Born in Tokyo in 1916 to British parents, Olivia de Havilland’s life was destined for greatness. After moving to California as a child, she became one of Hollywood’s most iconic stars—known not just for her beauty, but for her intelligence, strength, and independence.
She rose to fame in the 1930s starring alongside Errol Flynn in swashbuckling classics like Captain Blood and The Adventures of Robin Hood, where their on-screen chemistry was electric. But Olivia wanted more than just romantic roles—she sought depth.
Her performance as Melanie in Gone with the Wind (1939) showed her quiet power, earning her an Oscar nomination. In the 1940s, she proved…
Off-screen, Olivia made history by challenging the Hollywood studio system. In 1943, she sued Warner Bros. over unfair contract extensions—and won. The ruling, known as the “De Havilland Law,” became a landmark victory for actors’ rights, changing the industry forever.
In the 1950s, she left Hollywood for a peaceful life in Paris, appearing in occasional films while living with grace and privacy. Despite a long-standing rivalry with her sister, fellow Oscar winner Joan Fontaine, Olivia stayed poised and dignified.
Named a Dame at 101 and living to 104, Olivia de Havilland wasn’t just a legendary actress—she was a trailblazer who fought for creative freedom and dignity in an industry that didn’t always offer it. Her legacy is one of courage, class, and lasting impact.