Candice Bergen

Candice Patricia Bergen was born on May 9, 1946, in Beverly Hills, California, USA. She was the daughter of Frances Bergen and famous ventriloquist Edgar Bergen. Her father was one of the most well-known ventriloquists in the United States, which provided her with a unique and colorful upbringing in the entertainment world. Despite initially showing reluctance to enter the world of acting, she would go on to have a successful career.

Candice Bergen made her film debut in 1966 in the movie 'The Group', which was directed by Sidney Lumet. This film was based on the 1963 novel by Mary McCarthy and revolved around the experiences of eight young women from Vassar College starting in 1933. Bergen played the role of Lakey Eastlake, a beautiful socialite, which helped establish her as a capable actress in Hollywood during a time when many women faced significant challenges in the industry.

In 1979, Candice Bergen received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in the film 'Starting Over'. The film, directed by Alan J. Pakula, is a romantic comedy about a man who is struggling readjusting to single life after divorce. Bergen played the ex-wife of Burt Reynolds' character. Her performance was critically acclaimed, showcasing her comedic talent and enhancing her reputation in Hollywood.

Candice Bergen starred as the title character in the television series 'Murphy Brown' which premiered on November 14, 1988. The show followed fictional investigative journalist and news anchor Murphy Brown, marking Bergen's transition from film to a successful television career. 'Murphy Brown' became a cultural touchstone of the era, tackling important social issues and bringing Bergen critical acclaim and multiple awards, including five Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actress.

Candice Bergen won her first Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series on September 17, 1989, for her role in 'Murphy Brown'. This win was a significant achievement, marking her transition into television as not just a success, but an exemplary career milestone. The series and her role were praised for their wit and reflection on topical issues, contributing to its enduring legacy in American television history.

On May 19, 1992, Candice Bergen delivered a memorable and humorous speech at the White House Correspondents' Dinner while she was still starring in 'Murphy Brown'. During her speech, she made light of Vice President Dan Quayle's criticism of her character for being a single mother, which had ignited a public debate on family values and was widely covered in the media. Her address was commended for its wit and sharp commentary on politics and media.

Candice Bergen hosted 'Saturday Night Live' for the fifth time on March 20, 1994, entering the show's elite 'Five-Timers Club'. Bergen's recurring appearances were celebrated for her comedic range and willingness to parody her public persona. Her rapport with the regular cast and willingness to engage in skits on contemporary topics made her episodes memorable and enduring among fans of the show and live television comedy.

Candice Bergen published her second memoir, 'A Fine Romance', on April 1, 2006. The memoir detailed her personal experiences in Hollywood, her marriages, particularly to French film director Louis Malle, and her growth as a person and actress. It also provided an inside look into her celebrated role on 'Murphy Brown' and how it impacted her life. The book was well-received for its candidness and depth of insight into her life and career.

On November 26, 2015, Candice Bergen made a guest appearance on 'The Muppets', a modern reboot of the classic variety show featuring the beloved Muppet characters. Her appearance was part of a Thanksgiving special where she engaged with iconic characters like Kermit and Miss Piggy. Bergen's presence on the show was a nod to her comedic legacy and her ability to charm audiences across different formats and generations.

On September 27, 2018, the revival of 'Murphy Brown' premiered on CBS, bringing Candice Bergen back in her iconic role as Murphy Brown. The revival aimed to address contemporary political and social issues, echoing the original series' knack for commentary. Bergen reprised her role with the same charisma and sharp wit that garnered critical and audience acclaim decades earlier. The revival was part of a trend of bringing back beloved shows from the past.