Julie Andrews

Overview

Dame Julie Andrews, born Julia Elizabeth Wells, is a celebrated English actress, singer, and author whose career has spanned over seven decades. From her early start as a child prodigy with an extraordinary vocal range to her iconic roles in film and theatre, Andrews has captivated audiences worldwide. This timeline highlights significant moments in her life and career, showcasing her enduring talent and contribution to the performing arts.

Main Milestones

Birth in Walton-on-Thames, England

October 1, 1935

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.

Developing a Remarkable Vocal Range

Late 1940s - Early 1950s

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.

Broadway Debut in 'The Boy Friend'

1954

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.

Starring in 'My Fair Lady'

1956

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'.

Iconic Role in 'Mary Poppins'

1964

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.

Starring in 'The Sound of Music'

1965

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.

Diversifying Her Career

Late 1960s - 1980s

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.

Vocal Cord Surgery and Loss of Singing Voice

1997

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.

Return to Film in 'The Princess Diaries'

2001

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.

Author and Voice Acting

2000s - Present

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.

Damehood

2000

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.