Audrey Hepburn, a British actress, is considered one of the greatest female screen legends of Classic Hollywood, ranking third according to the American Film Institute. Her influence extended beyond acting, solidifying her status as a fashion icon with an induction into the International Best Dressed Hall of Fame List.
June 1900: Birth of Ella van Heemstra, Audrey Hepburn's mother.
Baroness Ella van Heemstra, Audrey Hepburn's mother, was born in June 1900.
1910: Aarnoud van Heemstra, Audrey Hepburn's grandfather, becomes mayor of Arnhem.
Aarnoud van Heemstra, Audrey Hepburn's grandfather, assumed the role of mayor of Arnhem in 1910.
1920: Aarnoud van Heemstra's tenure as mayor of Arnhem ends.
Aarnoud van Heemstra's time as mayor of Arnhem concluded in 1920.
1921: Aarnoud van Heemstra becomes governor of Dutch Guiana.
In 1921, Aarnoud van Heemstra took on the position of governor of Dutch Guiana.
1923: Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston becomes Honorary British Consul in Semarang.
Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston took on the role of Honorary British Consul in Semarang, Dutch East Indies in 1923.
1924: Birth of Jonkheer Ian Edgar Bruce Quarles van Ufford, Audrey Hepburn's half-brother.
Jonkheer Ian Edgar Bruce Quarles van Ufford, one of Audrey Hepburn's older half-brothers, was born in 1924.
1924: Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston ends his role as Honorary British Consul in Semarang.
Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston concluded his service as Honorary British Consul in Semarang in 1924.
1925: Divorce of Ella van Heemstra and her first husband.
Ella van Heemstra and Jonkheer Hendrik Gustaaf Adolf Quarles van Ufford got divorced in 1925.
September 1926: Marriage of Audrey Hepburn's parents.
Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston and Ella van Heemstra, Audrey Hepburn's parents, were married in Batavia, Dutch East Indies, in September 1926.
1928: Aarnoud van Heemstra finishes his term as governor of Dutch Guiana.
Aarnoud van Heemstra's term as governor of Dutch Guiana came to an end in 1928.
May 1929: Birth of Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Kathleen Ruston, later known as Audrey Hepburn, was born in May 1929 in Ixelles, Brussels, Belgium.
May 1929: Birth of Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Kathleen Ruston, later known as Audrey Hepburn, was born on May 4, 1929 in Ixelles, Brussels, Belgium. Her family called her Adriaantje.
1932: Audrey Hepburn's family settles in Linkebeek, Brussels.
After several years of moving between countries for her father's job, Audrey Hepburn's family established a permanent residence in Linkebeek, Brussels in 1932.
1935: Audrey Hepburn's father leaves the family.
Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston, Audrey Hepburn's father, left the family in 1935 after a significant disagreement in Brussels.
1936: Audrey Hepburn attends boarding school in England.
In 1936, Audrey Hepburn was sent to a boarding school in Kent, England.
1937: Audrey Hepburn is sent to live and study in Kent, England.
Audrey Hepburn, then known as Audrey Ruston or "Little Audrey," was sent to Kent, England, in 1937 to live and receive her education at a small, private institution in Elham.
1938: Audrey Hepburn's parents officially divorce.
In 1938, Audrey Hepburn's parents formally ended their marriage, making their separation official.
September 1939: Outbreak of World War II and Move to Arnhem
In September 1939, as World War II began, Audrey Hepburn's mother moved her to Arnhem, Netherlands, hoping to avoid the conflict.
1939: Audrey Hepburn leaves boarding school.
Audrey Hepburn's time at boarding school in Kent, England ended in 1939.
1939: Death of Elbrig Willemine Henriette van Asbeck, Audrey Hepburn's grandmother.
Elbrig Willemine Henriette van Asbeck, Audrey Hepburn's grandmother and a granddaughter of Count Dirk van Hogendorp, passed away in 1939.
1940: German Invasion of the Netherlands
The Netherlands was invaded by Germany in 1940, leading Hepburn to adopt the alias "Edda van Heemstra" for safety during the occupation.
1942: Family Tragedy and Shifting Allegiances
Tragedy struck in 1942 when Hepburn's uncle was executed, leading to a shift in her mother's perspective on the Nazi regime. This year also saw her half-brothers facing the realities of war, with one sent to a labor camp and the other going into hiding.
