Hedda Hopper

Date of Birth: May 2, 1885

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Date of Death: February 1, 1966

Biography

Hedda Hopper, born Elda Furry, was an American actress and gossip columnist who became one of the most influential figures in Hollywood during the early to mid-20th century. Born on May 2, 1885, in Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania, she started her career on stage before transitioning to silent films in the early 1910s. Over her career, she appeared in more than 120 films. However, it was her work as a gossip columnist that truly cemented her legacy. In 1938, Hopper began writing a column for the Los Angeles Times, which quickly became a must-read for those in the industry and fans alike. Her sharp wit, caustic comments, and insider knowledge made her both feared and revered in Hollywood. Hopper’s influence extended beyond her column; she appeared on radio and television, maintaining her status as a gatekeeper of Hollywood news until her death on February 1, 1966.

5 Interesting Facts about Hedda Hopper

1. Hedda Hopper originally pursued a career on the stage, appearing in Broadway productions before transitioning to film.

2. She was known for her extravagant hats, which became a trademark of her public persona.

3. Hopper’s rivalry with fellow gossip columnist Louella Parsons was legendary and often made headlines itself.

4. She published several books, including her autobiography “From Under My Hat” in 1952.

5. Hopper was a staunch conservative and used her column to support anti-communist sentiments during the Red Scare.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hedda Hopper

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

2. “In Hollywood, you can’t be an artist without a public.”

3. “Celebrities meet to discuss the pressing matters of the day—like what color nail polish to use.”

4. “You had to stand in line to hate him.”

5. “I can wear a hat or take it off, but either way, it’s a conversation piece.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of her career, Hedda Hopper’s net worth was estimated to be around $2 million, equivalent to about $15 million today when adjusted for inflation.