Zsa Zsa Gabor
backFull Name | Sári Gábor |
Stage Name | Zsa Zsa Gabor |
Born | February 6, 1917 |
Birthplace | Budapest, Austria-Hungary (now Hungary) |
Died | December 18, 2016 |
Buried | Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery, Los Angeles, California |
Married to | Burhan Asaf Belge (1937–1941) - Conrad Hilton (1942–1947) - George Sanders (1949–1954) - Herbert Hutner (1962–1966) - Joshua S. Cosden Jr. (1966–1967) - Jack Ryan (1975–1976) - Michael O'Hara (1976–1983) - Felipe de Alba (1983–annulled) - Frédéric Prinz von Anhalt (1986–2016) |
Children | Francesca Hilton (daughter with Conrad Hilton) |
Notable films | Moulin Rouge (1952) - Lili (1953) - Touch of Evil (1958) - Death of a Scoundrel (1956) |
Zsa Zsa Gabor
The Original Glamour Queen
Zsa Zsa Gabor (1917–2016) was a Hungarian-born actress and socialite known for her glamour, wit, and nine marriages.
After winning Miss Hungary in 1936, she moved to Hollywood, where she became famous more for her personality than her acting, though she appeared in films like Moulin Rouge (1952) and Touch of Evil (1958). She embodied old Hollywood excess, with her signature catchphrase “dahling” and her extravagant lifestyle.
Gabor became one of the first celebrities famous for being famous, frequently appearing on talk shows and in the tabloids. She was a master of self-promotion and humorously embraced her reputation for luxury and romance.
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Zsa Zsa Gabor (1917 – 2016)
Biography and Movie Career
Zsa Zsa Gabor was one of the most famous and flamboyant personalities of Hollywood’s golden age, known for her beauty, wit, and numerous marriages. Her life, both on and off the screen, was marked by glamour, controversy, and an enduring love for fame.
Early Life and Background
Born Sári Gábor on February 6, 1917, in Budapest, Hungary (then part of Austria-Hungary), Zsa Zsa was the middle daughter of Vilmos Gábor, a soldier, and Jolie Gábor, a glamorous socialite who would later become a well-known figure in her own right. She grew up in a wealthy family, and along with her sisters, Magda and Eva Gabor, enjoyed a privileged upbringing. The Gabor sisters were all destined for fame, though Zsa Zsa would arguably become the most famous of the trio.
From an early age, Zsa Zsa’s striking beauty attracted attention. In 1936, she was crowned Miss Hungary, and it was her beauty, charm, and larger-than-life personality that would pave her way to stardom. However, her time in Hungary was short-lived as the shadow of World War II loomed. She emigrated to the United States in the late 1930s, following in the footsteps of her sister, Eva, who had already established a career in Hollywood.
Entry into Hollywood and Rise to Fame
Zsa Zsa made her Hollywood debut in the early 1950s, a time when the movie industry was booming with glamorous starlets. Her first significant film role was in Lovely to Look At (1952), but it was her role in Moulin Rouge (1952) that made her a notable name in the film world. In the film, she played a vivacious Parisian nightclub hostess, a role that seemed to embody her own public persona. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, she appeared in films such as Lili (1953), Death of a Scoundrel (1956), Touch of Evil (1958), and Queen of Outer Space (1958).
Though Zsa Zsa’s acting talents were often eclipsed by her glamorous public persona, she became a staple in Hollywood. She was not considered a serious actress, but she was cast in roles that highlighted her beauty and sophistication. Over time, she became more famous for her socialite lifestyle than for her performances, leading her to become one of the first examples of a celebrity who was "famous for being famous."
The Socialite and Her Public Persona
Zsa Zsa Gabor was the epitome of Hollywood glamour, with her iconic Hungarian accent, perfectly coiffed hair, and luxurious fashion. She was known for her sharp wit and memorable one-liners, such as, "I am a marvelous housekeeper: Every time I leave a man, I keep his house." Her persona as a witty, glamorous woman who thrived on attention was solidified through her many public appearances on television talk shows, including The Tonight Show and The Merv Griffin Show.
Zsa Zsa cultivated a personal brand of charm, elegance, and scandal that made her a favorite of the tabloid press. Her outrageous statements and unapologetic love for luxury made her an iconic figure of 20th-century pop culture. She had a love of luxury, often seen dripping in jewels and wearing designer gowns, and was not shy about flaunting her wealth or her love for the finer things in life.
