Katharine Houghton Hepburn was born on May 12, 1907, in Hartford, Connecticut. She was the second of six children born to Thomas Norval Hepburn, a successful urologist, and Katharine Martha Houghton, a strong advocate for women's rights and birth control. Growing up in a progressive household, Hepburn was encouraged to pursue her passions and think for herself.
After attending private schools in Connecticut, Hepburn enrolled at Bryn Mawr College in Pennsylvania. It was during her time at Bryn Mawr that she discovered her love for acting, participating in school plays and productions. Her natural talent and charisma quickly caught the attention of her peers and professors.
After graduating from Bryn Mawr in 1928, Hepburn moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. She made her Broadway debut in 1928 and soon caught the eye of Hollywood producers. In 1932, she made her big screen debut in the film "A Bill of Divorcement," opposite John Barrymore.
Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, Hepburn cemented her status as a leading lady in Hollywood, starring in films such as "Morning Glory," for which she won her first Academy Award for Best Actress. She continued to receive critical acclaim for her performances in films like "The Philadelphia Story" and "Bringing Up Baby."
Despite her success in Hollywood, Hepburn's personal life was tumultuous. She married Ludlow Ogden Smith in 1928, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1934. She later had relationships with actor Spencer Tracy and entrepreneur and filmmaker Howard Hughes.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Hepburn took on challenging roles in classic Shakespeare plays, showcasing her range and versatility as an actress. She continued to deliver powerful performances in films like "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," "The Lion in Winter," and "On Golden Pond," for which she won her fourth and final Academy Award.
Named the greatest actress in Hollywood history by the American Film Institute in 1999, Hepburn left a lasting impact on the film industry. Her bold personality, independent spirit, and fearless approach to her craft inspired generations of actors and actresses.
Katharine Hepburn's career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of film and theater. Her talent, tenacity, and unwavering commitment to her craft have solidified her legacy as one of the greatest actresses of all time.