Janet Leigh

Janet Leigh

The Golden Girl of Hollywood

Janet Leigh, born became one of Hollywood’s most iconic actresses. Discovered by actress Norma Shearer, Leigh signed with MGM, debuting in The Romance of Rosy Ridge (1947).

She gained fame in films like Little Women (1949) and Touch of Evil (1958). Her most memorable role came in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (1960), earning her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination.

She was married four times, notably to actor Tony Curtis.

Related

Touch of Evil - 1958

Psycho - 1960

Janet Leigh (1927 – 2004)

Biography and Movie Career

Janet Leigh, born Jeanette Helen Morrison on July 6, 1927, in Merced, California, was one of Hollywood's most admired actresses, famous for her performances in a wide range of genres. Her legacy is particularly remembered for her role in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (1960), one of cinema’s most iconic horror films. Leigh was not just a successful actress but also a devoted mother, a philanthropist, and a multi-faceted woman with a deep love for life, family, and her craft.

Early Life and Family Background

Janet Leigh was the only child of Frederick Robert Morrison, who worked for the government, and Helen Lita Morrison. She had a difficult childhood, moving frequently due to her father’s changing jobs. Despite the constant moves, Leigh showed a natural talent for academics and developed an early interest in performing arts. She was a shy and introverted child, often finding solace in reading and listening to music.

While attending the University of the Pacific, a chance encounter with actress Norma Shearer led to her being discovered. Shearer, a former Hollywood star who had connections at MGM, saw a photograph of Leigh and recommended her to studio executives. This fortuitous discovery changed the course of her life and marked the beginning of her acting career.

Hollywood Stardom

Leigh signed a contract with MGM in 1946, and her debut film was The Romance of Rosy Ridge (1947), a wartime drama in which she starred opposite Van Johnson. She quickly gained attention for her wholesome beauty, charm, and natural screen presence. Throughout the late 1940s and 1950s, Leigh became a popular actress in Hollywood, starring in films like Little Women (1949), Holiday Affair (1949), and Angels in the Outfield (1951).

Her path to stardom was cemented when she transitioned from light-hearted roles to more serious performances, including her role in Orson Welles’ Touch of Evil (1958). However, it was her portrayal of Marion Crane in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (1960) that would forever define her career. The infamous shower scene, where her character is murdered, remains one of the most iconic and terrifying moments in cinematic history. For her role in Psycho, Leigh received a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress and an Academy Award nomination.

Personal Life and Marriages

Janet Leigh’s personal life was filled with notable relationships, the most famous being her marriage to actor Tony Curtis. Before that, Leigh had two brief marriages, the first to John Carlisle in 1942, when she was just 15. This marriage was annulled after four months. She later married Stanley Reames in 1945, but they divorced in 1949.

Her most high-profile marriage was to Tony Curtis in 1951. The couple became one of Hollywood's golden couples, and together they had two daughters, Kelly Curtis (born 1956) and Jamie Lee Curtis (born 1958). Both daughters followed in their parents' footsteps and became actresses. Janet and Tony’s marriage was often in the public eye, and while they seemed like a perfect match, the pressures of their careers led to their divorce in 1962.

After her divorce from Curtis, Leigh married Robert Brandt, a stockbroker, later in 1962. This marriage lasted until her death, and by all accounts, it was a loving and supportive relationship. Leigh valued her family deeply and cherished her role as a mother, often describing her daughters as her greatest accomplishments.

Passions Beyond Acting

Leigh’s interests extended beyond the silver screen. She was an accomplished author, writing four books: two non-fiction works, There Really Was a Hollywood (1984) and Psycho: Behind the Scenes of the Classic Thriller (1995), as well as two novels, House of Destiny (1995) and The Dream Factory (2002). Leigh's writings provided insights into Hollywood’s golden age and her personal reflections on the industry.

In addition to her writing, Leigh was passionate about philanthropy and actively supported various causes throughout her life. She worked with charities focused on children, education, and health. Leigh also remained a staunch supporter of animal rights and environmental conservation.

