Maureen O'Hara

Maureen O’Hara

The Queen of Technicolor

Maureen O'Hara's career spanned over six decades, during which she became known for her powerful presence, acting talent, and distinctive fiery hair. She was adept at playing strong, passionate women and her on-screen partnerships, particularly with John Wayne, were highly acclaimed.

Beyond her acting career, O'Hara was also a talented singer, and she published a memoir, "'Tis Herself," in 2004, which provides an insightful look into her life and career in Hollywood.

Maureen FitzSimons was born on August 17, 1920, in Ranelagh, Dublin, Ireland, into a close-knit family with a love for the arts. Her mother was a well-regarded contralto, her father owned a business, and her siblings were also inclined towards the creative and performing arts. From a young age, Maureen showed a passion for acting, enrolling in the Abbey Theatre School in Dublin to hone her craft. Her striking beauty, coupled with her innate talent, soon caught the attention of filmmakers.

Path Towards Success

Maureen's path to stardom began when she was discovered by actor Charles Laughton. Impressed by her screen test, Laughton helped her secure a contract with RKO Pictures, and it was he who suggested she change her last name to O'Hara. Her early Hollywood years were marked by significant roles that showcased her versatility, from family dramas to adventure films. Her breakout role in "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" (1939) set the stage for a career portraying strong, passionate women.

Hollywood Stardom

O'Hara's collaboration with director John Ford and actor John Wayne was particularly fruitful, leading to some of her most memorable performances in films like "How Green Was My Valley," "Rio Grande," "The Quiet Man," and "The Wings of Eagles." These films not only highlighted her acting prowess but also her ability to hold her own alongside Hollywood's leading men, earning her the nickname "The Queen of Technicolor" for how her red hair and green eyes radiated on screen.

Personal Life and Marriages

Maureen's personal life was as eventful as her screen life. She married three times, first to George H. Brown, a film producer, though the marriage was annulled. Her second husband was film director Will Price, with whom she had her only child, Bronwyn. After a challenging marriage, they divorced in 1953. Her third and happiest marriage was to Charles F. Blair, Jr., a renowned aviator and Brigadier General in the Air Force Reserve. Blair's death in a plane crash in 1978 was a devastating blow to O'Hara.

Passions Beyond the Screen

O'Hara was not just a film star; she was also passionate about aviation, becoming the first woman to head a scheduled commercial airline when she took over Antilles Air Boats after her husband's death. Additionally, she was a talented singer, although she seldom showcased this talent in her films.

Final Years and Legacy

Maureen O'Hara spent her later years advocating for privacy rights and contributing to charitable causes. She continued to attend film festivals and events, celebrating her legacy until well into her 90s.

Death and Cause

Maureen O'Hara passed away in her sleep on October 24, 2015, at her home in Boise, Idaho, at the age of 95. The cause of death was reported as natural causes. Her passing marked the end of an era for Hollywood's Golden Age, but her legacy lives on through her films and the vibrant life she led both on and off the screen.

Maureen O'Hara sings to John Wayne:

1930s

• "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" (1939): In this adaptation of Victor Hugo's novel, O'Hara plays Esmeralda, a compassionate gypsy who befriends Quasimodo, the deformed bell ringer of Notre Dame Cathedral.
   

1940s

• "How Green Was My Valley" (1941): Directed by John Ford, this film about a Welsh mining family features O'Hara as Angharad, a woman torn between her love for a preacher and her loyalty to her family.
• "This Land Is Mine" (1943): O'Hara stars in this World War II drama about a timid schoolteacher (played by Charles Laughton) in an occupied European country who learns to fight for his principles.
• "Miracle on 34th Street" (1947): O'Hara plays Doris Walker, a no-nonsense Macy's executive who learns to believe in the magic of Christmas, thanks to the real-life Santa Claus.
   

1950s

• "Rio Grande" (1950): In this John Ford Western, O'Hara reunites with John Wayne, playing his estranged wife. Their troubled marriage comes to a head against the backdrop of the Indian Wars.
• "The Quiet Man" (1952): Perhaps her most iconic role, O'Hara plays Mary Kate Danaher, a fiery Irishwoman who captures the heart of Sean Thornton (John Wayne), an American returning to his ancestral home in Ireland.
• "Our Man in Havana" (1959): In this spy comedy, O'Hara plays Beatrice Severn, a British secret service assistant, in a plot revolving around a vacuum cleaner salesman turned reluctant spy in pre-revolutionary Cuba.
   

1960s

• "The Parent Trap" (1961): O'Hara stars as Maggie McKendrick, a mother of identical twins (both played by Hayley Mills) who scheme to reunite their divorced parents.
• "McLintock!" (1963): A comedic Western, featuring O'Hara as Katherine McLintock, the estranged wife of wealthy cattle baron G.W. McLintock (John Wayne), who battles her husband with wit and panache.
• "The Rare Breed" (1966): In this Western, O'Hara plays Martha Price, a widow who travels to Texas with her daughter and a prized bull, facing adventure and romance.
   

