Julie Andrews is a legendary star in the entertainment world. She has won hearts globally with her acting, singing, and charm1. Her career has lasted over seven decades.
Andrews started her career in 1954 with “The Boy Friend” in England. She won the Theatre World Award for her outstanding debut2. In 1956, she became famous as Eliza Doolittle in “My Fair Lady,” getting a Tony Award nomination2.
Key Takeaways
- Julie Andrews is a legendary actress and singer with a remarkable career spanning over seven decades.
- She made her professional stage debut in 1954 and rose to prominence on Broadway, starring in iconic musicals like “My Fair Lady” and “Camelot.”
- Andrews’ powerful singing voice and captivating stage presence have earned her numerous accolades, including an Academy Award, Golden Globes, and Emmy Awards.
- She has successfully transitioned to Hollywood, starring in beloved classics like “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music.”
- Andrews is also a prolific children’s book author and has published two acclaimed memoirs about her early life and Hollywood career.
Early Life and Vocal Training
Julie Andrews was born Julia Elizabeth Wells on October 1, 1935, in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, England345. She grew up in a family of performers from vaudeville. Her mom, Barbara Ward (Morris), and stepdad, Ted Andrews, found her amazing four-octave voice early. By age 10 in 1947, she started performing professionally4. She began vocal training with her stepdad at just 7 years old3.
Childhood in England
During World War II, Andrews’ parents worked for ENSA, entertaining the British Armed Forces3. This was when her vocal cords developed fully, showing her talent early5. She went to the Cone-Ripman School, a place for arts education, to improve her skills.
Discovery of Her Remarkable Voice
Ted Andrews, her stepfather, helped start her career. He introduced her to Val Parnell, leading to her first solo at the London Hippodrome at 125. This early stage experience and her natural voice set the stage for her success.
Formal Training and Mentors
Andrews showed talent early, but she also got formal training. She worked with Madame Lilian Stiles-Allen, a famous singer and teacher3. Under Stiles-Allen, she practiced scales, breathing, and more, improving her singing.
“I had an exceptional four-octave range, and I was able to sing the Mozart repertoire by the time I was 12.”
– Julie Andrews
Her early life and training set the stage for her legendary career. She won over audiences with her voice and talent345.
Broadway Debut and Breakthrough
In September 1954, a young Julie Andrews made her Broadway debut. She starred as Polly Browne in “The Boy Friend.” For this role, she won the Theatre World Award for Outstanding Broadway Debut6. This was just the start of her successful career in theater and film.
Two years later, Andrews landed the role of Eliza Doolittle in “My Fair Lady.” She played this part from 1956 to 19596. Her performance turned the Cockney flower girl into a refined lady. This earned her a Tony Award nomination, proving she was a star on the rise6.
My Fair Lady: The Breakout Performance
Andrews’ role as Eliza Doolittle in “My Fair Lady” showed off her amazing voice and acting skills6. The show was a huge hit, running for over 2,000 performances6. It made Julie Andrews a star on Broadway6.
“She is a young woman of great promise, and her Eliza Doolittle is a triumph of the theatrical art.”
– The New York Times review of “My Fair Lady”
“My Fair Lady” was a huge success, leading to Andrews’ move to Hollywood6. Her success on Broadway paved the way for her to become a lasting icon in entertainment6.
Hollywood Success
Julie Andrews made her film debut in 1964 as Mary Poppins in Walt Disney’s classic musical7. Her role won her an Academy Award, BAFTA Award, Golden Globe, and Grammy Award7. The next year, she played Maria von Trapp in “The Sound of Music,” a global hit that earned her more awards and nominations8.
Mary Poppins: The Disney Classic
Julie Andrews made Mary Poppins a beloved character in the 1964 Disney film7. The movie, also starring Dick Van Dyke, was a huge hit, making over $100 million and winning five Academy Awards9. Andrews won Best Actress for her role.
The Sound of Music: Global Phenomenon
In 1965, Andrews played Maria von Trapp in “The Sound of Music,” a worldwide hit8. The film, with Christopher Plummer, made over $286 million and won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture9. Andrews’ performance got her more awards and nominations8.
Julie Andrews continued to win over fans with her acting and singing in Hollywood7. Her talent and popularity have made her a beloved star8.
Julie Andrews faced doubts about her past work but overcame them with new talents8. Her powerful voice and performances have made her a legend in entertainment879.