1944: Audrey Hepburn uses ballet to aid the Dutch resistance.
During World War II, Audrey Hepburn used her ballet skills to raise funds for the Dutch resistance in 1944.
1944: Operation Market Garden and Worsening Conditions
The situation in Arnhem worsened in 1944 during Operation Market Garden. The Dutch famine of 1944-45 forced Hepburn's family, like many others, to resort to desperate measures for sustenance.
October 1945: Recovery from Malnutrition
Following the war, Hepburn suffered severe health issues due to malnutrition. In October 1945, she received life-saving penicillin obtained through her mother's contacts.
1945: Move to Amsterdam and Ballet Training
Hepburn moved to Amsterdam in 1945 to pursue ballet training while her mother worked to support the family.
1945: Audrey Hepburn begins studying ballet with Sonia Gaskell.
In 1945, Audrey Hepburn began studying ballet in Amsterdam under the tutelage of Sonia Gaskell.
1945: End of World War II and Return to Amsterdam
In 1945, with the war's end, Hepburn moved to Amsterdam to pursue ballet training, marking a turning point in her life.
1948: Film Debut and Move to London
Hepburn made her film debut in "Seven Lessons" in 1948. The same year, she moved to London after receiving a ballet scholarship.
1948: West End Debut
Hepburn debuted on the West End in the musical "High Button Shoes" in 1948 while working part-time as a model.
1948: Audrey Hepburn's Early Career: From Flight Attendant to Chorus Girl
Audrey Hepburn's career began in 1948 with her debut as a flight attendant in the Dutch film "Dutch in Seven Lessons", followed by her role as a chorus girl in the British musical "High Button Shoes".
1948: Audrey Hepburn moves to London to study ballet with Marie Rambert.
Audrey Hepburn relocated to London in 1948 to further her ballet training with Marie Rambert.
1949: Audrey Hepburn's Continued Stage Work
In 1949, Audrey Hepburn continued to perform on stage as a chorus girl in the British musical "Sauce Tartare".
1949: Theater Performances and Elocution Lessons
In 1949, Hepburn appeared in "Sauce Tartare" at the Cambridge Theatre and began taking elocution lessons to refine her voice.
1950: Continued Stage Work and Nightclub Performance
Hepburn continued performing in theater productions in 1950, including "Sauce Piquante" and a notable revue at Ciro's London nightclub.
September 1951: Screen Test for "Roman Holiday"
In September 1951, Audrey Hepburn took a screen test for the film "Roman Holiday" directed by William Wyler. This test, sent by Thorold Dickinson, impressed Wyler so much that he cast Hepburn over other prominent actresses like Elizabeth Taylor.
November 1951: Broadway Debut in "Gigi"
Hepburn made her Broadway debut in November 1951 as Gigi, garnering positive reviews for her performance.
1951: Television and Film Roles
Hepburn appeared in her first BBC Television play, "The Silent Village," and secured minor roles in several films in 1951.
May 1952: Conclusion of "Gigi"'s Broadway Run
After a successful run, the Broadway production of "Gigi" closed in May 1952.
October 1952: "Gigi" US Tour
Hepburn embarked on a US tour with "Gigi" in October 1952, performing in various cities.
1952: Engagement and Decision on Marriage
In 1952, Hepburn became engaged to James Hanson, an industrialist she had met earlier in her time in London. However, she made the difficult decision to call off the engagement, recognizing that the demands of their respective careers would make a true marriage challenging. Her belief in prioritizing a fulfilling partnership over career aspirations was evident in her public statement, "When I get married, I want to be really married."
1952: Breakthrough Role and Film Appearance
In 1952, Hepburn landed her first significant supporting role as a ballerina in "Secret People," showcasing her dance skills. She also appeared in the bilingual film "Monte Carlo Baby."
May 1953: End of "Gigi" US Tour
The US tour of "Gigi" concluded in May 1953, marking the end of Hepburn's run in the play.
September 1953: Time Magazine Cover and Style Icon
On September 7, 1953, Audrey Hepburn graced the cover of Time magazine, solidifying her status as a prominent figure. Her personal style also began gaining recognition and influencing fashion trends.
