Lauren Bacall

Lauren Bacall was born as Betty Joan Perske on September 16, 1924, in the Bronx, New York City. She was the only child of Natalie Weinstein-Bacal and William Perske. Her parents were Jewish immigrants. Her mother came from Romania and her father from Poland. Unfortunately, her parents divorced when she was just five, leading her mother to change their last name to Bacal, her mother’s maiden name (which Lauren later modified to Bacall).

Bacall had a relatively modest upbringing, with her mother working as a secretary to support them. The family moved to Brooklyn after the divorce, and Bacall attended various schools, including Julia Richman High School in Manhattan. This was an all-girls high school in Greenwich Village, New York.

Formative Years

She developed an affinity for the arts early on, frequently attending shows at the local theaters.

Inspired by her experiences and driven by her ambitions, Bacall decided to pursue acting seriously. After high school, she joined the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. There she had a brief love affair with classmate Kirk Douglas. Due to her financial situation she was pushed to explore immediate earning opportunities. That is why

Bacall took up modeling and worked as a theater usher and as a fashion model for several department stores. Het modelling was successful from the start. She appeared in Vogue and even landed on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar.

Her early experiences in modeling were instrumental in propelling her into the spotlight, leading to her discovery by Nancy Keith, the wife of film director Howard Hawks. This opportunity served as her gateway into Hollywood and paved the way for her legendary debut in "To Have and Have Not" (1944). Howard Hawkes signed a 7 year contract with her on the first day they met. Both Howard Hawks and his wife Nancy groomed Lauren on her path to stardom.

Bacall’s ascent to fame began with modeling, but her true calling was acting. Her debut film, "To Have and Have Not" (1944), opposite Humphrey Bogart, brought her instant fame at the age of 19. The movie showcased her distinctive low voice and sultry looks, solidifying her as a Hollywood icon.

Her low Voice and “The Look”

That specific low voice was not a natural gift however. Howard and Nancy Hawks ordered a voice coach for her who consciously trained her voice several octaves lower. Her later husband, Humphrey Bogart, followed her in that. They didn’t know it by then but years later a voice disorder was named after them, the Bogart-Bacall syndrome, a vocal disease caused by abuse of the vocal chords.

Here you can view a short impression of her distinct low voice: https://youtu.be/JPAXwbQ2HmI?si=5ZHluwfux76tOaXu

Although Lauren Bacall was a natural beauty, even her specific look was trained. Due to nervousness she could experience shaking bouts. To repress that she trained herself to lower her chin while looking upwards. That brought some stiffness in her posture and simultaneously gave her the famous Bacal Look, known as “the look”. A win-win for her and her career.

Lauren Bacall movies and series

Lauren Bacall featured in many notable films, shaping the cinematic landscape of her time. "The Big Sleep" (1946), "Dark Passage" (1947), and "Key Largo" (1948) are the ones standing out, where she and her by then husband, Humphrey Bogart, mesmerized their devoted public. Other remarkable performances include "How to Marry a Millionaire" (1953), alongside Marilyn Monroe and Betty Grable, and "Designing Woman" (1957). Her ability to portray complex characters with depth continued into her later career with "The Mirror Has Two Faces" (1996), earning her a Golden Globe Award.

 

Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart

Lauren Bacall’s relationship with Humphrey Bogart is one of Hollywood’s most iconic love stories. Their romance ignited during the filming of "To Have and Have Not," leading to their marriage in 1945. Despite the 25-year age difference, the couple shared an intense bond and collaboration, both on and off-screen. They starred together in several films, blending their professional and personal lives seamlessly until Bogart’s death in 1957.

Lauren Bacall met Humphrey Bogart while filming her debut movie, "To Have and Have Not," in 1944. At the time, Bacall was a 19-year-old newcomer, and Bogart was a 44-year-old established star, married to his third wife, actress Mayo Methot. Despite the considerable age difference and Bogart's marital status, a strong bond quickly formed between Bacall and Bogart, eventually blossoming into a romantic relationship.

After Bogart's divorce from Methot was finalized, he and Bacall got married on May 21, 1945, at the pleasant countryside estate of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield in Lucas, Ohio. The wedding was a simple and intimate affair, attended by close friends and family.

The couple got two children, Stephen Humphrey Bogart, born in 1949, and Leslie Howard Bogart, born in 1952. Bacall and Bogart starred together in several other films, including "The Big Sleep" (1946), "Dark Passage" (1947), and "Key Largo" (1948), establishing themselves as one of Hollywood's most dynamic and admired couples..

Tragically, their blissful union was cut short when Bogart was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in 1956. Bacall remained steadfastly by his side throughout his battle with the illness, providing support and care. Humphrey Bogart passed away on January 14, 1957. His death left a profound impact on Bacall, both personally and professionally.

Bacall was devastated by Bogart's death but continued to build on her acting career, making notable appearances in film and on stage. She always spoke of Bogart with immense love and respect, reflecting on the depth of their connection and the impact of their relationship on her life.