Marriages and Love Life
Zsa Zsa’s personal life was as flamboyant as her public persona. She was married nine times, each marriage making headlines. Her first marriage, in 1937, was to Turkish politician Burhan Asaf Belge. However, her most famous marriages were to some of the wealthiest and most prominent men of her time.
Her second husband was Conrad Hilton, founder of the Hilton Hotels empire, whom she married in 1942. The marriage lasted five years and produced her only child, Francesca Hilton. The union with Hilton was reportedly strained by his domineering personality and her independent spirit. They divorced in 1947, but Zsa Zsa later claimed that she never wanted to marry him in the first place, saying that she married him out of obligation rather than love.
In 1949, she married actor George Sanders, who shared her sharp wit and love for luxury. The couple divorced in 1954, but remained on good terms. Sanders later married Zsa Zsa’s older sister, Magda, though that marriage also ended in divorce.
Over the years, Zsa Zsa had several short-lived marriages. These included a marriage to businessman Herbert Hutner (1962–1966), oil heir Joshua S. Cosden Jr. (1966–1967), and toy designer Jack Ryan (1975–1976). In 1986, she married her ninth and final husband, Frédéric Prinz von Anhalt, a German-born socialite who claimed to have been adopted into a noble family. Despite the scandals that often surrounded her relationships, Zsa Zsa and Frédéric remained married until her death.
Scandals and Legal Troubles
Zsa Zsa was no stranger to controversy. One of the most famous incidents in her later years occurred in 1989 when she was arrested for slapping a Beverly Hills police officer during a traffic stop. The incident became a media sensation, and she was sentenced to three days in jail, which she served in 1990. She later parodied the incident in the 1991 film The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear. Throughout her life, her candidness and bold attitude made her both loved and criticized, but it also cemented her place in pop culture.
Passions and Philanthropy
Beyond her love for fame and luxury, Zsa Zsa had a strong commitment to animal welfare and was known for her fondness for pets. She was often seen with her beloved dogs and contributed to various animal rights organizations. Although her persona appeared to be one of frivolity, she was also a woman of compassion, supporting numerous causes and charities throughout her life.
Later Years, Health Issues, and Death
Zsa Zsa’s later years were marked by a series of unfortunate health issues. In 2002, she was involved in a car accident that left her partially paralyzed. Two years later, she suffered a stroke. In 2010, after a series of medical complications, including an infection and blood clots, her right leg was partially amputated.
Despite her failing health, Zsa Zsa remained in the public eye as much as possible, often through her husband, Frédéric, who updated the media on her condition. She spent her final years in seclusion, battling numerous illnesses but always maintaining the glamorous spirit she had become known for.
Zsa Zsa Gabor passed away on December 18, 2016, at the age of 99. The official cause of death was heart failure, although her death came after years of deteriorating health. She was survived by her husband, Frédéric, who had cared for her in her final years. Zsa Zsa was laid to rest in Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles, a fitting resting place for a woman who had become a Hollywood legend.
Legacy
Zsa Zsa Gabor’s legacy is one of glamour, excess, and timeless wit. Although she may not be remembered for her acting career, she remains an iconic figure in popular culture. Her larger-than-life persona, her many marriages, and her unapologetic love for fame have left an indelible mark on Hollywood history. In many ways, Zsa Zsa paved the way for modern-day celebrities who are known more for their personalities than for their talents. Her life, full of highs and lows, represents the quintessential Hollywood story of beauty, fame, and scandal.
Zsa Zsa Gabor on the Tonight Show in 1954
Glamorous Acting Style of Zsa Zsa Gabor
Zsa Zsa Gabor's acting style was inextricably tied to her public persona, which overshadowed much of her cinematic output. She was not known for deep method acting or for disappearing into her roles. Instead, her performances were defined by her glamorous allure, exotic charm, and effortless embodiment of high society, reflecting her own personal life. Her acting style can be described as a reflection of her character offscreen: witty, flamboyant, and unapologetically self-assured.
Glamorous Persona on Screen
In nearly every role, Zsa Zsa exuded a sense of luxury and refinement. Whether she was playing a nightclub singer, a wealthy socialite, or even a rebellious alien from Venus, she brought an air of glamour to each character. Her Hungarian accent, sophisticated demeanor, and lavish sense of fashion often made her appear like a queen in her own kingdom, regardless of the context of the role.