Diverse Film Career
In the 1960s and 1970s, Julie Andrews10 took on a wide variety of roles. She showed her range in films like “The Americanization of Emily” and “Torn Curtain”. These roles proved she could draw in fans across different genres11. Her singing shone in “Thoroughly Modern Millie” and “Star!”, which told the story of Gertrude Lawrence11.
Andrews also explored deeper characters, like a man pretending to be a woman in “Victor/Victoria”. This role earned her a sixth Golden Globe11. Her parts in “That’s Life!” and “Duet for One” showed her skill in playing complex roles11.
Working with her ex-husband, director Blake Edwards, led to seven films, including “Victor/Victoria.”11 This partnership highlighted Andrews’ wide range, making her a true Hollywood legend10.
| Film | Year | Genre |
|---|---|---|
| The Americanization of Emily | 1964 | Drama |
| Torn Curtain | 1966 | Thriller |
| Thoroughly Modern Millie | 1967 | Musical |
| Star! | 1968 | Biopic |
| The Tamarind Seed | 1974 | Drama |
| 10 | 1979 | Comedy |
| S.O.B. | 1981 | Satire |
| Victor/Victoria | 1982 | Comedy |
| That’s Life! | 1986 | Drama |
| Duet for One | 1986 | Drama |
Julie Andrews’10 career has covered many genres, from stage to screen. Her work has won over fans globally, making her a beloved figure in entertainment11.
Julie Andrews: Acclaimed Actress and Singer
Julie Andrews has won many awards for her work in entertainment12. She was born on October 1, 1935, in England. At 20, she started her career in “Cinderella” at the London Palladium12. Her role in “Mary Poppins” in 1964 won her an Academy Award12. Her part in “The Sound of Music” made her a global star, making it the top-grossing film of its time12.
Andrews has been praised for her talent and versatility over the years13. She has won 1 Academy Award, 4 Golden Globe Awards, and 8 Emmy Awards13. In 2001, she got the Kennedy Center Honors12. In 2007, she was given the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award12. In 2022, she received the AFI Life Achievement Award12.
Julie Andrews has also been honored for her global impact on the arts13. In 2000, she was named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) by Queen Elizabeth II13. This honor shows her big impact on culture14. Over her 77-year career, she has kept winning over audiences with her talent and charm14.
Julie Andrews is a true icon, inspiring many artists with her talent and hard work12. Her roles in “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music” are just the start of her impressive career12. Her work has made a lasting mark on the arts, securing her place among the legends.
Television and Variety Shows
Julie Andrews shined on TV, too, not just in movies and on stage. She had her own show, “The Julie Andrews Hour,” from 1972 to 1973. It had 24 episodes15. The show was a hit, getting 10 Emmy nods and winning 715. She even got a Golden Globe nomination for it15.
The Julie Andrews Hour
The Julie Andrews Hour showed off Andrews’ wide range, with music, comedy, and stars16. It got a high 8.8/10 on IMDb from 153 ratings, with a glowing review calling it “One of the best variety shows EVER.”16 But, ABC ended it after 24 episodes15.
Collaborations with Carol Burnett
Julie Andrews also teamed up with Carol Burnett on TV. They starred in hits like “Julie and Carol at Carnegie Hall” and “Julie and Carol: Together Again.”17 Their chemistry and comedy were perfect.
After “The Julie Andrews Hour” ended, Andrews kept winning on TV with five more specials15. She then made “The Tamarind Seed” in Barbados, adding to her impressive work15.
Julie Andrews has shown her amazing talent in singing, acting, and entertaining. She’s won hearts on stage, screen, and TV. Her work, from classic movies to her variety shows and team-ups, proves she’s a true entertainment legend171516.
Stage Revivals and Directing
Julie Andrews has always been a star on stage, winning hearts with her talent and charm. Her 2017 revival of “My Fair Lady” at the Sydney Opera House was a big hit. She was nominated for a Helpmann Award for Best Direction of a Musical18.
This revival aimed to bring back the magic of the 1956 Broadway show. The team worked hard to find the original plans, costumes, and sets18.
Andrews is not just a star; she’s also a skilled director. In 2022, she directed “The Great American Musical” at the Legacy Theatre in Connecticut19. The show was a big challenge for the small theater, but Andrews made it work.
Her friend Anne Runolfsson helped make “The Great American Musical” happen19. Rehearsals started on June 17, 2022, and the show ran from July 11 to July 2819.