1953: Audrey Hepburn Wins Academy Award for Best Actress
Audrey Hepburn received the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in "Roman Holiday" in 1953.
1953: Audrey Hepburn's Hollywood Breakthrough in "Roman Holiday"
Audrey Hepburn's performance as a runaway princess in William Wyler's "Roman Holiday" (1953) catapulted her to Hollywood stardom. Her performance earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress, a BAFTA Award, and a Golden Globe Award.
1953: Audrey Hepburn achieves breakthrough with "Roman Holiday".
Audrey Hepburn's performance in "Roman Holiday" alongside Gregory Peck in 1953 catapulted her to fame, earning her an Oscar, a Golden Globe Award, and a BAFTA Award.
1953: Audrey Hepburn's Unique Feminine Ideal in "Roman Holiday"
With her breakout role in "Roman Holiday" (1953), Audrey Hepburn presented a distinct feminine ideal that resonated more with women than the overtly glamorous images of actresses like Grace Kelly and Elizabeth Taylor. Her androgynous charm and relatable style made her an icon for a new generation.
1953: Critical Acclaim for "Roman Holiday"
Audrey Hepburn received significant praise for her performance in "Roman Holiday" in 1953. Critics like A. H. Weiler from The New York Times commended her charm, innocence, and talent.
1953: "Roman Holiday" Release and Critical Acclaim
1953 marked the release of "Roman Holiday," where Audrey Hepburn played Princess Ann. The film was a box-office hit, earning Hepburn widespread critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Actress.
September 1954: Broadway Success with "Ondine" and Marriage
In September 1954, Hepburn's stage performance in "Ondine" earned her a Tony Award for Best Actress, making her one of three actresses to win both a Tony and an Academy Award in the same year. This period also marked her marriage to co-star Mel Ferrer.
September 1954: Marriage to Mel Ferrer
On September 25th, 1954, Audrey Hepburn married Mel Ferrer in Bürgenstock, Switzerland. Their union came after a period of collaboration on the play "Ondine" and while they were preparing for their roles in the film adaptation of "War and Peace."
1954: Audrey Hepburn stars in "Sabrina".
Audrey Hepburn starred in the film "Sabrina" in 1954, a romantic comedy where her character is pursued by characters played by Humphrey Bogart and William Holden.
1954: The Beginning of Hepburn and Givenchy's Collaboration
Audrey Hepburn's association with French couturier Hubert de Givenchy began in 1954 with the film "Sabrina." Givenchy, who initially expected to meet Katharine Hepburn, instead found a lifelong muse in Audrey.
1954: Audrey Hepburn begins her involvement with UNICEF.
Audrey Hepburn's commitment to humanitarian work began in 1954 when she started contributing to UNICEF.
1954: "Sabrina" Release and Award Nominations
Hepburn starred in Billy Wilder's "Sabrina" in 1954, receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and winning a BAFTA Award for her performance.
1954: Audrey Hepburn's Success in Film and on Broadway
In 1954, Audrey Hepburn starred in Billy Wilder's romantic comedy "Sabrina" and won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her role as the water nymph in "Ondine".
1954: Cecil Beaton Declares Hepburn the "Public Embodiment of Our New Feminine Ideal"
In 1954, renowned fashion photographer Cecil Beaton, writing for Vogue, proclaimed Audrey Hepburn as the "public embodiment of our new feminine ideal." Her gamine look, characterized by a pixie cut, bold eyebrows, and slender physique, became widely influential.
1955: Golden Globe for World Film Favorite
Despite not appearing in any new film releases in 1955, Hepburn's global popularity earned her the Golden Globe Award for World Film Favorite.
1956: Starring in "War and Peace"
Hepburn and Ferrer starred in the film adaptation of "War and Peace" in 1956.
1956: "War and Peace" Release
Hepburn starred as Natasha Rostova in the 1956 film adaptation of "War and Peace," showcasing her acting prowess alongside Henry Fonda and Mel Ferrer.
1957: "Funny Face" and "Love in the Afternoon" Releases
1957 saw Hepburn demonstrating her dancing skills in the musical "Funny Face" with Fred Astaire and starring in the romantic comedy "Love in the Afternoon" alongside Gary Cooper and Maurice Chevalier.