Later Years and Death

Janet Leigh remained active in the film industry well into the 1970s and beyond, though she eventually shifted her focus towards television and occasional film roles. She appeared in TV movies and series, including a memorable role in The Fog (1980), which starred her daughter Jamie Lee Curtis. She gracefully aged in Hollywood, always staying relevant and respected for her contributions.

In her later years, Leigh faced a number of health challenges. She was diagnosed with vasculitis, an inflammation of the blood vessels, which caused her significant pain and discomfort. Despite this, she continued to make public appearances, often attending film festivals and events where she would discuss her work, particularly her time on Psycho.

Janet Leigh passed away on October 3, 2004, at the age of 77, due to complications from vasculitis. Her death was mourned by fans and colleagues alike, and she was remembered as one of Hollywood's most iconic actresses. Leigh was laid to rest at Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles, California.

Legacy

Janet Leigh's career spanned over five decades, and she is remembered as an actress who broke through Hollywood’s rigid structures with both beauty and talent. Her role in Psycho left an indelible mark on the history of cinema, but her legacy extends far beyond that. Leigh was a trailblazer for actresses of her era, showing that women could take on complex, powerful roles in both mainstream and thriller genres.

She left behind a rich legacy not only through her films but also through her family, particularly her daughter Jamie Lee Curtis, who would go on to become a major star in her own right. Janet Leigh's life was one of artistic success, personal devotion, and a quiet strength that endeared her to generations of fans.

Janet Leigh on the Iconic Shower Scene from Psycho

Versatile Acting Style of Janet Leigh

Janet Leigh’s acting style was characterized by a combination of natural charm, emotional depth, and remarkable versatility. Her ability to transition across genres—from romantic comedies to film noir and psychological thrillers—set her apart as an actress capable of engaging a broad spectrum of audiences. Leigh embodied a classic Hollywood persona, but she infused it with subtlety and complexity, allowing her to stand out in an industry that often typecast female stars.

Natural Beauty and Relatability

Leigh’s screen presence was luminous and approachable. She had a classic, All-American beauty that made her relatable to audiences, but she never relied solely on her looks. In films like Holiday Affair (1949) and The Perfect Furlough (1959), Leigh played women who were bright, witty, and endearing. Her performances in romantic comedies often displayed her warmth and humor. She conveyed an air of everyday charm, the "girl next door" type, which made her relatable to both men and women. In these roles, her acting was light and natural, emphasizing her spontaneity and joyful energy.

Emotional Depth and Vulnerability

In dramatic roles, Leigh demonstrated an ability to tap into emotional vulnerability. She could portray characters dealing with inner turmoil and complex emotions, yet still express them in a subtle, controlled manner. Her performance in Psycho (1960) as Marion Crane exemplifies this aspect of her craft. Leigh plays a woman on the edge of a moral decision, torn between a desire to start over and the consequences of her actions. Her nuanced portrayal of fear, guilt, and desperation was masterful, especially in the way she used silence, body language, and facial expressions to communicate inner conflict.

What made Leigh's acting particularly compelling in Psycho was her ability to show transformation over a short span of time. From the moment Marion steals the money, to her growing anxiety as she flees town, to her nervous interactions with Norman Bates, Leigh subtly shifts her character’s emotional state without ever losing the audience’s empathy. The infamous shower scene, while brief, is iconic partly because of her visceral portrayal of terror and helplessness, adding layers of tragedy to her character’s fate.

Strength and Independence

Leigh often played women who were more than just romantic interests. She portrayed strong, independent characters who could stand on their own within a male-dominated narrative. In Touch of Evil (1958), her role as Susan Vargas is notable for how she balances vulnerability with resilience. Her character is put in harrowing situations but remains defiant and resourceful. In The Manchurian Candidate (1962), Leigh plays a mysterious love interest who provides a sense of stability and confidence to Frank Sinatra’s troubled war veteran, though her role is laden with ambiguity. Leigh could exude strength and intelligence while still showing emotional depth, allowing her characters to have agency within their respective plots.