1970s and Beyond

• "Big Jake" (1971): Another collaboration with John Wayne, O'Hara plays Martha McCandles, whose grandson is kidnapped by outlaws, prompting a rescue mission led by her estranged husband, Big Jake.

Maureen O'Hara's acting style is often characterized by her strong on-screen presence, versatility, and natural charm, which allowed her to shine in a wide range of roles, from spirited heroines in adventure films to warm and empathetic characters in family dramas. Her vibrant red hair, striking green eyes, and undeniable beauty certainly added to her screen presence, but it was her talent and ability to convey deep emotions with subtlety and strength that truly defined her performances.

O'Hara was adept at playing fiercely independent and spirited women, often portraying characters that were ahead of their time in terms of their independence and resilience. She had a knack for bringing a sense of authenticity and relatability to these roles, making her characters feel real and grounded despite the often dramatic or romanticized settings of her films. Her performances were marked by a balance of grace and tenacity, embodying characters that were both strong-willed and deeply compassionate.

In her collaborations with director John Ford and actor John Wayne, particularly in films like "The Quiet Man" and "Rio Grande," O'Hara's acting style showcased her ability to hold her own against powerful male leads, delivering performances that were both dynamic and nuanced. Her chemistry with her co-stars, especially Wayne, was palpable, adding depth to their on-screen relationships and making their films together memorable.

O'Hara's versatility as an actress was also evident in her ability to transition seamlessly between genres. In comedies like "The Parent Trap," she displayed impeccable timing and a flair for light-hearted humor, while in dramas like "How Green Was My Valley," she conveyed profound emotional depth and sensitivity. Her performance in "Miracle on 34th Street" as a pragmatic and skeptical mother who rediscovers the magic of Christmas remains a testament to her ability to capture the complexities of her characters, blending cynicism with warmth in a way that resonated with audiences.

Throughout her career, O'Hara remained true to her identity, often playing roles that reflected her own strong personality and values. She was not just the quintessential "fiery redhead" but also an actress capable of portraying a wide spectrum of human experience with authenticity, strength, and a touch of grace. Her legacy in the film industry is not only that of a leading lady in classic cinema but also as a pioneering figure who represented strong, independent women on screen.

On her on-screen persona and real-life character: "I was the only leading lady big enough and tough enough for John Wayne." This quote reflects her strong on-screen presence and the formidable characters she often portrayed, as well as her real-life strength and resilience.
 

On acting and authenticity: "I have always believed that acting is not about acting. It's about being." O'Hara's approach to her craft was rooted in authenticity and bringing genuine emotion and presence to her roles, rather than merely performing.
 

Regarding her career choices: "I made John Wayne sexy. I take credit for that." This humorous and bold statement speaks to her confidence and the undeniable chemistry she shared with Wayne, contributing to the success and appeal of their films together.
 

On life philosophy: "Being an Irishwoman means many things to me. An Irishwoman is strong and feisty. She has guts and stands up for what she believes in. She believes she is the best at whatever she does and has no doubt about it." This quote reflects O'Hara's pride in her Irish heritage and her strong, independent spirit.
 

On Hollywood's Golden Age: "Hollywood is a place where they place you under contract instead of under observation." This witticism captures O'Hara's perspective on the often surreal and challenging nature of Hollywood, highlighting her ability to maintain a sense of humor about the industry.
 

Reflecting on her legacy: "I've always been a tough Irish lass. I wasn't going to let men push me around." O'Hara's words encapsulate her determination and independence, both in her career and personal life, traits that endeared her to fans and colleagues alike.
 

On resilience and adversity: "God has a plan for all of us, but He expects us to do our share of the work." This quote showcases her faith and belief in the combination of divine providence and personal responsibility in shaping one's destiny.

The chemistry between Maureen O'Hara and John Wayne is legendary in the annals of Hollywood history, making them one of the most iconic screen couples of all time. Their on-screen partnership is celebrated not only for the dynamic performances and compelling narratives they brought to life but also for the genuine affection and respect they had for each other off-screen. This real-life rapport translated into a powerful and convincing dynamic on camera, characterized by a blend of fiery exchanges, tender moments, and undeniable mutual respect.

