Janet Leigh

Date of Birth: July 6, 1927

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Date of Death: October 3, 2004

Biography

Janet Leigh was an acclaimed American actress, singer, dancer, and author, best known for her role in Alfred Hitchcock’s psychological thriller *Psycho* (1960). Born Jeanette Helen Morrison on July 6, 1927, in Merced, California, Leigh’s rise to fame was marked by her versatility and striking beauty. She was discovered by actress Norma Shearer, who saw a photograph of Leigh while visiting ski resorts where Leigh’s father worked. Her film debut came in 1947 with *The Romance of Rosy Ridge*. Leigh enjoyed a prolific career spanning over five decades, appearing in numerous films such as *Little Women* (1949), *Holiday Affair* (1949), *Scaramouche* (1952), and *The Manchurian Candidate* (1962). However, her role as Marion Crane in *Psycho* remains her most iconic, earning her a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination. In addition to her film career, Leigh made several television appearances and authored four books, including the memoir *There Really Was a Hollywood* and a novel *House of Destiny*. Janet Leigh passed away on October 3, 2004, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood’s most memorable leading ladies.

5 Interesting Facts about Janet Leigh

1. Janet Leigh’s real name was Jeanette Helen Morrison. She was given her screen name by MGM studio executives.

2. Her role in *Psycho* was so convincing that she developed a lifelong fear of showers.

3. Leigh was married four times, most notably to actor Tony Curtis, with whom she had two daughters.

4. She was a talented singer and dancer, often showcasing these skills in musical films.

5. Leigh was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Janet Leigh

1. “I don’t know what it is I exude. But whatever it is, it’s whatever I am!”

2. “I never worked with a stinker. How great is that!”

3. “Psycho gave me very wrinkled skin. I was in that shower for seven days—70 setups.”

4. “The dream factory of that time was so much fun.”

5. “You have to believe in love and marry people that you really think can be your partner, and you can be theirs.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of her career, Janet Leigh’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million.

Children

Janet Leigh had two daughters with Tony Curtis: Kelly Curtis, born on June 17, 1956, and Jamie Lee Curtis, born on November 22, 1958. Both daughters followed in their parents’ footsteps and pursued careers in acting.