Elegant Facts About Audrey Hepburn, The Iconic Ingénue
To this day, Audrey Hepburn defines grace, elegance, and humility. The incredibly talented and beautiful actress dominated the silver screen in the 1950s and 1960s with classic roles in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Roman Holiday, and so many more. However, Hepburn was far more than a pretty face. In fact, her history is much darker than most people know.
1. She Didn't Have A Home
Born in Brussels on May 4, 1929, Audrey Ruston was a far cry away from the glittering world of Hollywood. In the beginning, she lived a rootless existence, with her family moving incessantly for her father's work. As they flitted from London to Arnhem and beyond, little Audrey learned a whopping six languages. However, as privileged as her life undoubtedly was, her family had a twisted dark side.
2. She Felt The Sting Of Abandonment
See, Audrey's parents wholeheartedly believed in the growing Nazi regime and even traveled to Germany to attend marches and show their support. In fact, her father Joseph was so deeply entrenched in his prejudiced beliefs—he did the unthinkable. In 1935, he abandoned Audrey and her mother, fleeing to London where he could devote more of his time to Fascist pursuits.
His abrupt departure from her life cut Audrey to the core—and her reaction was downright heartbreaking.
3. She Faced Unending Trauma
In looking back on this harrowing chapter of her life, Audrey confessed that her father's disappearing act was "the most traumatic event of my life." But that wasn't all. After he left, she lived in Kent where she attended boarding school. Despite having visitation rights, her father never came to see her. Audrey's isolation was tantamount.
While the other children reunited with their parents during weekends and holidays, she always found herself terribly alone—and it was only going to get worse.
4. She Flew Into The Eye Of The Storm
When WWII finally descended, Audrey's life experienced the greatest upheaval of all. Thinking that she'd be safest in the Netherlands, her parents sent her away. In fact, it was her father who brought her to the airport in 1939...And after that fateful day, she wouldn't see him for years. But while Audrey thought she was headed toward a safe haven, she was actually flying straight into the eye of the storm.
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