Goldie Hawn

Goldie Hawn was born on November 21, 1945, in Washington, D.C. She was raised in a Jewish family and developed an early interest in the performing arts. Her father was a musician and she began ballet and tap dance lessons at the age of 3. She studied drama at American University but left before graduating to pursue her career in dance and acting.

In 1969, Goldie Hawn starred in 'Cactus Flower' and her performance won her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. She played the character of Toni Simmons, a young woman caught in a love triangle. This role marked a major turning point in her career, establishing her as a prominent actress in Hollywood. Her charm and comedic timing were widely acclaimed.

Goldie Hawn showcased her talents as both a comedic and musical performer in 'The Goldie Hawn Special,' which aired in 1976 on CBS. This television special featured Hawn performing with guest stars like John Ritter and Ruth Buzzi and was noted for its mix of comedy sketches, songs, and dance routines, solidifying her status as a multifaceted entertainer.

Goldie Hawn starred in the lead role in the film 'Private Benjamin,' which was released on December 19, 1980. Hawn's performance as Judy Benjamin, a pampered young woman who joins the U.S. Army after her husband's death, was both comedic and touching, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film was a significant commercial success.

Goldie Hawn's memoir, 'A Lotus Grows in the Mud,' co-written by Wendy Holden, offers an intimate look into her personal life and career. The book was published in 2005 and reflects on her childhood, rise to fame, motherhood, and her philosophical musings on life. It was well-received for its candidness and the insightful anecdotes from her movie stardom.

The romantic comedy 'Overboard,' released in 1987, featured Goldie Hawn in the lead role opposite Kurt Russell. The film tells the story of a wealthy woman who suffers from amnesia and is tricked into believing she is the wife of a working-class carpenter. Their on-screen chemistry translated off-screen as well, as Hawn and Russell have been partners since 1983.

Goldie Hawn starred alongside Meryl Streep and Bruce Willis in the 1992 dark comedy 'Death Becomes Her,' directed by Robert Zemeckis. The movie was notable for its innovative use of computer-generated effects and Hawn's exploration of themes concerning vanity and aging. Her performance earned her critical praise in this cult classic about eternal youth and rivalry.

In 2002, Goldie Hawn founded The Hawn Foundation, a non-profit organization, with a mission to help youth develop mindfulness and empathy. The foundation's signature program, MindUP, was designed to provide children with learning tools to improve their focus, resilience, and emotional balance. This initiative reflects Hawn's commitment to children's education and mental health.

Goldie Hawn returned to the big screen in 'Snatched,' released in 2017, after a 15-year hiatus from film. She co-starred with Amy Schumer in this action-comedy about a mother-daughter vacation gone wrong. Hawn's comedic performance was praised and marked her reunion with film audiences, demonstrating her sustained appeal and talent in the comedy genre.

In an August 2023 interview with AARP, Goldie Hawn reflected on her life, career, and legacy as she approaches her eighties. She discussed her philosophies on happiness, aging gracefully, and the importance of laughter. The interview highlighted her ongoing influence in entertainment and her work with The Hawn Foundation, illustrating her enduring impact on Hollywood and beyond.