Top Ten Reasons We Love Julie Andrews

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Top Ten Reasons We Love Julie Andrews

Celebrating Iconic Moments from Julie Andrews’ Illustrious Career

Julie Andrews Turns 90: A Life of Accomplishments

As they recall the iconic roles in “Mary Poppins” and “The Sound of Music,” fans around the world will soon celebrate the 90th birthday of Dame Julie Andrews on October 1. Known for her impeccable artistic contributions and the numerous awards she has garnered, Andrews has also cherished an extensive family life. She is the proud matriarch of three children, nine grandchildren, and a great-grandchild.

Born Julia Elizabeth Wells in Surrey, England, in 1935, Andrews’s parents divorced shortly after World War II began. Though her childhood had its challenges, her innate talent was undeniable, leading her to start performing professionally at 12 years old. Her illustrious career includes a recent role voicing Lady Whistledown in the hit series “Bridgerton,” and she’s lending her unmatched voice to a new audio adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice” set for release as a podcast.

A Glimpse into Julie Andrews’ Stellar Journey

  • Royal Debut: In 1948, a young Andrews performed for King George VI and Queen Elizabeth at the Royal Variety Performance in London.
  • Exceptional Vocal Talent: Renowned for her vocal abilities from a young age, Andrews’s voice once had the power to make dogs howl from miles away.
  • Passionate Gardener: A hybrid tea rose is named after Andrews, reflecting her love for gardening.
  • Supporting New Talent: Declining a cameo in “Mary Poppins Returns,” she encouraged Emily Blunt to shine as the new Mary Poppins.
  • Family Dedication: After welcoming her first daughter, Emma, she completed her family by adopting two daughters from Vietnam.
  • Overcoming Setbacks: After a vocal surgery in 1997, Andrews’s singing career faced challenges, but she returned to the screen in “The Princess Diaries 2” with a specially designed song.
  • Championing Literacy: During the 2020 pandemic, Andrews launched a podcast with her daughter Emma to promote children’s literature.

Iconic Roles in a Storied Career

In the Broadway production of “My Fair Lady,” Andrews played the role of Eliza Doolittle but was passed over for the film adaptation, which starred Audrey Hepburn. This decision led Andrews to her breakthrough film role in “Mary Poppins,” earning her an Oscar for Best Actress.

Though she encountered a hair color mishap before filming “The Sound of Music,” the lighter shade became an iconic aspect of her portrayal of Maria, further cementing the film’s enduring legacy.

Julie Andrews’ Legacy and Future Endeavors

From her award-winning performances to her contributions to early childhood education through literature, Andrews’s impact extends beyond her filmography. Her partnership with her daughter in both writing and podcasting highlights not only her artistic talents but also her commitment to family and education.

As we celebrate her 90th birthday, fans can look forward to listening to the new “Pride and Prejudice” podcast, further showcasing the legendary talents of Julie Andrews.