Versatility Across Genres

Leigh’s ability to perform in various genres was another hallmark of her style. She moved seamlessly from musicals, like Bye Bye Birdie (1963), to thrillers like Psycho, to historical epics like The Vikings (1958). She adapted her style to the tone of each film without ever compromising her authenticity. In musicals and romantic comedies, Leigh was playful and lighthearted, her dialogue quick and charming, whereas in darker roles, she adopted a more intense, controlled delivery. Her ability to shift between genres reflected her broader understanding of narrative tone and pacing.

Subtlety and Restraint

What truly set Leigh apart from many of her contemporaries was her subtle, restrained approach to acting. She never overplayed her roles or indulged in excessive dramatization. Her strength lay in her ability to communicate through small, quiet moments: a fleeting glance, a slight change in her tone, or a hesitant movement. In film noir and thrillers, this restraint was especially effective. Leigh’s use of understatement gave her performances a sense of realism and sophistication that allowed her characters to feel layered and believable.

Collaborative Spirit

Leigh was also known for her willingness to collaborate and adapt to the needs of her directors and co-stars. Directors like Alfred Hitchcock and Orson Welles, both known for their exacting standards, praised her professionalism and ability to take direction without losing her own interpretation of a character. Leigh approached each role with humility, often focusing on how best to serve the story rather than on self-promotion or ego. This collaborative spirit made her a beloved figure in the industry and contributed to her enduring reputation as a versatile and dedicated actress.

Conclusion

Janet Leigh's acting style was marked by its quiet strength, emotional depth, and versatility. She could portray innocence, sensuality, vulnerability, and resolve with equal skill, crafting characters that were multidimensional and engaging. Whether playing a doomed secretary in a psychological thriller or a resilient wife in a crime drama, Leigh brought a sense of realism and humanity to her roles. Her nuanced performances allowed her to stand out during Hollywood's golden era, making her one of the most respected and admired actresses of her time.

Janet Leigh Measurements

Janet Leigh's physical measurements were often reported as follows during her career:

• Height: 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm)
• Weight: Approximately 118 pounds (54 kg)
• Bust-Waist-Hips: 36-23-35 inches (91-58-89 cm)
• Dress Size: 4 (US)
• Shoe Size: 7 (US)

These measurements reflect the idealized standards of beauty during the Golden Age of Hollywood, where actresses were often marketed based on their physical appeal as much as their talent.

Personal Quotes from Janet Leigh

On Psycho and its impact:

"I never realized the effect the shower scene had on people until I traveled around the world. Everybody asked me about it, and I thought, 'Well, it’s just a movie scene.'"

Reflecting on how her role in Psycho became a cultural touchstone, especially the infamous shower scene.

"The role brought me much fame, but it also cost me an awful lot of showers!"

Leigh humorously acknowledging that after Psycho, many people were afraid of taking showers.

"I’ve been in so many of those films you could almost call me a scream queen."

On her roles in thriller and horror films, including Psycho and The Fog.

On her career and acting:

"I don’t take the movies seriously, and anyone who does is in for a headache."

Leigh often maintained that acting was a job she enjoyed, but she didn’t allow it to consume her life.

"I don’t want to be remembered for one thing. I’d like to be remembered for a lot of different things."

Leigh expressing her desire to be recognized for her versatility as an actress, beyond her iconic role in Psycho.

"It was an accident that started my career, and that was all to Norma Shearer."

Reflecting on her Hollywood discovery, attributing it to actress Norma Shearer, who had spotted her photo and recommended her to MGM.

On her personal life:

"Family is the most important thing in the world. It’s what grounds you and what keeps you steady."

Leigh often spoke about how much she valued her family, especially her daughters Kelly and Jamie Lee Curtis.

"I always say, I never worked a day in my life. I love what I do. I’ve been so lucky. Acting isn’t work; it’s fun."

Reflecting on her passion for acting and how fortunate she felt to have had a successful career doing something she loved.

On love and relationships:

"Love is really everything. It's what makes the world go 'round. It's what gives life meaning."

