Evelyn Keyes, a renowned actress and activist, captivated audiences with her talent and charm throughout her impressive career.
Rising to stardom with her unforgettable role in the classic film ‘Gone With the Wind,’ Keyes became a household name.
Beyond the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, she passionately advocated for social and political causes close to her heart.
This article delves into the intriguing life of Evelyn Keyes, exploring her early beginnings, personal life, career challenges, and lasting legacy.
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Early Life and Career Beginnings
During her early life and career beginnings, Evelyn Keyes faced numerous challenges and setbacks, but her determination and passion for acting propelled her towards success.
Born on November 20, 1916, in Port Arthur, Texas, Keyes grew up in poverty. Her parents divorced when she was just a young child, and she was raised by her mother and stepfather. Despite these difficult circumstances, Keyes developed a love for performing at an early age. She began taking dance lessons and participating in school plays, which ignited her passion for the arts.
Keyes’ career in Hollywood began in the late 1930s when she signed a contract with Cecil B. DeMille’s production company, Paramount Pictures. She made her film debut in 1938 with a minor role in ‘The Buccaneer.’ Although her early roles were often small and uncredited, Keyes quickly caught the attention of critics and audiences alike with her natural talent and charisma.
In 1939, Keyes landed a breakthrough role in the film ‘Gone with the Wind,’ playing Suellen O’Hara, the younger sister of the protagonist Scarlett O’Hara. This iconic role catapulted Keyes to stardom and established her as a rising star in Hollywood. She went on to appear in numerous films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, further solidifying her reputation as a versatile and talented actress.
Despite facing personal and professional challenges throughout her career, including failed marriages and health issues, Keyes remained dedicated to her craft. She continued to work in film, television, and theater until her retirement in the 1970s. Evelyn Keyes’ early life and career beginnings serve as a testament to the power of determination and perseverance in achieving one’s goals in the face of adversity.
Evelyn Keyes Body Measurements And Personal Details:-
Full Name:Evelyn Keyes
Date of Birth:November 20, 1916
Date of Death:2008-07-04
Birthplace:Port Arthur
Birth City:Texas
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Country:United States
Horoscope:Scorpio
Father:Not Available
Mother:Not Available
Spouse:Artie Shaw
Children(s):Pablo Huston
Height:5 ft 4 in / 163 cm
Weight:126lb / 57 kg
Breast/Bust size:34 in / 87 cm
Waist size:25 in / 64 cm
Hips size:35 in / 89 cm
Bra size:38B (US) / 85B (EU)
Hair Color:Blonde
Eye Color:Blue
Nationality:American
Race / ethnicity:White
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Rise to Stardom in ‘Gone With the Wind
After landing a breakthrough role in the iconic film ‘Gone with the Wind,’ Evelyn Keyes rose to stardom and cemented her place in Hollywood history. Released in 1939, ‘Gone with the Wind’ became a cultural phenomenon and is considered one of the greatest films ever made. Keyes portrayed Suellen O’Hara, the younger sister of the film’s protagonist, Scarlett O’Hara, played by Vivien Leigh. Although her role was relatively small compared to some of the other characters, Keyes made a lasting impression with her performance.
‘Gone with the Wind’ provided Keyes with the exposure and recognition she needed to launch her career. The film’s immense success led to a surge in popularity for its cast, including Keyes. She quickly became a sought-after actress in Hollywood, receiving numerous offers for roles in both film and television.
Keyes’ performance in ‘Gone with the Wind’ showcased her talent and versatility as an actress, earning her critical acclaim. Her portrayal of Suellen O’Hara was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth. The film’s success also opened doors for Keyes to work with renowned directors and actors, further solidifying her place in the industry.
Personal Life and Marriages
Following her rise to stardom in ‘Gone with the Wind’, Evelyn Keyes had a personal life filled with multiple marriages and intriguing relationships. Keyes’ first marriage was to Barton Bainbridge, a wealthy businessman, in 1938. However, the couple divorced just a year later due to irreconcilable differences.