1957: Givenchy Designs for Hepburn and Launch of L'Interdit Perfume
Hubert de Givenchy continued to design costumes for several of Audrey Hepburn's films, including "Love in the Afternoon" (1957), "Funny Face" (1957), and "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1961). Hepburn's on-screen style became as iconic as her roles. She also became the face of Givenchy's first perfume, L'Interdit, that same year.
1957: Audrey Hepburn showcases her singing talents in "Funny Face".
In the 1957 musical "Funny Face", Audrey Hepburn showcased her singing abilities by performing her own musical parts.
1959: "Green Mansions" Release
In 1959, Hepburn starred as Rima, a jungle girl, in the romantic adventure film "Green Mansions," opposite Anthony Perkins. The film received a lukewarm reception.
1959: Audrey Hepburn Discusses Insecurities and Self-Image
In a candid 1959 interview, Audrey Hepburn revealed her struggles with self-image, stating, "you can even say that I hated myself at certain periods." Despite being considered a beauty icon, she grappled with insecurities about her appearance.
1959: Critically Acclaimed Performance in "The Nun's Story"
Hepburn's performance as Sister Luke in the 1959 film "The Nun's Story" garnered significant critical acclaim, earning her an Academy Award nomination and her second BAFTA Award. Critics praised her dedication and the depth of her performance.
1959: Audrey Hepburn stars in "The Nun's Story".
Audrey Hepburn starred in the drama film "The Nun's Story" in 1959.
June 1960: Birth of Sean Hepburn Ferrer
On June 17th, 1960, Hepburn gave birth to her first child, Sean Hepburn Ferrer, bringing immense joy to the couple. The arrival of their son marked a new chapter in their lives.
1960: "The Unforgiven" Release
Hepburn starred in her only Western film, "The Unforgiven," in 1960, sharing the screen with Burt Lancaster and Lillian Gish. The film dealt with the theme of racism against Native Americans.
1960: Funeral of Audrey Hepburn
Hepburn's funeral took place on January 24th, 1993, at the village church of Tolochenaz. The service was led by Reverend Maurice Eindiguer, who had officiated her wedding to Mel Ferrer and baptized their son, Sean, in 1960.
1961: "The Children's Hour" Release
Hepburn starred alongside Shirley MacLaine in the 1961 drama "The Children's Hour," directed by William Wyler. The film, dealing with sensitive themes, received mixed reviews, though Hepburn's performance was generally lauded.
1961: Iconic Role in "Breakfast at Tiffany's"
Hepburn's portrayal of Holly Golightly in Blake Edwards's 1961 film "Breakfast at Tiffany's" became one of her most iconic roles. Her performance garnered an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Her little black dress from the film's opening credits became a fashion icon.
1961: Givenchy's Designs for "Breakfast at Tiffany's"
Hubert de Givenchy's iconic designs for "Breakfast at Tiffany's" (1961), particularly the little black dress, solidified Audrey Hepburn's status as a fashion icon.
1961: Audrey Hepburn's Minimalistic Style and Association with Givenchy
Inducted into the International Best Dressed List in 1961, Audrey Hepburn became synonymous with a minimalistic yet elegant style. Her collaborations with Hubert de Givenchy, starting with "Sabrina" (1954), cemented her fashion legacy.
1961: Audrey Hepburn charms audiences in "Breakfast at Tiffany's".
The year 1961 saw Audrey Hepburn captivating audiences in the romantic comedy "Breakfast at Tiffany's".
1962: Filming of Paris When It Sizzles
Although released in 1964, "Paris When It Sizzles" was filmed in 1962. This screwball comedy paired Hepburn with William Holden again after their work on "Sabrina." The production was fraught with difficulties, including Holden's personal struggles and Hepburn's clashes with the cinematographer.
1963: Givenchy Designs for "Charade"
Audrey Hepburn continued her collaboration with Hubert de Givenchy in 1963, wearing his designs in the romantic thriller "Charade." The film's stylish wardrobe further cemented Hepburn's status as a fashion icon.
1963: Audrey Hepburn stars alongside Cary Grant in "Charade".
Audrey Hepburn shared the screen with Cary Grant in the 1963 thriller-romance film "Charade".
