Role

:

Performer

Birth

:

December 9, 1897 in London, England, UK

Death

:

May 24, 1987 in New York City, NY

Genre

:

Chamber

 

Hermione Gingold was a British actress, singer, and comedian who became known for her unique and eccentric style. She was born on December 9, 1897, in London, England, to a family of Jewish immigrants. Her father was a successful stockbroker, and her mother was a singer and actress. Gingold grew up in a privileged environment and received a good education, attending the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Gingold began her career as a stage actress in the 1920s, appearing in a number of plays in London's West End. She quickly gained a reputation for her wit and humor, and her performances were often praised for their originality and quirkiness. In the 1930s, she began to appear in films, including the classic comedy "The Little Princess" (1939), in which she played the role of Miss Minchin. Gingold's career took off in the 1950s, when she began to perform in musicals and operettas. She appeared in a number of productions on Broadway, including "A Little Night Music" (1973), for which she received a Tony Award nomination. She also appeared in several films during this period, including "Gigi" (1958), for which she received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. One of Gingold's most memorable performances was in the 1956 Broadway production of "Shinbone Alley," a musical based on the writings of Don Marquis. Gingold played the role of Mehitabel, a wisecracking alley cat, and her performance was widely praised for its humor and energy. She also appeared in the 1961 film version of the musical, which starred Carol Channing. Gingold was known for her distinctive voice and her ability to deliver lines with impeccable timing. She often played eccentric or larger-than-life characters, and her performances were always memorable. She was also a talented singer, and she recorded several albums of songs and show tunes during her career. In addition to her work in the theater and film, Gingold was also a frequent guest on television talk shows and variety programs. She was a regular on "The Jack Paar Show" and "The Ed Sullivan Show," and she appeared on "The Muppet Show" in 1978. Gingold continued to work well into her 80s, appearing in a number of films and television shows in the 1980s. She died on May 24, 1987, at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and a unique style that continues to inspire performers today.

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