Hedda Hopper

Date of Birth: May 2, 1885

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: February 1, 1966

Biography

Hedda Hopper, born Elda Furry on May 2, 1885, in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, was an American actress and one of Hollywood’s most influential gossip columnists. She began her career in the silent film era, appearing in more than 120 films between 1916 and 1942. After a moderately successful acting career, Hopper reinvented herself as a powerful gossip columnist, writing for the Los Angeles Times and other publications from the late 1930s until her death. Her column, “Hedda Hopper’s Hollywood,” was famous for its biting and often controversial content. Hopper was known for her feuds with other celebrities and columnists, most notably Louella Parsons. She was also known for her flamboyant personality and elaborate hats, which became her trademark. Hedda Hopper passed away on February 1, 1966, in Hollywood, California.

5 Interesting Facts about Hedda Hopper

1. Hedda Hopper’s original name was Elda Furry, but she changed it to Hedda after a theater producer suggested it would be more memorable.

2. She began her acting career on Broadway before transitioning to silent films, where she worked alongside stars like Charlie Chaplin and Mary Pickford.

3. Hopper’s gossip column had an estimated 35 million readers at its peak, making her one of the most influential figures in Hollywood.

4. She was known for her intense rivalries, most famously with fellow gossip columnist Louella Parsons.

5. Hedda Hopper was an outspoken conservative and used her column to promote her political views, including support for the House Un-American Activities Committee during the Red Scare.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hedda Hopper

1. “Nobody’s interested in sweetness and light.”

2. “In Hollywood, an equitable divorce settlement means each party getting fifty percent of the publicity.”

3. “You had to stand in line to hate her.”

4. “Wise is the woman who rises above her circumstances.”

5. “Hollywood’s a place where they’ll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At her peak, Hedda Hopper’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.

Children

Hedda Hopper had one child, William Hopper, born on January 26, 1915. William followed in his mother’s footsteps and became an actor, best known for his role as Paul Drake in the television series “Perry Mason.”