Her reflections on the importance of love, whether romantic or familial, in giving life purpose.

On life:

"Everything that happens to you, whether it’s sad or happy, is a learning experience."

Leigh’s perspective on life’s ups and downs, seeing them all as opportunities for growth and wisdom.

What Others Said about Janet Leigh

Alfred Hitchcock (Director of Psycho)

"She had an enormous amount of charm and vulnerability, which is why I cast her in Psycho. She brought a great deal of sympathy to the role, and her portrayal of Marion Crane is what makes the audience feel a genuine sense of loss when she dies early in the film."

Hitchcock praised Leigh's ability to make Marion Crane both relatable and emotionally complex, essential to the effectiveness of Psycho’s shock value.

Jamie Lee Curtis (Daughter and Actress)

"My mother was the most grounded person I ever met. She never let the Hollywood hype affect who she really was. She was a mother first and a movie star second."

Jamie Lee Curtis often spoke about her mother’s down-to-earth personality and the strong family values she held despite being a major Hollywood star.

Tony Curtis (Ex-husband and Actor)

"Janet was everything to me at one time. We had an incredible love story that captured the world’s attention. But beyond that, she was a wonderful person—thoughtful, generous, and always caring."

Tony Curtis reflected fondly on their relationship, acknowledging the deep love they shared during their marriage, despite its eventual breakdown.

Charlton Heston (Co-star in Touch of Evil)

"Janet was a joy to work with. She was professional, focused, and always approached her craft with seriousness but never took herself too seriously."

Heston appreciated her professionalism and commitment on set, while also recognizing her warm, easygoing demeanor.

John Carpenter (Director of The Fog)

"Janet had a timeless quality about her. Even in The Fog, you could see that incredible presence that made her a star in the 1950s still shining brightly."

Carpenter acknowledged her enduring screen presence, noting how her acting abilities and charisma remained strong well into her later years.

Leonard Maltin (Film Critic and Historian)

"Janet Leigh was one of those rare actresses who could excel in both lighthearted and serious roles. Her range was impressive, and she could convey both vulnerability and strength with such natural grace."

Maltin praised her versatility as an actress, able to move between different genres while maintaining her authenticity on screen.

Robert Brandt (Husband)

"Janet was as beautiful on the inside as she was on the outside. She had a kind heart, and she was truly devoted to her family and friends. Hollywood never changed her."

Leigh’s husband of over 40 years admired her for remaining grounded and maintaining her genuine nature despite her fame.

Kelly Curtis (Daughter and Actress)

"She was everything you would hope a mother could be—loving, supportive, and inspiring. She taught us that kindness and integrity were more important than fame."

Kelly Curtis reflected on her mother’s values and the impact Leigh had on her daughters' lives, emphasizing her role as a mother over her stardom.

Tony Curtis (About her talent)

"Janet had this way of lighting up a scene without saying much. Her presence alone was enough to captivate an audience. She was a true actress, not just a pretty face."

Curtis spoke highly of Leigh's natural screen presence and her ability to command attention, even in subtle moments.

Norma Shearer (Actress and Mentor)

"I saw something special in Janet from the moment I first saw her picture. There was a grace and purity about her that was rare."

Norma Shearer, who helped discover Leigh, spoke about her immediate impression of Leigh’s star potential.

Awards and Recognition

Janet Leigh received numerous awards and recognition throughout her illustrious career, both for her acting talents and her contributions to the entertainment industry.

Academy Awards (Oscars)

• Nomination:

Best Supporting Actress (Psycho, 1960)
Leigh received an Academy Award nomination for her role as Marion Crane in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho. Her portrayal of the ill-fated secretary in this iconic thriller earned her critical acclaim.

Golden Globe Awards

• Winner:

Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture (Psycho, 1960)
Janet Leigh won the Golden Globe for her performance in Psycho, recognizing her ability to convey both vulnerability and strength in one of her most memorable roles.

• Nomination:

Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Comedy or Musical (Bye Bye Birdie, 1963)
Her role as Rosie DeLeon in the musical comedy Bye Bye Birdie earned her a nomination in this category, showcasing her versatility in transitioning from dramatic thrillers to light-hearted musicals.

