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Early Life and Background
Born on December 9, 1897, in Maida Vale, London, Hermione Ferdinanda Gingold was destined for the limelight. Her parents, James Gingold and Kate Walter, were well-to-do, and she grew up in an environment that nurtured her artistic inclinations. Her childhood was marked by a love for the arts, and she was introduced to the world of theatre at a young age.
| Name | Hermione Ferdinanda Gingold |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Actress |
| Date of Birth | December 9, 1897 |
| Birth Place | Maida Vale, London, United Kingdom |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Net Worth | $1 million |
| Source of Income | Theatre, Film, Television |
| Height | 5’4" |
| Weight | 130 lbs |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Parents | James Gingold, Kate Walter |
| Spouse | Eric Maschwitz (1926–1945), Michael Joseph (1918–1926) |
| Children | Roy Dean, Stephen Joseph |
| Education | Privately Educated |
Rising Star: Early Career
Hermione’s foray into acting began on the London stage in the early 1900s. She quickly gained recognition for her distinctive drawling, deep voice, a result of nodules on her vocal cords developed during the 1920s and early 1930s. This unique voice became her trademark, setting her apart from her contemporaries.
Stage Triumphs
Her performances in West End productions were critically acclaimed, and she became a household name in British theatre. Some of her notable stage works include "The Importance of Being Earnest" and "A Little Night Music."
Transition to Film and Television
In the mid-20th century, Hermione transitioned to film and television, where she continued to captivate audiences with her sharp-tongued, eccentric characters. She appeared in several Hollywood films, including "Gigi" and "Bell, Book and Candle." Her performance in "Gigi" earned her a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress.
Personal Life
Hermione’s personal life was as colorful as her career. She was married twice, first to Michael Joseph in 1918, with whom she had two sons, Roy Dean and Stephen Joseph. The marriage ended in 1926, and she later married Eric Maschwitz in 1926. This marriage lasted until 1945.
Family Ties
Despite her busy career, Hermione was a devoted mother to her two sons. Roy Dean followed in his mother’s footsteps and pursued a career in the arts, while Stephen Joseph became a prominent theatre director.
Later Years and Legacy
In her later years, Hermione moved to New York, where she continued to perform on stage and screen. She passed away on May 24, 1987, at the age of 89. She is buried at Forest Lawn Cemetery in California.
Enduring Influence
Hermione Gingold’s legacy continues to inspire actors and performers around the world. Her unique voice, sharp wit, and eccentric characters have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Net Worth
At the time of her death, Hermione Gingold’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million. Her primary sources of income included her work in theatre, film, and television.
Fun Facts
- Hermione was known for her quick wit and sharp tongue, both on and off the stage.
- She was a close friend of Noël Coward, the famous playwright, and composer.
- Hermione’s distinctive voice was often imitated but never duplicated.
Final Thoughts
Hermione Gingold was a true original, a woman who carved out a unique niche in the world of entertainment. Her legacy lives on through her memorable performances and the lasting impact she had on the arts.
