Early Life
Anjelica Huston was born on July 8, 1951, in Santa Monica, California, into a legendary Hollywood family. She is the daughter of John Huston, an acclaimed film director, and Enrica Soma, a ballerina and socialite. Raised in both the United States and Ireland, Huston was exposed to the film industry from an early age but initially pursued modeling and theater before fully committing to acting.
Early Career & Breakthrough
Huston began her career as a model in the late 1960s, working with top fashion photographers like Richard Avedon. Her early acting career included small roles, but it wasn’t until Prizzi’s Honor (1985), directed by her father John Huston, that she had her breakthrough. Her performance as Maerose Prizzi earned her the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, making her part of the first three-generation Oscar-winning family (her grandfather Walter Huston and father John had also won Oscars).
Hollywood Stardom
Following her Oscar win, Huston solidified her status as a Hollywood powerhouse with critically acclaimed roles in:
- The Witches (1990) – Playing the terrifying Grand High Witch in this cult classic adaptation of Roald Dahl’s novel
- The Grifters (1990) – Earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role in this noir crime drama
- The Addams Family (1991) & Addams Family Values (1993) – As the iconic, glamorous Morticia Addams
- Manhattan Murder Mystery (1993) – A Woody Allen film in which she showcased her sharp wit
- Ever After (1998) – Playing the cruel stepmother in this retelling of Cinderella
Later Career & Television
Huston continued to take on a variety of roles in film and television, including:
- Wes Anderson films (The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou (2004))
- 50/50 (2011) – A heartfelt comedy-drama
- TV series Smash (2012-2013) – Playing the tough and ambitious Broadway producer Eileen Rand
She also ventured into directing, helming films such as Bastard Out of Carolina (1996) and Agnes Browne (1999).
Personal Life & Legacy
Huston had a long and well-known relationship with actor Jack Nicholson, though they never married. She later wed sculptor Robert Graham, with whom she remained married until his passing in 2008.
Beyond acting, Huston is a passionate activist, supporting animal rights and various humanitarian causes.
Legacy
With a career spanning over five decades, Anjelica Huston is celebrated for her versatility, commanding presence, and ability to bring both elegance and edge to her roles. She remains one of Hollywood’s most respected and enduring actresses, continuing to inspire generations of performers.