1963: Release of Charade
In 1963, Audrey Hepburn starred in the comic thriller "Charade" alongside Cary Grant, playing a young widow pursued by men seeking her murdered husband's stolen fortune. The film was notable for the age difference between Hepburn and Grant, and the adjustments made to the screenplay to address Grant's concerns. "Charade" was well-received, earning Hepburn her third BAFTA Award.
1964: Audrey Hepburn stars in the musical "My Fair Lady".
Audrey Hepburn's talent graced the screen in the 1964 musical "My Fair Lady".
1964: Critical Acclaim for My Fair Lady
Hepburn received critical acclaim for her performance in "My Fair Lady" in 1964, with praise for her portrayal of Eliza Doolittle. The film garnered positive reviews, and while Andrews won an Oscar for her stage performance, Hepburn earned nominations for a Golden Globe and a New York Film Critics Circle award.
1964: Release of Paris When It Sizzles
In 1964, "Paris When It Sizzles," starring Audrey Hepburn and William Holden, premiered. Despite a troubled production, critics gave generally positive reviews of Hepburn's performance.
1964: Givenchy's Designs for "Paris When It Sizzles"
The collaboration between Audrey Hepburn and Hubert de Givenchy continued in 1964 with the film "Paris When It Sizzles." Givenchy's designs perfectly complemented Hepburn's on-screen persona.
1964: Premiere of My Fair Lady
The film adaptation of the musical "My Fair Lady" premiered in October 1964. Hepburn's casting as Eliza Doolittle sparked controversy, as Julie Andrews had originated the role on stage. Hepburn's vocals in the film were dubbed by Marni Nixon, which initially upset Hepburn.
1966: Givenchy's Designs for "How to Steal a Million"
Audrey Hepburn's final film collaboration with Hubert de Givenchy was for the heist comedy "How to Steal a Million" (1966). Their partnership produced some of the most memorable cinematic fashion moments.
1966: Release of How to Steal a Million
In 1966, Hepburn starred in the heist comedy "How to Steal a Million," playing the daughter of an art collector whose collection is discovered to be comprised of forgeries. She teams up with a character played by Peter O'Toole to navigate the situation.
1967: Releases of Two for the Road and Wait Until Dark
Hepburn starred in two films released in 1967: "Two for the Road" and "Wait Until Dark." The former, an innovative dramedy, saw her portray a woman in a troubled marriage, while the latter, a suspense thriller, showcased her acting range as a terrorized blind woman. She received her fifth Oscar nomination for "Wait Until Dark."
1967: Audrey Hepburn's performance in "Wait Until Dark" earns her award nominations.
Audrey Hepburn's performance in the 1967 thriller "Wait Until Dark" garnered her nominations for an Academy Award, a Golden Globe, and a BAFTA Award.
June 1968: Meeting Andrea Dotti
In June 1968, during a Mediterranean cruise, Hepburn met Italian psychiatrist Andrea Dotti, sparking a new romantic interest in her life.
1968: Divorce from Mel Ferrer
After 14 years of marriage, Hepburn and Ferrer decided to part ways in 1968, marking the end of a significant chapter in both their lives.
January 1969: Marriage to Andrea Dotti
Hepburn married Andrea Dotti on January 18th, 1969. Following her marriage, she expressed a desire to expand their family and possibly take a step back from her acting career.
February 1970: Birth of Luca Andrea Dotti
On February 8th, 1970, Hepburn and Dotti welcomed their son, Luca Andrea Dotti, into the world. Hepburn's approach to this pregnancy reflected greater caution and a focus on her health.
1974: Miscarriage
In 1974, Hepburn experienced the heartbreak of a miscarriage, a deeply personal loss.
1976: Audrey Hepburn stars opposite Sean Connery in "Robin and Marian".
Audrey Hepburn starred in the film "Robin and Marian" in 1976, sharing the screen with Sean Connery.
1976: Release of Robin and Marian
In 1976, Hepburn attempted a comeback in the moderately successful period piece "Robin and Marian," playing Maid Marian opposite Sean Connery as Robin Hood. Her performance and chemistry with Connery were praised.
1979: Death of Jonkheer Arnoud Robert Alexander Quarles van Ufford, Audrey Hepburn's half-brother
Jonkheer Arnoud Robert Alexander Quarles van Ufford, one of Audrey Hepburn's older half-brothers, passed away in 1979.
