Janet Leigh was born on July 6, 1927 in Merced, California. She showed an early interest in the arts, particularly music, and went on to study music and psychology at the University of the Pacific. It was during her time at university that she discovered her passion for acting, which ultimately led her to pursue a career in Hollywood.
After graduating from the University of the Pacific, Janet Leigh caught the eye of talent scouts from MGM. She signed a contract with the prestigious studio and began her acting career in earnest. Her breakthrough role came in 1951 when she starred alongside Tony Curtis in the film "Houdini." The success of the film catapulted her to stardom, and she quickly became one of Hollywood's most sought-after leading ladies.
Janet Leigh's most iconic role came in 1960 when she starred as Marion Crane in Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller "Psycho." Her performance in the film shocked audiences and solidified her status as a Hollywood legend. She went on to appear in numerous other films, including "The Manchurian Candidate" in 1962 and "The Fog" in 1980.
In 1951, Janet Leigh married fellow actor Tony Curtis. The couple had two daughters together before their divorce in 1962. Despite the end of their marriage, Leigh and Curtis remained on good terms and continued to co-parent their children.
Throughout her long and illustrious career, Janet Leigh amassed over 80 acting credits in film and television. She worked with some of Hollywood's biggest stars, including Charlton Heston and Orson Welles. Her talent and versatility as an actress earned her numerous awards and accolades, cementing her legacy as one of the greats of the silver screen.
Janet Leigh's impact on Hollywood continues to be felt to this day. Her groundbreaking role in "Psycho" set a new standard for the horror genre, and her performances in other films have been praised for their depth and intensity. She remains a beloved figure in the world of cinema, and her influence on future generations of actors is undeniable.