Julia Elizabeth Wells was born in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, England. Her early life was marked by a tumultuous family situation, with her mother marrying Ted Andrews, though her biological father remained unknown for many years. This early environment, while challenging, arguably contributed to her strong work ethic and resilience.

Under the tutelage of her stepfather, Ted Andrews, a vaudeville performer, Julia (soon to be known as Julie Andrews) began rigorous vocal training. She developed an extraordinary four-octave range, allowing her to perform challenging operatic arias and earning her the reputation of a child prodigy. This intensive training laid the foundation for her future success in musical theatre.

At the age of 19, Julie Andrews made her Broadway debut in the American premiere of the British musical comedy, 'The Boy Friend'. This marked a significant turning point in her career, instantly establishing her as a rising star on the American stage. The show was a success, running for over 400 performances and cementing Andrews's reputation for charming stage presence and vocal prowess.

Julie Andrews originated the role of Eliza Doolittle in the Broadway production of 'My Fair Lady'. Although critically acclaimed and adored by audiences (the show ran for years), she lost out on the film role to Audrey Hepburn. This was a blow at the time, however it may have indirectly propelled her into her next iconic role, 'Mary Poppins'.

Andrews achieved international stardom with her role as Mary Poppins in the Disney film of the same name. Her performance garnered her the Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her position as a major Hollywood star. The film's success and enduring popularity made her a household name and secured her place in cinematic history.

Following the triumph of 'Mary Poppins,' Andrews starred in 'The Sound of Music,' another immense box office hit. Playing Maria von Trapp, she further cemented her image as a beloved and versatile performer. The film became one of the highest-grossing movies of all time and remains a cultural phenomenon.

While maintaining a strong presence in musicals, Andrews diversified her career by taking on more dramatic roles in films like 'Hawaii' and 'Torn Curtain.' She also explored television with 'The Julie Andrews Hour', demonstrating her range and willingness to experiment beyond her established image.

Andrews underwent surgery to remove non-cancerous nodules from her vocal cords. Unfortunately, the procedure resulted in permanent damage, severely impacting her singing voice. This was a devastating blow to her career, forcing her to re-evaluate her artistic path and explore new avenues for her talents.

Andrews made a triumphant return to the big screen in 'The Princess Diaries,' directed by Garry Marshall. This marked a significant comeback, showcasing her comedic talents and appeal to a new generation of audiences. The film's success led to a sequel, further revitalizing her acting career.

Following her vocal surgery, Andrews successfully transitioned into writing children's books and pursuing voice acting roles. She lent her voice to characters in films such as 'Shrek 2' and 'Despicable Me,' demonstrating her versatility and adaptability. She also co-authored several children's books, showcasing her creativity and storytelling abilities.

In 2000, Julie Andrews was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for services to the performing arts. This prestigious honor recognized her outstanding contributions to theatre and film throughout her illustrious career and solidified her status as a national treasure.