Gabor’s beauty and style were key components of her acting. She wore her elegance like a second skin, and much of her acting relied on her ability to captivate the audience with her looks and charisma. She often embodied the archetype of the "European socialite" or "sophisticated temptress," relying on her own personal brand of seductive charm to carry her performances.
Limited Range but Memorable Presence
Gabor was not a character actress and did not display a great deal of versatility in her roles. She did not attempt to mask her Hungarian accent, nor did she try to drastically transform herself for the parts she played. Rather, she was frequently cast in roles that aligned with her real-life identity as a glamorous woman from European high society. Her roles in films like Moulin Rouge (1952) and Death of a Scoundrel (1956) exemplified this typecasting. She often played the glamorous romantic interest or the luxurious object of desire.
Her acting style was light, bordering on camp in certain films, particularly in Queen of Outer Space (1958). In this cult-classic sci-fi film, Zsa Zsa’s over-the-top delivery and exaggerated mannerisms added to the film’s kitschy charm. The film wasn’t meant to be taken seriously, and neither was Zsa Zsa’s performance. In many ways, her acting style fit perfectly in such roles, where the goal wasn’t high dramatic art, but rather entertainment and spectacle.
Charismatic and Witty Delivery
Zsa Zsa Gabor was renowned for her quick wit, both on and off screen. She had an impeccable sense of timing when it came to delivering clever lines or humorous quips. This was especially evident in her television appearances and cameos in films like The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear (1991). Her tongue-in-cheek humor often came through in roles that allowed her to poke fun at her own celebrity, as in her cameo appearances where she parodied her own persona.
Her delivery was often casual and conversational, making her scenes feel more like social interactions than acting. She had a magnetic stage presence, commanding attention not necessarily through emotional depth, but through sheer force of personality. Her voice, distinct due to her Hungarian accent, added a touch of exotic flair to her performances, often making her characters stand out simply by speaking.
Physical Presence and Expressiveness
Zsa Zsa's acting also relied on her physicality. She had a natural elegance and grace that made her seem regal in many of her roles. Her movements were poised, her body language often conveying sophistication. She was expressive with her eyes, which she used to convey flirtation, amusement, or disdain, depending on the scene. However, she wasn’t one for grand gestures or physical transformations—her expressiveness was subtler, more about maintaining a graceful and commanding presence rather than being emotionally volatile or intense.
A Star Who Played Herself
Perhaps the most accurate way to describe Zsa Zsa Gabor's acting style is that she was always "playing Zsa Zsa." She wasn’t an actress who disappeared into her roles; instead, the roles seemed to mold themselves around her. Whether she was appearing as herself in The Naked Gun films or playing a similar variation of a glamorous, rich, and witty woman, there was always a strong sense that audiences were watching Zsa Zsa Gabor, not the character.
In a way, this was her strength. Her self-awareness allowed her to navigate Hollywood not as a traditional actress but as a personality. Her ability to lean into the self-parody and campy aspects of her persona in her later years demonstrated a keen understanding of her own brand. Audiences came to see Zsa Zsa, with all her elegance and eccentricity, and she delivered exactly that.
Camp and Self-Parody
Zsa Zsa's acting style evolved over time into something that could be described as campy and self-parodic, especially in her later roles. Her appearances in films like Queen of Outer Space and various cameo roles showcased a willingness to lean into the ridiculousness of her image. She wasn’t afraid to embrace her larger-than-life persona, often exaggerating it for comedic effect.
Her 1989 arrest for slapping a police officer became something of a media circus, and she later parodied the incident in The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear. This ability to poke fun at herself and use her public controversies as part of her performance marked the latter part of her career. She used her acting roles as extensions of her personal life, blending reality with fiction in a way that kept her in the public eye.
Conclusion: A Performer of Personality
Zsa Zsa Gabor’s acting style can be described as charismatic, self-aware, and limited by design. She was not an actress who sought emotional depth or complex roles. Instead, she played to her strengths: her beauty, her wit, and her undeniable charm. Her performances were an extension of her public persona, and in that sense, she was always a star. While she may not be remembered for her range or transformative acting abilities, she left an indelible mark on Hollywood by playing the ultimate role—herself.
Personal Quotes by Zsa Zsa Gabor
Zsa Zsa Gabor was famous not only for her glamorous lifestyle and public persona but also for her sharp wit and humorous take on love, life, and relationships. She was known for delivering memorable quotes with a mix of charm, humor, and a touch of self-deprecation. Here are some of her most famous and iconic quotes:
On Marriage and Relationships
"I am a marvelous housekeeper: Every time I leave a man, I keep his house."