In 1943, Keyes married actor-director Charles Vidor. Their marriage lasted for nearly a decade, but eventually ended in divorce in 1951. During their marriage, Keyes starred in several films directed by Vidor, including the critically acclaimed ‘The Desperadoes’ in 1943.
Following her divorce from Vidor, Keyes embarked on a tumultuous relationship with actor-director John Huston. The couple had a passionate affair, but their relationship was marred by Huston’s infidelity. They eventually broke up in 1953.
In 1958, Keyes married her third husband, bandleader Artie Shaw. However, their relationship was short-lived and they divorced in 1985. Keyes’ fourth and final marriage was to playwright and screenwriter John Lee Mahin. They remained together until Mahin’s death in 2005. Throughout her personal life, Keyes’ marriages and relationships were marked by both success and heartbreak. Despite the challenges, Keyes remained resilient and continued to pursue her acting career with dedication and passion.
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Activism and Political Involvement
Throughout her life and career, Evelyn Keyes demonstrated a deep commitment to activism and political involvement. She used her platform as a well-known actress to advocate for various causes and actively participate in political campaigns.
Keyes was a staunch supporter of the civil rights movement and was involved in numerous activities to promote racial equality. She marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the historic Selma to Montgomery march in 1965 and actively campaigned for the Voting Rights Act. She also participated in fundraisers and events aimed at combating racial discrimination and promoting social justice.
In addition to her involvement in civil rights, Keyes was also passionate about environmental issues. She worked closely with organizations dedicated to protecting the environment and raising awareness about climate change. Her efforts included participating in protests, speaking at conferences, and using her celebrity status to draw attention to the importance of environmental conservation.
Keyes also actively supported political candidates who aligned with her values and beliefs. She campaigned for several Democratic candidates and used her influence to encourage voter participation and engagement.
Career Challenges and Later Years
In the later years of her career, Keyes faced various challenges that impacted her professional trajectory. Despite her early success in Hollywood, Keyes found it difficult to secure substantial roles as she entered her forties. The film industry’s preference for younger actresses limited her opportunities and she struggled to find substantial leading roles. Keyes also faced personal challenges, including a divorce from her second husband, director Charles Vidor, which added to her professional setbacks.
In an effort to revive her career, Keyes turned to television and stage work. She appeared in numerous television shows and made guest appearances on popular programs such as ‘The Twilight Zone’ and ‘Perry Mason.’ Keyes also found success on the stage, starring in productions such as ‘The Chalk Garden’ and ‘The Gazebo.’ However, her success in these mediums did not reach the same heights as her earlier film career.
Despite these challenges, Keyes remained active in the entertainment industry until her retirement in the late 1970s. She continued to make occasional film appearances and enjoyed a modest career resurgence in the 1980s with roles in films such as ‘The Two Jakes’ and ‘Cross Creek.’ Keyes’ determination and resilience in the face of adversity are a testament to her passion for acting and her commitment to her craft.
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Legacy and Impact
Keyes’ enduring legacy and lasting impact on the entertainment industry are undeniable. Throughout her career, she left a mark that continues to inspire and influence generations of actors and actresses. Keyes’ talent and versatility as an actress allowed her to excel in a variety of roles, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
Keyes’ portrayal of Suellen O’Hara in the iconic film ‘Gone with the Wind’ solidified her place in cinematic history. Her performance captured the essence of the character and showcased her ability to bring depth and emotion to the screen. This role propelled Keyes into the spotlight and established her as a respected actress in Hollywood.
In addition to her acting skills, Keyes also made significant contributions to the film industry behind the scenes. She was an advocate for equal pay and fair treatment for women in the industry, actively working towards creating a more inclusive and diverse entertainment landscape.
Keyes’ impact extended beyond her film career. She authored a memoir titled ‘Scarlett O’Hara’s Younger Sister: My Lively Life In and Out of Hollywood,’ in which she shared her experiences and insights into the industry. Her book remains a valuable resource for aspiring actors and provides a unique perspective on the golden age of Hollywood.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Evelyn Keyes was a talented actress who rose to fame with her role in ‘Gone With the Wind.’ She faced career challenges and personal struggles throughout her life but remained passionate about her activism and political involvement.
Keyes left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry and her impact is still felt today.