Julie Andrews loves bringing classic musicals to life for today’s audiences. Her work as an actress and director has made her a legend in the entertainment world.
| Production | Year | Details |
|---|---|---|
| My Fair Lady (Sydney Opera House) | 2017 | Julie Andrews directed this 60th-anniversary revival, which aimed to recreate the original 1956 Broadway production. The cast included notable actors such as three-time Olivier winner Alex Jennings, young Australian star Anna O’Byrne, and other renowned performers. |
| The Great American Musical (Legacy Theatre) | 2022 | Andrews directed this musical at the intimate proscenium stage of the Legacy Theatre in Branford, Connecticut. The production presented a challenge as it was a “big show for a small regional theater,” but the theater saw the collaboration with Andrews as an opportunity to enhance its reputation and visibility. |
| Victor/Victoria (Broadway) | 1995 | This musical production, based on the 1982 film, marked Julie Andrews’ return to Broadway after a 33-year hiatus. The show featured a large cast of 32 performers, including Broadway veterans, and a score that included songs from the original movie as well as new music. |
Julie Andrews’ work on stage and behind the scenes has shown her love for theater. Her productions, like “My Fair Lady” and “The Great American Musical,” have made her a stage icon. She’s known for her talent and charm192018.
Voice Acting and Animation
In the 21st century, Julie Andrews has become a voice for animated projects. She has voiced Queen Lillian in the “Shrek” franchise21 and Marlena in the “Despicable Me” franchise22. Andrews loves playing villain roles, especially Gru’s mother in “Despicable Me.”22
Andrews started voice acting in the 1950s with “The Singing Princess.”21 In the 2000s, she narrated “Enchanted” and played Lady Whistle down in “Bridgerton.”21
Shrek and Despicable Me Franchises
Andrews has been a big part of the “Shrek” and “Despicable Me” franchises22. Illumination let her name her “Despicable Me” character, Marlena, showing how much they value her21. She will continue to voice Marlena in “Minions: The Rise of Gru.”22
| Franchise | Role | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Shrek | Queen Lillian | 2004-2010 |
| Despicable Me | Marlena | 2010-2022 |
| Aquaman | Unnamed Character | 2018 |
| Bridgerton | Lady Whistledown (Narrator) | 2020-present |
Julie Andrews was given the AFI Life Achievement Award for her 75-year career22. She joins stars like Bette Davis and Gene Kelly in this honor23. This award highlights her lasting impact on entertainment with her voice acting23.
“I’ve always enjoyed playing villain roles, particularly embodying the character of Gru’s mother, Marlena, in the Despicable Me franchise. She’s a terrible role model for a mother, but it’s been great fun to voice such an eccentric and unorthodox character.”
–Julie Andrews
Children’s Literature and Memoirs
Acclaimed actress and singer Julie Andrews has made a mark in children’s books, working with her daughter Emma Walton Hamilton24. Together, they’ve written 35 books for kids, sharing their love for stories and inspiring young minds24.
Julie Andrews has also shared her life and career in two memoirs25. “Home: A Memoir of My Early Years” came out in 2008, and “Home Work: A Memoir of My Hollywood Years” followed in 201925. Both books have been big hits, with the second one being a sequel to the first, a New York Times bestseller25.
| Book Format | Price Range |
|---|---|
| E-book | $12.99 |
| Hardcover | $30.00 – $38.00 CAD |
| Large Print Hardcover | $48.00 – $61.00 CAD |
| Audiobook Download | $17.99 – $22.99 CAD |
| Audiobook CD | $35.00 – $44.50 CAD |
“Home Work: A Memoir of My Hollywood Years” is a new book by Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton25. It covers Andrews’ time in Hollywood and her personal life25. The book has 352 pages and is published by Hachette Books, with an ISBN-13 of 978031634923925.
“Home Work: A Memoir of My Hollywood Years” invites readers to connect with the authors on social media like Instagram and Twitter for a closer look25.
The book hits shelves on October 15, 2019, and is already up for preorder25. With a 4.05 rating on Goodreads, Julie Andrews’ works have been highly praised, showing her lasting fame and the power of her stories26.
Julie Andrews’ work in children’s books and memoirs has made her a true legend. Her stories touch people of all ages, proving her lasting impact and artistry24.
Honors and Legacy
Julie Andrews has had a career filled with many awards. These honors show she’s a beloved and respected star of her time27.
