Eva Marie Saint, an iconic figure of Hollywood's Golden Age, celebrated her 101st birthday, marking a century of a remarkable life filled with acting achievements, enduring love, and a timeless approach to well-being. As the oldest living and earliest surviving Academy Award winner, Saint's journey offers a glimpse into a life well-lived, marked by simple pleasures and a dedication to her craft.
From Bowling Green to the Waterfront: The Rise of a Star
Born on July 4, 1924, Eva Marie Saint's path to stardom began far from the glitz of Hollywood. A graduate of Bowling Green State University, where she studied acting and joined the Delta Gamma sorority, Saint's early career was rooted in television and radio. She appeared on NBC-TV's "Campus Hoopla" in the late 1940s, showcasing her talent on live television. Her performances from this period are preserved in the Library of Congress, offering a glimpse into the early days of her career.
Saint's breakthrough came with her film debut in Elia Kazan's "On the Waterfront" (1954), opposite Marlon Brando. Her portrayal of Edie Doyle earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, launching her into the spotlight. Film critic A. H. Weiler of The New York Times praised her performance, noting her ability to bring "tenderness and sensitivity to genuine romance" amidst the film's "scenes of carnage."
Navigating Hollywood: Choices and Triumphs
Following her Oscar win, Saint's career flourished. She starred alongside Bob Hope in "That Certain Feeling" (1956) and secured leading roles in "Raintree County" (1957) with Elizabeth Taylor and Montgomery Clift, and "A Hatful of Rain" (1957) with Don Murray. However, it was her role as Eve Kendall in Alfred Hitchcock's "North by Northwest" (1959), opposite Cary Grant, that solidified her status as a leading lady.
Hitchcock's decision to cast Saint surprised many, but her performance as the enigmatic femme fatale was widely praised. Abe H. Weiler of The New York Times noted that Hitchcock had "plumbed some talents not shown by the actress heretofore." Despite the potential for superstardom, Saint prioritized her family, limiting her film work to spend time with her husband, director Jeffrey Hayden, whom she married in 1951.
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A Lasting Partnership: Love, Laughter, and Shared Dreams
Eva Marie Saint's marriage to Jeffrey Hayden was a cornerstone of her life. They met in 1949 in the subway corridors under Rockefeller Center, a chance encounter that blossomed into a 65-year partnership. Hayden, a director of film, television, and stage, encouraged Saint to pursue her acting dreams, while she, in turn, supported his transition from radio to television.
Their relationship was built on mutual understanding and shared passions. They understood each other from the beginning. The couple raised a son and a daughter and later welcomed four grandchildren into their family. Their enduring love served as an inspiration to many in Hollywood.
The Art of Aging Gracefully: Lessons from a Centenarian
In recent years, as Eva Marie Saint approached and surpassed her 100th birthday, she has shared insights into her approach to life and well-being. While she jokingly dismissed medical advice, suggesting that "they say everything you eat and drink causes cancer," her life choices reflect a commitment to simple pleasures and a positive outlook.
Saint's longevity can be attributed to several factors:
- Strong Social Connections: Her 77-year marriage to Rosalynn was a source of strength and companionship. Research suggests that having strong social bonds can contribute to a longer life.
- Maintaining a Sense of Purpose: Like Norman Lear, who found purpose in his work, Saint continued to engage in her career, fueling her passion and drive.
- Embracing Simple Pleasures: Saint emphasized the importance of enjoying life's simple pleasures, such as spending time with family.
- Resilience in the Face of Loss: Following the death of her husband, Saint found solace in family, friends, and books, demonstrating her ability to navigate grief and loss.
- A Positive Attitude: Saint's parents instilled in her an "everything-happens-for-the-best" attitude, which helped her navigate challenges and maintain a sense of optimism.
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