1979: Infidelity in Marriage
During the filming of "Bloodline" in 1979, Hepburn's marriage to Dotti faced challenges, including infidelity from both sides.
1979: Release of Bloodline
Hepburn starred in "Bloodline" in 1979, a film directed by Terence Young, with whom she had worked on previous projects. The film, an international intrigue set among the jet-set, was a critical and commercial disappointment.
October 1980: Death of Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston, Audrey Hepburn's father.
Joseph Victor Anthony Ruston, Audrey Hepburn's father, passed away in October 1980.
1980: Relationship with Robert Wolders
From 1980 until her passing, Hepburn found companionship and love with Dutch actor Robert Wolders, the widower of actress Merle Oberon. Their paths crossed through a mutual friend, marking the beginning of a meaningful relationship.
1981: Release of They All Laughed
In 1981, Hepburn's last starring role in a feature film was in the comedy "They All Laughed," directed by Peter Bogdanovich. The film was overshadowed by the murder of one of its stars, Dorothy Stratten, and received only a limited release.
1982: Divorce from Andrea Dotti
After 12 years of marriage, Hepburn and Dotti finalized their divorce in 1982.
August 1984: Death of Ella van Heemstra, Audrey Hepburn's mother.
Baroness Ella van Heemstra passed away in August 1984.
1987: Appearance in Love Among Thieves
Hepburn co-starred with Robert Wagner in the made-for-television caper film "Love Among Thieves" in 1987. This marked one of her final acting roles before retiring from acting.
August 1988: Immunization Campaign in Turkey
In August 1988, Audrey Hepburn embarked on an immunization campaign in Turkey, a country she praised for its remarkable support of UNICEF's efforts. She highlighted the successful collaboration with various sectors of Turkish society, including the army and fishmongers, which resulted in the vaccination of the entire country within a mere ten days.
1988: First Field Mission for UNICEF
In 1988, Audrey Hepburn embarked on her first field mission for UNICEF, traveling to Ethiopia, where she visited an orphanage in Mek'ele that housed 500 malnourished children. She facilitated the delivery of food supplies to the orphanage through UNICEF.
1988: Audrey Hepburn intensifies her work with UNICEF.
From 1988 onwards, Audrey Hepburn dedicated a significant portion of her time to UNICEF, working tirelessly in some of the most impoverished communities across Africa, South America, and Asia.
February 1989: Central America Tour and Advocacy
Hepburn toured Central America in February 1989, engaging with leaders in Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala to address pressing issues.
October 1989: Operation Lifeline Mission to Bangladesh
In October 1989, Audrey Hepburn and Robert Wolders journeyed to Bangladesh as part of "Operation Lifeline," a mission aimed at delivering essential food aid to the southern region amidst civil unrest. Her compassion and genuine affection for the children, as observed by UN photographer John Isaac, left a lasting impact.
1989: Appointment as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador
Audrey Hepburn was appointed a Goodwill Ambassador of UNICEF in 1989. Deeply grateful for the international aid she received as a child during World War II, she dedicated herself to giving back to the organization.
1989: Audrey Hepburn on Attainability of Her Look
Despite being a fashion icon, Audrey Hepburn emphasized the accessibility of her style in 1989, stating that women could achieve her look with simple elements like a flipped hairstyle, oversized sunglasses, and sleeveless dresses.
1989: Cameo Appearance in Always
In 1989, Hepburn made a cameo appearance as an angel in Steven Spielberg's film "Always." This marked her final appearance in a feature film.
1989: Reflecting on Happiness and Partnership
In 1989, Hepburn openly shared that her nine years with Wolders had been the happiest of her life. She expressed a deep sense of fulfillment and considered their bond equivalent to marriage, even without formalizing it.
October 1990: Collaboration with Vietnam for UNICEF Initiatives
In October 1990, Hepburn traveled to Vietnam to collaborate with the government on national UNICEF-supported programs focused on immunization and the provision of clean water.
1990: Filming of Gardens of the World
Throughout the spring and summer of 1990, Hepburn dedicated her time to filming "Gardens of the World with Audrey Hepburn," a PBS documentary series that showcased gardens from different countries and reflected her passion for gardening.