In interviews and in her autobiography, Bacall described her marriage to Bogart as the most significant and transformative relationship of her life. She was quoted saying, “No one has ever written a romance better than we lived it.”

Lauren Bacall and Jason Robards

Lauren Bacall and Jason Robards met in the early 1960s. The two actors, both notable figures in Hollywood, shared common interests and quickly developed a deep connection. They were married on July 4, 1961. Bacall and Robards had one child together, a son named Sam Robards, born on December 16, 1961, who later became an actor himself.

Though their union was marked by mutual respect and shared passions, it was also fraught with difficulties. Robards struggled with severe alcoholism, which stressed their relationship. Bacall, having previously navigated Bogart's battle with esophageal cancer, found herself managing another set of challenges in her marriage to Robards.

The impact of Robards' drinking on their marriage was profound, and despite attempts to navigate these issues, the marriage reached an irreconcilable point. The couple ultimately divorced in 1969.

Post their separation, both Bacall and Robards continued to maintain successful careers in the film industry.

Jason Robards passed away in 2000, while Bacall lived on until 2014. Despite the trials of their relationship, both Bacall and Robards left enduring legacies in the world of film and stage, with their contributions continuing to influence and inspire subsequent generations of actors and filmmakers.

Their son, Sam Robards, upheld the family legacy in acting, appearing in various films, TV shows, and theater productions. He has been part of notable projects like "A.I. Artificial Intelligence" (2001) and "American Beauty" (1999), thereby continuing the familial contribution to the movie industry.

Children and Grandchildren

Bacall and Bogart had two children: Stephen Humphrey Bogart and Leslie Howard Bogart. After Bogart’s passing, Bacall married Jason Robards, and they had a son, Sam Robards. Bacall was a devoted mother, balancing her family life with her professional commitments meticulously. Her children went on to have their own families, providing Bacall with several grandchildren, to whom she was very close.

Personal Struggles and Triumphs

Following her tumultuous marriage with Robards, Bacall faced life as a single mother, navigating her career and personal life with resilience. Her engagement to Frank Sinatra, between her marriages, ended abruptly, adding another layer to her intricate personal history. Bacall was open about her challenges and triumphs, offering a nuanced portrayal of her life through her autobiography, "By Myself."

Political Beliefs Lauren Bacall

Lauren Bacall was a lifelong liberal and a strong supporter of the Democratic Party. She was an ardent advocate for civil rights, women's rights, and was openly anti-McCarthyism. Bacall held progressive views on issues such as race relations, equality, and social justice. She was unafraid to voice her opinions and stand up for her beliefs, often using her platform to bring attention to pressing political and social issues.

Advocacy and Activism

Bacall was active in supporting Democratic presidential candidates and was engaged in the political discourse of her time. She was known for her friendships with eminent personalities in politics, including Adlai Stevenson and Robert Kennedy. In 1947, Bacall famously appeared alongside Humphrey Bogart in Washington, D.C., in protests against the House Un-American Activities Committee’s investigations into alleged Communist influence in Hollywood, showcasing her commitment to political activism and her opposition to the McCarthyist witch hunts of the era.

Relationships with Political Figures

Bacall's interest in politics extended to her relationships with various Presidents and political figures. She was close to the Kennedy family and was a strong supporter of the Democratic Party. She had connections with several Presidents, including Harry S. Truman, who played the piano at one of her performances at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C.

Philanthropy

Beyond her political activities, Bacall was also involved in various philanthropic efforts and charitable causes. She supported organizations dedicated to addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and access to education and healthcare.

Views on Hollywood

Even within the movie business, Bacall was known for her candid views. She expressed concerns about the changes in the film industry, critiquing the shift in focus from artistic expression to commercial interests. She was vocal about her disdain for the paparazzi and the invasion of privacy faced by celebrities.

Biography of Lauren Bacall on YouTube

In this documentary you will get an intimate view of the life and career of Lauren Bacall:

 

Awards and Nominations for Lauren Bacall

Lauren Bacall’s contributions to cinema and theater earned her numerous awards and nominations, including an Academy Honorary Award and two Tony Awards. Her resilient spirit, distinctive voice, and timeless elegance positioned her as one of the leading ladies of Classic Hollywood cinema. 

Legacy and Impact

Lauren Bacall's enduring impact on cinema is marked by her unique screen presence, groundbreaking performances, and her role in reshaping the image of female stars in her era. Her ability to portray strength and vulnerability made her a role model for aspiring actresses and her enduring appeal makes her an unforgettable icon of Hollywood. Bacall’s influence extends beyond her filmography, echoing through the industry’s evolution and the memories of those who witnessed her captivating presence.

Cause of Death

Lauren Bacall passed away on August 12, 2014. She died of a stroke at her home in The Dakota, New York City, at the age of 89. Her death marked the end of an era, leaving a void in the world of cinema. Her contributions to the film industry, however, ensure that her legacy lives on, influencing and inspiring generations of actors and filmmakers.