Academy Awards and Golden Globes
She has won many Academy Awards and Golden Globes. This makes her a legend in entertainment. For her role in “Mary Poppins,” she got an Academy Award for Best Actress. She was also nominated for “The Sound of Music.”2829
Andrews has also won several Golden Globe Awards. She got the Cecil B. DeMille Award for her lifetime achievements in entertainment28.
Dame Commander of the British Empire
Queen Elizabeth II made Julie Andrews a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2000. This honor is like a knighthood and shows she’s a cultural icon in the UK28.
Andrews has also won many other awards. These include Primetime Emmy Awards, Grammys, and career achievement awards. She’s received the Kennedy Center Honors, the SAG Life Achievement Award, and the American Film Institute’s Life Achievement Award2728.
“She has been part of some of the most iconic and beloved movies and musicals of all time, and her impact on the entertainment industry is truly unparalleled.”
Julie Andrews is known for her amazing talent and lasting impact. Her work has made her one of the greatest entertainers of the 20th century272829.
Timeless Charm and Enduring Popularity
Julie Andrews has been in the entertainment world for decades, still winning over fans with her charm and talent. She’s known for her roles in “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music”. These roles made her a favorite among many, bringing joy to families worldwide.
She was born on October 1, 1935, in Walton-on-Thames, England. At just 12, she made her first big performance at the London Hippodrome30. Her voice was so clear and perfect, setting a high bar for singers. At 18, she made her Broadway debut in “The Boy Friend”30.
Her big break came with “Mary Poppins” in 1964, winning an Academy Award for Best Actress30. The next year, “The Sound of Music” brought her another nomination30. She shone in both comedy and drama, becoming a beloved star.
Andrews also wrote children’s books, like “The Very Fairy Princess” series with her daughter Emma Walton Hamilton31. This added to her creative achievements. She paved the way for women in entertainment, leaving a lasting mark on popular culture31.
Today, Julie Andrews remains a beloved figure, still captivating audiences with her charm and family-friendly entertainment303231. Her legacy as a cherished performer will continue to inspire fans for years to come303231.
Conclusion
Julie Andrews has had a career that spans over eight decades, making her one of the most accomplished performers in show business33. She started on Broadway at just 12 years old in 194733. Her breakthrough came with the 1964 film “Mary Poppins,” earning her an Oscar33.
Andrews has won many awards for her work, including being named a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II33. She continues to work on new projects, still captivating audiences with her talent33. Julie Andrews has made a lasting impact on the performing arts, becoming an iconic star.
FAQ
What is Julie Andrews’ most famous role?
Julie Andrews is most famous for playing Mary Poppins in the 1964 Disney film. She also starred as Maria von Trapp in the 1965 musical film The Sound of Music.
What awards has Julie Andrews won?
Julie Andrews has won many awards, like an Academy Award and a BAFTA Award. She also got two Emmy Awards, three Grammy Awards, and six Golden Globe Awards. In 2001, she was given the Kennedy Center Honors.
She received the Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award in 2007 and the AFI Life Achievement Award in 2022.
What is Julie Andrews’ memoir called?
Julie Andrews wrote two memoirs. “Home: A Memoir of My Early Years” came out in 2008. “Home Work: A Memoir of My Hollywood Years” was published in 2019.
Has Julie Andrews directed any stage productions?
Yes, Andrews has directed stage shows too. She directed “My Fair Lady” at the Sydney Opera House in 2017. This work earned her a nomination for the Helpmann Award for Best Direction of a Musical.
What other roles has Julie Andrews played in animation?
In recent years, Andrews has voiced characters in animated movies. She voiced Queen Lillian in the “Shrek” franchise and Marlena in “Despicable Me.” She also worked on “Aquaman” and “Minions: The Rise of Gru.”
Has Julie Andrews written any children’s books?
Andrews has written children’s books too. She worked on them with her daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton.
What is Julie Andrews’ background?
Julie Andrews was born Julia Elizabeth Wells on October 1, 1935, in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, England. Her parents, Barbara Ward (Morris) and Ted Andrews, were in vaudeville. They found her singing voice at a young age.