1990: Audrey Hepburn stars in and narrates "Gardens of the World with Audrey Hepburn".
Audrey Hepburn's final recorded performance was in the 1990 documentary television series "Gardens of the World with Audrey Hepburn". This work later earned her a Primetime Emmy Award.
March 1991: Premiere of Gardens of the World Special
A one-hour special for the PBS documentary series "Gardens of the World with Audrey Hepburn" premiered in March 1991. The series, filmed in various countries, focused on Hepburn's love of gardening.
1991: Film Society of Lincoln Center Tribute
Audrey Hepburn received a tribute from the Film Society of Lincoln Center in 1991, acknowledging her significant contributions to the world of cinema.
September 1992: Humanitarian Trip to Somalia and Witnessing Famine
In September 1992, just months before her passing, Hepburn embarked on a poignant humanitarian trip to Somalia, where she was profoundly affected by the scale of the famine. Describing the situation as "apocalyptic," she was particularly struck by the severity of the crisis, surpassing her previous experiences in Ethiopia and Bangladesh.
September 1992: Diagnosis with Abdominal Cancer
Upon returning to Switzerland from Somalia in late September 1992, Hepburn began experiencing abdominal pain, prompting medical investigations. After initial tests in Switzerland proved inconclusive, a laparoscopy conducted at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles in early November revealed a rare form of abdominal cancer known as pseudomyxoma peritonei.
December 1992: Audrey Hepburn receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
In December 1992, Audrey Hepburn was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by the United States for her tireless work and dedication as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador.
1992: Audrey Hepburn Receives BAFTA Special Award
Audrey Hepburn received a BAFTA Special Award in 1992, acknowledging her significant contributions to the film industry.
1992: BAFTA Lifetime Achievement Award
In 1992, Audrey Hepburn was honored with the prestigious BAFTA Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing her remarkable career and impact on the entertainment industry.
1992: Recording of Audrey Hepburn's Enchanted Tales
In 1992, Hepburn recorded "Audrey Hepburn's Enchanted Tales," a spoken word album featuring her readings of classic children's stories. The album earned her a posthumous Grammy Award.
January 1993: Death of Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn passed away in January 1993 at her home in Tolochenaz, Vaud, Switzerland at the age of 63.
January 1993: Posthumous Premiere and Emmy Award
The "Gardens of the World with Audrey Hepburn" series premiered on PBS on January 24, 1993, coinciding with her funeral. Hepburn was posthumously awarded the 1993 Emmy Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement – Informational Programming for the "Flower Gardens" episode.
January 1993: Passing of Audrey Hepburn
On January 20, 1993, Audrey Hepburn peacefully passed away in her sleep at home. Her death was met with profound sadness from admirers worldwide who recognized her not only for her on-screen talent but also for her extraordinary humanitarian contributions.
1993: Audrey Hepburn's Legacy as a Style Icon
After her death in 1993, Audrey Hepburn's influence as a style icon continued to grow, inspiring fashion magazines, designers, and polls celebrating her timeless elegance.
1993: Establishment of the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund
Shortly after Audrey Hepburn's death in 1993, her son, Sean Ferrer, established the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund (originally named Hollywood for Children Inc.) to honor her memory and continue her humanitarian legacy.
1993: Audrey Hepburn Receives Posthumous Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award
In 1993, Audrey Hepburn was posthumously awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in recognition of her humanitarian work.
1993: Posthumous Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award
Audrey Hepburn was posthumously awarded the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 1993, highlighting her dedication to humanitarian work and philanthropy.
1994: Audrey Hepburn receives a posthumous Grammy Award.
In 1994, a year after her death, Audrey Hepburn received a posthumous Grammy Award for her contributions to the spoken-word recording "Audrey Hepburn's Enchanted Tales".
2000: Release of "The Audrey Hepburn Story"
The year 2000 saw the release of "The Audrey Hepburn Story," a dramatized biographical film about the life of the iconic actress, starring Jennifer Love Hewitt and Emmy Rossum.
2002: Posthumous Recognition and Legacy Honored by UNICEF
In 2002, Hepburn's enduring legacy of humanitarian work was commemorated at the United Nations Special Session on Children, where UNICEF unveiled a statue named "The Spirit of Audrey" at their New York headquarters. This tribute symbolized her profound impact on improving the lives of children worldwide.