One of her most famous lines, reflecting her multiple marriages and glamorous lifestyle.
"A man in love is incomplete until he has married. Then he's finished."
A witty observation on the institution of marriage.
"Husbands are like fires – they go out when unattended."
Zsa Zsa’s humorous take on the effort required in relationships.
"Getting divorced just because you don't love a man is almost as silly as getting married just because you do."
Highlighting her views on love and the complexity of relationships.
"I never hated a man enough to give him his diamonds back."
A playful commentary on her love for luxury and jewelry, as well as her many marriages.
"How many husbands have I had? You mean apart from my own?"
Another humorous jab at her long list of marriages.
On Life and Fame
"I call everyone 'dahling' because I can't remember their names."
This quote became a signature of her larger-than-life persona, emphasizing her charm and wit.
"To be loved is a strength. To love is a weakness."
A reflection of her perspective on love and relationships, often portraying herself as a glamorous but independent figure.
"You never really know a man until you have divorced him."
A humorous and somewhat cynical view on relationships and divorce.
"I want a man who's kind and understanding. Is that too much to ask of a millionaire?"
Another example of her sharp humor, highlighting her love for wealth and luxury while maintaining a self-aware tone.
On Wealth and Luxury
"I never mind if a man has the last word. I'll wait until he’s fast asleep, then I’ll take it."
A witty and playful commentary on relationships and communication dynamics between partners.
"I love to put on diamonds and beautiful evening gowns and make my girlfriends upset."
A playful reflection on her love for fashion, beauty, and glamour, which were central to her persona.
On Aging
"A girl must marry for love, and keep on marrying until she finds it."
Zsa Zsa’s humorous take on finding love, despite her many marriages.
What Others said about Zsa Zsa Gabor
Zsa Zsa Gabor was a polarizing figure in Hollywood, known for her glamorous lifestyle, sharp wit, and larger-than-life personality. She was adored by some for her charm and humor, while others saw her as the epitome of superficial celebrity culture. Below are some reflections, quotes, and observations from various people who knew or encountered her, providing a glimpse into how others viewed her:
Friends and Colleagues
- Merv Griffin (Television Host)
“Zsa Zsa is a one-woman show. Her glamour, wit, and resilience make her unforgettable. She’s always been able to laugh at herself, which is why she’s lasted so long in this town.”
Griffin, who hosted Gabor on his talk shows multiple times, admired her ability to maintain her public image with humor and grace, even through personal challenges.
- George Sanders (Actor, Ex-Husband)
“She’s an expert in the art of not being boring.”
George Sanders, who was married to Zsa Zsa from 1949 to 1954, had a complicated relationship with her but acknowledged her charm and magnetic personality.
- Eva Gabor (Sister, Actress)
“She’s a free spirit who loves life and always finds a way to make things fun. Even when we were little girls, she had this ability to command a room.”
Eva Gabor, Zsa Zsa’s younger sister and fellow actress, frequently spoke about her sister’s playful personality and knack for captivating attention.
Critics and Media
- The New York Times (Obituary, 2016)
“Gabor, who would have been as much at home in the court of Louis XV as in a Beverly Hills mansion, epitomized glamour and celebrity in a time when those qualities still mattered.”
This commentary highlighted her embodiment of old Hollywood glamour and her ability to make herself relevant across decades.
- Vanity Fair
“She was one of the first celebrities who understood that being famous was an art in itself, not just the byproduct of having talent or a particular skill. Zsa Zsa Gabor was one of the original 'famous-for-being-famous' figures, paving the way for future generations of celebrity culture.”
Vanity Fair acknowledged Zsa Zsa's understanding of fame and how she used her image to stay in the limelight, even when she wasn’t actively pursuing acting roles.
Pop Culture Figures
- Paris Hilton (Socialite, Great-Granddaughter by Marriage)
“Zsa Zsa was glamorous, strong, and had an amazing sense of humor. She always had a sparkle in her eyes. I think she lived a fabulous life and taught us all to never take ourselves too seriously.”
Hilton, who became part of the Gabor-Hilton extended family through Zsa Zsa’s marriage to Conrad Hilton, appreciated Gabor’s glamour and influence on the younger generations of socialites.
- Joan Rivers (Comedian and TV Host)
“Zsa Zsa was the original diva before anyone else. She was funny, fearless, and always dressed to the nines. People like Zsa Zsa aren’t made anymore.”