Laurel Awards

• Winner:

Top Female Supporting Performance (Psycho, 1960)
The Laurel Awards were popular with film exhibitors, and Leigh’s performance in Psycho earned her top honors, highlighting her popularity and the impact of her role.

• Nomination:

Top Female Star
Throughout her career, Janet Leigh was frequently recognized as one of the top female stars by the Laurel Awards, reflecting her enduring popularity with audiences.

BAFTA Awards

• Nomination:

Best Foreign Actress (Psycho, 1961)
Leigh was nominated for the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) award for her role in Psycho, further highlighting her global recognition for the part.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

• Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
  In 1960, Janet Leigh was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 1777 Vine Street in recognition of her contributions to the film industry. This is a permanent tribute to her long-standing influence in Hollywood.

Golden Apple Awards

• Winner:

Most Cooperative Actress (1954)
The Golden Apple Awards recognized actors and actresses for their professionalism and cooperation with the press. Leigh's reputation as a cooperative and easygoing actress was acknowledged with this award.

Lifetime Achievement and Special Honors

• 2000: American Veteran’s Committee Award
  Leigh was honored for her humanitarian efforts, particularly in supporting veterans and other charitable causes. She was celebrated for her work off-screen, showing her dedication to philanthropy.
• 2003: Cinecon Career Achievement Award
  This award recognized Leigh’s career achievements, celebrating her contributions to film over the span of more than five decades.
• 1998: Golden Boot Award
  Leigh received this award for her work in Western films. Though her roles in Westerns were fewer compared to other genres, her impact on the genre was acknowledged with this special recognition.

Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films (Saturn Award)

• Nomination:

Best Supporting Actress (Halloween H20: 20 Years Later, 1998)
In the horror film Halloween H20, where she made a cameo alongside her daughter Jamie Lee Curtis, Leigh was nominated for a Saturn Award by the Academy of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror Films.

Retrospective and Lifetime Recognition

• Legacy Awards:

After her passing in 2004, various retrospectives of Leigh’s career led to posthumous recognition, including tributes at major film festivals and institutions such as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the Turner Classic Movies (TCM) network.

Other Recognition

• Honorary Awards from Film Festivals:

Over the years, Leigh received honorary awards from film festivals around the world for her contributions to cinema, especially her work in classic films like Psycho and Touch of Evil.

Movies Starring Janet Leigh

1947:

• The Romance of Rosy Ridge
  Leigh's debut film. A romantic drama set in the aftermath of the American Civil War, where a stranger helps a divided family heal their wounds.

1948:

• If Winter Comes
  A drama about an unhappy marriage, featuring Leigh as Nona Tybar, a supportive character in a small English village.
• Hills of Home
  Leigh plays a Scottish lass in this heartwarming family drama about a doctor and his loyal dog.
• Act of Violence
  A post-WWII film noir where Leigh plays the supportive wife of a war veteran haunted by a former soldier seeking revenge.

1949:

• The Doctor and the Girl
  A family drama where Leigh plays a young woman caught in a complicated relationship with a doctor trying to rebel against his wealthy family.
• Words and Music
  A biographical musical about songwriters Rodgers and Hart, with Leigh in a supporting role.
• Holiday Affair
  A romantic comedy where Leigh plays a war widow who finds herself torn between a boring but stable suitor and a charming department store clerk.
• That Forsyte Woman
  A historical drama based on the Forsyte novels. Leigh plays the beautiful but tragic Irene Forsyte in a love triangle.

1949:

• Little Women
  Leigh stars as Meg March in this adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel about four sisters growing up during the American Civil War.

1950:

• The Big Hangover
  Leigh stars in this comedy about a man suffering from a unique hangover-like condition whenever he drinks alcohol.
• Two Tickets to Broadway
  A musical comedy where Leigh plays a small-town girl trying to make it big in New York City.