2006: Gap Commercial Features Audrey Hepburn
In 2006, a Gap commercial featured clips of Audrey Hepburn dancing from the film "Funny Face," set to AC/DC's "Back in Black." The campaign, which promoted the return of their skinny black pants, also benefited the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund.
2006: Record-Breaking Sale of Hepburn's "Breakfast at Tiffany's" Dress
One of the iconic "little black dresses" worn by Audrey Hepburn in "Breakfast at Tiffany's" was sold at a Christie's auction for a record-breaking £467,200 in 2006, highlighting the enduring value and influence of her style.
January 2009: Audrey Hepburn Named One of the Top 10 British Actresses of All Time
In January 2009, The Times included Audrey Hepburn in their list of the top 10 British actresses of all time, solidifying her legacy in the film industry.
2010: Emma Thompson's Opinion on Audrey Hepburn's Talent
In 2010, actress Emma Thompson sparked a debate by stating that Audrey Hepburn "can't sing and she can't really act." While some agreed with Thompson's assessment, others defended Hepburn's talent as a movie star, including her son Sean.
2010: Death of Jonkheer Ian Edgar Bruce Quarles van Ufford, Audrey Hepburn's half-brother.
Jonkheer Ian Edgar Bruce Quarles van Ufford, Audrey Hepburn's half-brother, passed away in 2010.
2012: Audrey Hepburn Featured on Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band Album Cover
Artist Sir Peter Blake chose Audrey Hepburn as one of the British cultural icons to be featured on a new version of the Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band" album cover in 2012. This tribute celebrated influential British cultural figures.
2012: Sean Ferrer Steps Down as Chairman of the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund
In 2012, Sean Ferrer resigned from his position as Chairman of the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund, with his half-brother, Luca Dotti, assuming the role.
2013: Computer-Generated Audrey Hepburn in Galaxy Chocolate Advert
In 2013, a computer-generated image of Audrey Hepburn was used in a television advertisement for Galaxy chocolate, demonstrating the enduring appeal of her image.
May 2014: Google Doodle Honors Audrey Hepburn's 85th Birthday
On May 4, 2014, Google commemorated Audrey Hepburn's 85th birthday with a special doodle on their homepage, a testament to her enduring global recognition.
2014: Sean Ferrer Becomes Rare Disease Ambassador
Sean Ferrer became a rare disease ambassador in 2014, advocating for the European Organisation for Rare Diseases. This role held special significance as his mother, Audrey Hepburn, passed away from the rare cancer pseudomyxoma peritonei.
2015: Audrey Hepburn Voted "Most Stylish Brit of All Time"
In 2015, a Samsung poll named Audrey Hepburn "the most stylish Brit of all time", solidifying her enduring legacy as a fashion icon.
2015: Sean Ferrer Continues as Rare Disease Ambassador
Sean Ferrer continued his work as a rare disease ambassador in 2015, raising awareness and support for the European Organisation for Rare Diseases.
2016: Airborne Museum Research
In 2016, the Airborne Museum 'Hartenstein' conducted research and found no evidence of Hepburn's direct involvement in the Dutch resistance.
October 2017: Sean Ferrer Sues Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund
In October 2017, Sean Ferrer, Audrey Hepburn's son, filed a lawsuit against the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund for trademark infringement, alleging the Fund was improperly using his mother's name and likeness.
March 2018: Dismissal of Sean Ferrer's Lawsuit
Sean Ferrer's lawsuit against the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund was dismissed in March 2018 due to a procedural issue, as Luca Dotti, Ferrer's half-brother, was not included as a defendant.
2019: Robert Matzen's Book
A 2019 book by Robert Matzen presented evidence, based on Hepburn's accounts, that she supported the resistance through fundraising concerts and other means.
2019: Court Rules in Favor of Sean Ferrer in Trademark Case
The court ruled in favor of Sean Ferrer in 2019, stating that the Audrey Hepburn Children's Fund did not have the independent right to use Audrey Hepburn's name and likeness without Ferrer's consent.
2020: Release of Documentary "Audrey"
The documentary "Audrey," directed by Helena Coan, was released in 2020. Produced with the help of Hepburn's son and granddaughter, the film offered an intimate look into her life and career.