Source Links
- Julie Andrews – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julie_Andrews
- Dame Julie Andrews | Academy of Achievement – https://achievement.org/achiever/julie-andrews/
- Research Project: Julie Andrews – https://haileyvjulieandrews.weebly.com/
- Julie Andrews | Biography, Movies, & Facts – https://www.britannica.com/biography/Julie-Andrews
- Julie Andrews | The Stars | Broadway: The American Musical | PBS – https://www.pbs.org/wnet/broadway/stars/julie-andrews/
- Practically Perfect: Disney Legend Julie Andrews – https://factsandfigment.com/practically-perfect-disney-legend-julie-andrews/
- Julie Andrews Says Sudden Success of ‘Mary Poppins,’ ‘The Sound of Music’ Was Like an ‘Assault’ – https://www.billboard.com/culture/tv-film/julie-andrews-talks-sudden-success-early-career-8529024/
- How Julie Andrews Made Herself At ‘Home’ In Hollywood – https://health.wusf.usf.edu/2019-10-15/how-julie-andrews-made-herself-at-home-in-hollywood
- A Glance At Julie Andrews’ Incredible Career In Hollywood – https://www.therichest.com/rich-powerful/a-glance-at-julie-andrews-incredible-career-in-hollywood/
- Julie Andrews: Actress Spotlight – https://thisdayinfilmhistory.com/julie-andrews-actress-spotlight/
- Julie Andrews Breaks Down Her Career, from ‘The Sound of Music’ to ‘The Princess Diaries’ – https://www.vanityfair.com/video/watch/vf-career-timeline-julie-andrews
- Julie Andrews | Actress, Writer, Producer – https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000267/
- Julie Andrews | Kennedy Center – https://www.kennedy-center.org/artists/a/aa-an/julie-andrews/
- All you need to know about Julie Andrews’ movies, children and career – https://www.classicfm.com/discover-music/julie-andrews-age-films-family/
- The Julie Andrews Hour – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Julie_Andrews_Hour
- The Julie Andrews Hour (TV Series 1972–1973) ⭐ 8.8 | Music – https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0068089/
- Julie Andrews – https://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/julie-andrews/credits/3000397306/
- Julie Andrews-Directed My Fair Lady Opens Tonight – https://playbill.com/article/julie-andrews-directed-my-fair-lady-opens-tonight
- Dame Julie Andrews directs revival of ‘The Great American Musical’ in CT this summer – https://www.ctpublic.org/news/2024-03-18/dame-julie-andrews-directs-revival-of-the-great-american-mousical-in-ct-this-summer
- Victor/Victoria and the Return of Julie Andrews to Broadway – https://www.pojones.com/post/victor-victoria-and-the-return-of-julie-andrews-to-broadway
- Julie Andrews Said Voice Acting Is ‘Sort of Putty in the Director’s Hands’ – https://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/julie-andrews-said-voice-acting-putty-directors-hands.html/
- Julie Andrews admits she’s never met Bridgerton co-stars – https://www.timeout.com/news/julie-andrews-admits-shes-never-met-bridgerton-co-stars-062722
- Julie Andrews: The voice of Lady Whistle down and – https://www.directv.com/insider/julie-andrews-the-voice-of-a-generation-or-two/
- Julie Andrews on finding her voice again, as a children’s book author – https://www.cbsnews.com/news/julie-andrews-and-emma-walton-hamilton-on-childrens-book-waiting-in-the-wings/
- Home Work – https://www.hachettebooks.com/titles/julie-andrews/home-work/9780316349239/
- Books by Julie Andrews Edwards (Author of Home) – https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/6781.Julie_Andrews_Edwards
- Julie Andrews’ ‘Loverly’ & Totally Unique Recording Legacy – https://www.billboard.com/lists/julie-andrews-recording-legacy/
- Julie Andrews – Age, Movies & Sound of Music – https://www.biography.com/actors/julie-andrews
- Julie Andrews at American Film Institute honor: ‘I’ve been the most lucky lady’ – https://cbsaustin.com/news/entertainment/julie-andrews-at-american-film-institute-honor-ive-been-the-most-lucky-lady-supercalifragilisticexpialidocious-mary-poppins-walt-disney-sound-of-music-how-old-is-julie-andrews-hollywood-career-gwen-stefani-pharrell-williams-wind-it-up-the-lonely-goatherd
- Julie Andrews Summary PDF | Richard Stirling – https://www.bookey.app/book/julie-andrews
- The Timeless Charm and the Legacy of Julie Andrews – This Film That Year – https://thisfilmthatyear.com/index.php/2024/04/21/the-timeless-charm-and-the-legacy-of-julie-andrews/
- How Old Was Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music? Exploring Her Impact and Legacy – Bridport Music – https://www.bridportmusic.co.uk/how-old-was-julie-andrews-in-the-sound-of-music/
- Julie Andrews Early Life, Career and Awards, Facts & Worksheets – https://kidskonnect.com/people/julie-andrews/