1951:

• Strictly Dishonorable
  A romantic comedy where Leigh's character falls for a charming but morally ambiguous Italian opera singer.
• It's a Big Country
  An anthology film where Leigh features in one of several vignettes about American life and cultural diversity.
• Angels in the Outfield
  A family-friendly baseball comedy about a down-on-his-luck manager guided by the voices of angels.
• A Streetcar Named Desire (Test footage)
  Leigh filmed screen tests for the role of Blanche DuBois in this iconic Tennessee Williams adaptation, though the role ultimately went to Vivien Leigh.

1952:

• Scaramouche
  A historical swashbuckler set during the French Revolution, where Leigh plays a beautiful noblewoman who gets involved in a duel between her lover and his enemy.
• Just This Once
  A romantic comedy where a free-spending playboy learns some valuable lessons about financial responsibility from a smart and savvy legal aide.

1953:

• Confidentially Connie
  Leigh stars in this lighthearted comedy about a college professor’s attempts to increase his salary to support his growing family.
• Houdini
  Leigh plays the wife of famous illusionist Harry Houdini (Tony Curtis), in this biographical drama exploring his life and death-defying stunts.

1954:

• Rogue Cop
  A gritty crime drama where Leigh plays the love interest of a morally conflicted police officer in a corrupt city.
• Living It Up
  A musical comedy where Leigh stars opposite Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, about a man mistakenly diagnosed with a terminal illness.

1955:

• Pete Kelly's Blues
  A jazz film noir set in the 1920s Prohibition era, where Leigh plays a troubled nightclub singer.
• My Sister Eileen
  A musical comedy about two sisters from Ohio who move to New York City in hopes of finding success in the big city.

1956:

• Safari
  A British adventure film where Leigh plays an American woman who gets caught up in a violent revolt while on safari in Kenya.

1957:

• Jet Pilot
  A Cold War drama where Leigh plays a Russian pilot who defects to the U.S. but may be hiding her true intentions.
• The Vikings
  An epic historical film where Leigh plays a Welsh princess caught in a brutal rivalry between two Viking brothers.

1958:

• Touch of Evil
  Directed by Orson Welles, this film noir sees Leigh as the wife of a Mexican drug enforcement official who becomes ensnared in a violent web of corruption on the U.S.-Mexico border.

1959:

• The Perfect Furlough
  A romantic comedy where Leigh plays an Army psychologist overseeing a publicity stunt where one lucky soldier gets a date with a Hollywood star.

1960:

• Psycho
  Leigh plays Marion Crane, a secretary who steals $40,000 and flees, only to encounter a terrifying fate at the Bates Motel. Her role earned her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination.

1962:

• The Manchurian Candidate
  A political thriller about brainwashing and political conspiracy, Leigh plays a mysterious woman who falls in love with a war veteran (Frank Sinatra).

1963:

• Bye Bye Birdie
  A popular musical comedy about a rock 'n' roll star drafted into the army, Leigh plays Rosie, the long-suffering girlfriend of the star's manager.

1965:

• Wives and Lovers
  A romantic comedy about the complexities of marriage, Leigh stars as the wife of a man whose newfound success as a novelist leads to jealousy and temptation.

1966:

• Harper
  A detective mystery where Leigh plays the ex-wife of private investigator Lew Harper, embroiled in a case involving a missing millionaire.

1969:

• Hello Down There
  A quirky family film about an inventor who moves his family to an experimental underwater home.

1972:

• One is a Lonely Number
  Leigh has a supporting role in this drama about a woman rebuilding her life after her husband leaves her.

1975:

• Columbo: Forgotten Lady (TV Movie)
  Leigh stars as a former movie star involved in a murder mystery in this popular television series.

1980:

• The Fog
  Leigh co-stars with her daughter, Jamie Lee Curtis, in this supernatural horror film directed by John Carpenter. The film is about a mysterious fog that brings vengeful ghosts to a small coastal town.

1998:

• Halloween H20: 20 Years Later
  A horror sequel where Leigh makes a cameo appearance alongside her daughter Jamie Lee Curtis, reprising the Halloween series.