Joan Rivers admired Gabor’s unapologetic diva persona, which fit well with Rivers’ own approach to humor and celebrity.
Biographers and Cultural Observers
- David Bret (Biographer)
“She was a master at turning herself into a commodity. Zsa Zsa was one of the first to realize that a celebrity could maintain relevance by staying in the public eye, regardless of the quality of her films or television roles. Her marriages, her quotes, her legal troubles—all of these contributed to her enduring presence in popular culture.”
Bret’s biography of Gabor emphasized her understanding of celebrity, noting that she maintained fame through her personality and public image rather than her professional achievements.
- Buzz Bissinger (Journalist)
“Zsa Zsa Gabor was the glamorous Hollywood that no longer exists. She was part of a breed of celebrity that thrived on being fabulous, and people adored her for it. She didn’t need to be a great actress to be a great star.”
Bissinger remarked on how Zsa Zsa represented the bygone era of pure Hollywood glam, where charisma and luxury could carry a celebrity for decades.
Awards and Recognition
Golden Globe Award (1958)
Category: Special Achievement Award - Most Glamorous Actress
Zsa Zsa Gabor was honored with this special Golden Globe award in 1958 for her glamorous public image. This award acknowledged her iconic status as one of Hollywood's most stylish and glamorous women, reflecting her larger-than-life persona both on and off the screen. The award highlighted her influence as a fashion icon and her contribution to the idea of celebrity glamour.
Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (1960)
Zsa Zsa Gabor was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to television. Located at 6915 Hollywood Boulevard, this star represents her lasting influence in the entertainment industry and her status as a cultural icon. Despite not having a prolific television career, her regular appearances on talk shows and guest spots cemented her place in Hollywood history.
Miss Hungary (1936)
Before her Hollywood career, Zsa Zsa Gabor was crowned Miss Hungary in 1936. Although she emigrated to the United States before the official competition took place, this early recognition of her beauty marked the beginning of her journey into the world of fame and glamour.
Honorary Doctorate from the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science (1962)
In an unusual and playful moment in her career, Zsa Zsa Gabor received an honorary doctorate from the San Francisco College of Mortuary Science. This was a tongue-in-cheek honor, reflecting her vivacious personality and willingness to engage with light-hearted humor about her public image.
Other Recognitions and Cultural Impact
Pop Culture Icon Recognition
While Zsa Zsa Gabor may not have been recognized with traditional acting awards, her influence on pop culture was profound. She was frequently parodied in television shows, movies, and other media, and her witty one-liners became part of Hollywood folklore. Her glamorous lifestyle, her string of high-profile marriages, and her catchphrases such as calling everyone "dahling" made her an instantly recognizable figure.
Recognition as a Fashion and Style Icon
Zsa Zsa Gabor was frequently celebrated in fashion magazines and on red carpets for her bold and luxurious style. She was known for her love of diamonds, furs, and designer gowns, and her influence extended beyond acting into the realm of celebrity fashion. She was often regarded as one of the most stylish women in Hollywood during the 1950s and 1960s.
Cultural Parodies and Tributes
Gabor’s larger-than-life persona and memorable voice made her a frequent subject of parodies and tributes in popular culture. From animated shows like The Simpsons to talk show appearances, she was often caricatured for her lavish lifestyle and glamorous persona. This in itself was a form of recognition, as few celebrities were iconic enough to be consistently referenced and mimicked in mainstream media.
Lifetime Achievement Awards
While she did not receive a formal "lifetime achievement" award from organizations such as the Academy Awards or the Screen Actors Guild, Gabor's entire public career can be seen as a testament to her influence on celebrity culture. Her presence in Hollywood and her status as one of the first celebrities to be "famous for being famous" paved the way for generations of future stars.
Movies Starring Zsa Zsa Gabor
1952
- Lovely to Look At
Synopsis: A group of Broadway producers attempt to revive a failing musical. Zsa Zsa plays a supporting role in this vibrant Technicolor musical, which was a remake of the 1935 film Roberta.
- Moulin Rouge
Synopsis: Directed by John Huston, the film is set in late-19th-century Paris and tells the story of the famous French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Zsa Zsa plays Jane Avril, a singer and dancer, in one of her most iconic roles.
1953
- Lili
Synopsis: This musical drama follows the story of an orphan girl named Lili who joins a circus and develops a relationship with a puppeteer. Zsa Zsa has a small role as Rosalie, a glamorous assistant.