Final Resting Place

Lauren Bacall is interred at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Glendale, California, alongside her first husband, Humphrey Bogart, symbolizing their eternal bond.

• 1944: To Have and Have Not
• 1945: Confidential Agent
• 1946: Two Guys from Milwaukee (Cameo), The Big Sleep
• 1947: Dark Passage
• 1948: Key Largo
• 1950: Young Man with a Horn, Bright Leaf
• 1953: How to Marry a Millionaire
• 1954: Woman's World
• 1955: Blood Alley, The Cobweb
• 1956: Written on the Wind
• 1957: Designing Woman
• 1958: The Gift of Love
• 1959: North West Frontier
• 1964: Shock Treatment, Sex and the Single Girl
• 1966: Harper
• 1973: Applause
• 1974: Murder on the Orient Express
• 1976: The Shootist
• 1978: Perfect Gentlemen (TV Movie)
• 1981: The Fan
• 1988: Mr. North, Appointment with Death
• 1989: Dinner at Eight (TV Movie), Tree of Hands
• 1991: A Star for Two
• 1993: The Portrait (TV Movie)
• 1994: Prêt-à-Porter
• 1996: My Fellow Americans, The Mirror Has Two Faces
• 1999: Diamonds, Too Rich: The Secret Life of Doris Duke (TV Mini-Series)
• 2003: Dogville, The Limit
• 2004: Howl's Moving Castle (English version, voice)
• 2005: Manderlay
• 2006: These Foolish Things
• 2007: The Walker
• 2008: Eve
• 2009: Scooby-Doo! and the Goblin King (voice)
• 2012: Ernest & Celestine (English version, voice), The Forger
• 2014: Trouble Is My Business (voice)

Series featuring Lauren Bacall:

• 1954: Armstrong Circle Theatre
• 1955: Producers' Showcase
• 1956: Ford Star Jubilee
• 1958: General Electric Theater
• 1959: What's My Line? (Mystery Guest)
• 1960–1963: Person to Person (2 episodes)
• 1964: Dr. Kildare
• 1968: The Hollywood Palace
• 1976: The Rockford Files
• 1979: Perfect Gentlemen
• 1980: The Rockford Files
• 1985: Magnum, P.I.
• 1993: Great Performances
• 1997: Chicago Hope
• 1998: The Animated Adventures of Tom Sawyer (voice)
• 1999: The Simpsons (voice), Madeline: Lost in Paris (voice), Too Rich: The Secret Life of Doris Duke
• 2000: The Venice Project
• 2001: These Old Broads (TV Movie)
• 2004: Dogville Confessions (Documentary)
• 2006: Firedog (voice)
• 2009: Family Guy (voice)

Brief Overview of Selected Films:

To Have and Have Not (1944):

Overview: This is Bacall's debut film, where she stars opposite Humphrey Bogart. It's a romantic war film set in Martinique during World War II, with Bacall playing the role of Marie "Slim" Browning. Her chemistry with Bogart is palpable, and the film is memorable for Bacall's line, "You know how to whistle, don't you, Steve? You just put your lips together and blow."

The Big Sleep (1946):

Overview: Another collaboration with Bogart, this film is a classic film noir, based on Raymond Chandler's 1939 novel. Bacall plays Vivian Rutledge, a femme fatale embroiled in a complex plot of mystery and romance.

How to Marry a Millionaire (1953):

Overview: Bacall stars alongside Marilyn Monroe and Betty Grable in this romantic comedy film. She plays Schatze Page, one of three models renting an upscale apartment and attempting to attract wealthy husbands.

Designing Woman (1957):

Overview: In this romantic comedy, Bacall stars opposite Gregory Peck. She portrays fashion designer Marilla Brown who marries Mike Hagen, a sportswriter, leading to a clash of lifestyles and misunderstandings.

The Mirror Has Two Faces (1996):

Overview: Bacall plays Hannah Morgan, the overbearing mother of Rose Morgan (Barbara Streisand) in this romantic drama. The film explores themes of love and self-acceptance, and Bacall’s performance earned her a Golden Globe Award.

Murder on the Orient Express (1974):

Overview: In this acclaimed mystery film, Bacall plays Mrs. Hubbard, one of the passengers on the train where the infamous murder occurs. The film, based on Agatha Christie’s novel, is known for its ensemble cast and intricate plot.

Key Largo (1948):

Overview: Bacall and Bogart star in this film noir classic, along with Edward G. Robinson. Bacall plays Nora Temple, trapped in a hotel with gangsters as a hurricane approaches, leading to tense confrontations and dramatic revelations.

Harper (1966):

Overview: In this mystery film, Bacall portrays Elaine Sampson, a wealthy woman who hires private investigator Lew Harper (Paul Newman) to find her kidnapped husband, unfolding a tale of intrigue and deception.

Dark Passage (1947):

Overview: This film reunites Bacall with Bogart in a story of an escaped convict, Vincent Parry (Bogart), and his quest to prove his innocence. Bacall plays Irene Jansen, a mysterious woman who aids him in his endeavor.