Hedda Hopper was born on February 2, 1885, in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, as Elda Furry. She grew up in a German Baptist Brethren family and had a relatively simple upbringing in rural Pennsylvania. Before pursuing a career in journalism, Hopper worked as a Broadway chorus girl, gaining firsthand experience of the entertainment industry.
In the late 1930s, Hopper began writing a regular gossip column for the Los Angeles Times under the name "Hedda Hopper's Hollywood." Her column quickly gained popularity for its candid and often controversial commentary on the glamorous world of Hollywood. Hopper's sharp wit and no-holds-barred writing style made her a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, rivaling the likes of Louella Parsons, another influential gossip columnist of the time.
In 1913, Hopper married actor DeWolf Hopper, with whom she had a son named William Hopper. Despite her busy career as a journalist, Hopper remained dedicated to her family and was known for being a loving and supportive mother and wife.
Throughout her career, Hopper conducted numerous high-profile interviews with celebrities, including Lucille Ball. She was also known for her fearless approach to reporting, often exposing scandals and controversies within the entertainment industry. Hopper's column played a significant role in shaping public opinion and influencing Hollywood's power dynamics.
During the McCarthy era, Hopper became known for her anti-communist views and was vocal about naming alleged communists in Hollywood. Her columns fed into the growing hysteria of the time, fueling the witch hunts and blacklisting that plagued the entertainment industry.
Hedda Hopper passed away on February 2, 1966, leaving behind a lasting impact on Hollywood journalism. Her fearless reporting and unapologetic style continue to inspire journalists and gossip columnists to this day. Hopper's legacy as a trailblazer in the entertainment industry lives on, solidifying her status as a true icon of Hollywood gossip.