1954
- 3 Ring Circus
Synopsis: This comedy stars Jerry Lewis and Dean Martin as circus performers. Zsa Zsa plays a circus star named Saadia, a glamorous trapeze artist who catches the eye of the lead characters.
1956
- Death of a Scoundrel
Synopsis: Zsa Zsa co-stars with her ex-husband George Sanders in this noir drama. The film is about a businessman who manipulates and ruins the lives of others for profit. Zsa Zsa plays a wealthy socialite who becomes entangled in the lead character’s schemes.
1957
- The Man Who Wouldn't Talk
Synopsis: This crime drama is about an American scientist who is wrongly accused of murder while visiting England. Zsa Zsa plays a woman involved in the international intrigue surrounding the case.
1958
- Touch of Evil
Synopsis: Directed by Orson Welles, this film noir is about corruption in a small Mexican border town. Zsa Zsa appears in a brief role as the owner of a brothel. The movie became a classic due to Welles' direction and Charlton Heston's performance.
- Queen of Outer Space
Synopsis: In this campy sci-fi film, Zsa Zsa plays Talleah, a Venusian who leads a group of women rebelling against their planet’s evil queen. The film has gained a cult following for its cheesy special effects and plot.
1959
- For the First Time
Synopsis: A romantic drama about a famous tenor who falls in love with a deaf woman. Zsa Zsa appears in a small role as Gloria De Vadnuz, a glamorous socialite in the opera world.
1960
- The Millionaire (TV Series) - episode: The Donn Reynolds Story
Synopsis: In this anthology television series, each episode followed a different story about a character who receives a million dollars from a mysterious benefactor. Zsa Zsa appeared in one episode.
1962
- Boys' Night Out
Synopsis: A comedy about four businessmen who rent an apartment for extramarital affairs but end up being tricked by a sociology student. Zsa Zsa plays the wife of one of the businessmen in a comedic role.
1963
- Picture Mommy Dead
Synopsis: This psychological horror film is about a young girl who returns home from a mental institution after her mother’s mysterious death. Zsa Zsa plays Jessica Flagmore Shelley, a stepmother with dark intentions.
1966
- Drop Dead Darling
Synopsis: This British comedy stars Tony Curtis as a playboy who is trying to get rid of his multiple girlfriends. Zsa Zsa plays one of the glamorous women caught up in his schemes.
1972
- Up the Front
Synopsis: A British comedy about a soldier who becomes a spy during World War I. Zsa Zsa has a small role as Mata Hari, the famous exotic dancer and spy.
1976
- Won Ton Ton, the Dog Who Saved Hollywood
Synopsis: A comedy that parodies Hollywood's golden age, focusing on a dog who becomes a movie star. Zsa Zsa makes a cameo appearance as herself, in a film that features many famous stars in small roles.
1987
- The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear
Synopsis: This is the second film in the Naked Gun comedy series starring Leslie Nielsen. Zsa Zsa makes a brief cameo, parodying her infamous 1989 incident where she slapped a police officer.
1989
- The Naked Truth
Synopsis: This British comedy film centers on a blackmailer targeting public figures. Zsa Zsa plays herself in a cameo role, leaning into her reputation as a glamorous and controversial figure.
1991
- The Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear
Synopsis: Zsa Zsa made a cameo appearance in this sequel to The Naked Gun, humorously playing on her public persona. She famously slaps a police officer in the movie, referencing her real-life legal trouble from 1989.
1993
- The Beverly Hillbillies
Synopsis: Based on the popular 1960s TV show, this comedy film follows the Clampett family as they move to Beverly Hills after striking oil. Zsa Zsa makes a cameo as herself, adding to the celebrity flavor of the film.
1996
- A Very Brady Sequel
Synopsis: A comedic sequel to The Brady Bunch Movie, Zsa Zsa makes another cameo appearance as herself, cementing her role as an enduring Hollywood icon.
1997
- Touch of a Stranger
Synopsis: In this drama, a young boy befriends a mysterious stranger who may be an angel. Zsa Zsa has a small supporting role as a glamorous figure in the background.
2013 (posthumous release)
- A Very Zsa Zsa Christmas
Synopsis: This small, independently made TV movie aired years after Zsa Zsa had retired from public life. The film parodied Zsa Zsa’s glamorous persona, and she made a final cameo appearance as herself.