Crawford’s career began in the silent film era, where she appeared in bit parts in various films. However, it wasn’t until she signed with MGM in 1925 that her career began to take off. Crawford quickly became one of MGM’s most popular actresses, appearing in dozens of films during the 1920s and 1930s. She was known for her ability to play a wide range of roles, from the glamorous leading lady to the tough, no-nonsense career woman.
Crawford’s career hit a rough patch in the late 1930s, as she struggled to find roles that suited her. However, she made a comeback in the 1940s, starring in films like « Mildred Pierce » and « Possessed. » « Mildred Pierce » in particular was a major success, earning Crawford her only Academy Award for Best Actress.
Throughout her career, Crawford was known for her strong personality and work ethic. She was notoriously difficult to work with at times, but her talent and dedication to her craft made her one of the most respected actresses in Hollywood. She was also known for her fashion sense, with her signature shoulder pads and high-waisted skirts becoming a popular style in the 1940s.
Crawford’s personal life was often as dramatic as her films. She was married four times and had multiple affairs throughout her life. She also had a notoriously difficult relationship with her daughter, Christina Crawford, who later wrote a tell-all memoir about their troubled relationship. Despite the challenges in her personal life, Crawford remained a beloved figure in Hollywood until her death in 1977.
Today, Crawford’s legacy lives on through her films and her influence on Hollywood fashion. She was a trailblazer for female actors, proving that women could be just as strong and talented as their male counterparts. Her determination and dedication to her craft continue to inspire audiences and aspiring actors alike.