles and filmography: Gardner had an illustrious career, starring in numerous memorable films. Some of her most notable roles include Kitty Collins in The Killers (1946), Pandora Reynolds in Pandora and the Flying Dutchman (1951), and Maxine Faulk in The Night of the Iguana (1964). Her performances showcased her versatility as an actress and her ability to bring depth and complexity to her characters.
7. Love for animals: Ava Gardner had a deep affection for animals, particularly cats. She was known to have several cats as pets throughout her life, and she even had a pet deer named Pippin. This reveals her compassionate nature and the importance of animals in her personal life.
8. Feud with Howard Hughes: Gardner had a tumultuous relationship with billionaire businessman and aviator Howard Hughes. They had a passionate but volatile romance, and their relationship eventually turned sour. The two engaged in a highly publicized feud, with Gardner even suing Hughes for invasion of privacy. This episode in her life highlights the challenges of navigating relationships in the public eye.
These interesting facts about Ava Gardner shed light on her personal and professional life, showcasing the complexities and unique experiences she had throughout her career. From her relationships to her talents and passions, Gardner continues to be remembered as a captivating and enigmatic figure in Hollywood history.