Their Chemistry

• Mutual Respect: Both O'Hara and Wayne were professionals who deeply respected each other's craft. O'Hara often spoke of Wayne with great affection and admiration, acknowledging his presence not just as a co-star but as a friend. This mutual respect allowed them to challenge each other and bring out the best in their performances.
• Combative yet Complementary: On screen, their characters often started off on a combative footing, with O'Hara's fiery independence clashing with Wayne's rugged assertiveness. This tension, however, was a perfect setup for the deep affection and understanding that would develop between their characters, mirroring the depth of their off-screen friendship.
• Authenticity: Both actors brought an authenticity to their roles that made their characters' relationships feel real. They shared a natural chemistry that didn't need to be forced or fabricated, allowing audiences to believe in their characters' love stories genuinely.

Their Best Movies Together:

• "The Quiet Man" (1952): Directed by John Ford, this film is perhaps the most celebrated of their collaborations. Set in Ireland, it tells the story of Sean Thornton (Wayne), an American boxer who returns to his ancestral home in Ireland, where he falls in love with Mary Kate Danaher (O'Hara). The film is renowned for its lush cinematography, its blend of drama and comedy, and the palpable chemistry between the leads. The fiery relationship between Mary Kate and Sean, combined with the beautiful Irish setting, makes this film a timeless classic.
   
• "Rio Grande" (1950): Another collaboration with director John Ford, "Rio Grande" is a Western that explores themes of duty, family, and reconciliation. Wayne plays Lt. Col. Kirby Yorke, whose estranged wife (O'Hara) and son arrive at his post. The film beautifully showcases the complexity of their relationship, with O'Hara and Wayne delivering performances that reflect the characters' underlying love and respect for each other amidst personal and external conflicts.
   
• "McLintock!" (1963): This Western comedy features Wayne as wealthy rancher G.W. McLintock and O'Hara as his estranged wife, Katherine. The film is known for its humorous take on the battle of the sexes, with Katherine and G.W.'s fiery exchanges and comedic battles underscoring their enduring attraction and love. The chemistry between O'Hara and Wayne shines through in their banter and physical comedy, making it a beloved film among fans.
   
• "The Wings of Eagles" (1957): This biographical war film directed by John Ford features Wayne as Frank "Spig" Wead, a pioneering aviator and screenwriter, with O'Hara playing his wife, Minnie Wead. Their on-screen relationship in this film showcases a more nuanced and tender dynamic, highlighting their ability to portray deep emotional connections and support through adversity.

Academy Awards

• Honorary Award (2014): Maureen O'Hara received an Honorary Oscar at the Governors Awards, acknowledging her as one of Hollywood's brightest stars. This award was in recognition of her long and illustrious career, marking her significant contributions to the classic era of cinema. The Academy celebrated her as an indomitable spirit, whose luminous screen presence inspired generations.
   

Other Honors and Recognitions

• Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (1960): Maureen O'Hara was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to the motion picture industry, located at 7004 Hollywood Boulevard.
• Irish America Hall of Fame: O'Hara was inducted into the Irish America Hall of Fame, celebrating her as a proud representative of Irish heritage in Hollywood and her contributions to promoting Irish culture and heritage internationally.
   

Personal and Career Achievement Awards

Throughout her career and life, Maureen O'Hara received numerous awards and recognitions from film festivals, cultural organizations, and industry groups for her lifetime achievements in cinema. These awards often highlighted her role as a pioneering woman in Hollywood, her memorable performances in classic films, and her contribution to the arts and entertainment industry.

1938: Kicking the Moon Around, My Irish Molly

1939: Jamaica Inn, The Hunchback of Notre Dame

1940: A Bill of Divorcement, Dance, Girl, Dance

1941: They Met in Argentina, How Green Was My Valley

1942: To the Shores of Tripoli, Ten Gentlemen from West Point, The Black Swan

1943: Immortal Sergeant, This Land Is Mine, The Fallen Sparrow

1944: Buffalo Bill

1945: The Spanish Main

1946: Sentimental Journey, Do You Love Me

1947: Sinbad the Sailor, The Homestretch, Miracle on 34th Street, The Foxes of Harrow

1948: Sitting Pretty

1949: A Woman's Secret, Father Was a Fullback

1950: Comanche Territory, Tripoli, Rio Grande

1951: Flame of Araby

1952: At Sword's Point, The Quiet Man, Kangaroo

1953: The Redhead from Wyoming, War Arrow

1954: Malaga

1955: The Long Gray Line, The Magnificent Matador, Lady Godiva of Coventry

1957: The Wings of Eagles

1959: Our Man in Havana

1961: The Deadly Companions, The Parent Trap

1962: Mr. Hobbs Takes a Vacation

1963: Spencer's Mountain, McLintock!

1965: The Battle of the Villa Fiorita

1966: The Rare Breed

1970: How Do I Love Thee?

1971: Big Jake

1973: The Red Pony (TV movie)

1995: The Christmas Box (TV movie)

1998: Cab to Canada (TV movie)

2000: The Last Dance (TV movie)