Emma Thompson Criticizes Audrey Hepburn’s Acting Skills

Renowned Hollywood figure Audrey Hepburn has been celebrated for her contributions to the film industry, not only for her on-screen performances but also for her iconic fashion sense.

However, according to Oscar-winning actor and writer Emma Thompson, Hepburn's acting abilities should not be the focal point when reflecting on her legacy.

Thompson's remarks about Hepburn's portrayal of Eliza Doolittle in the 1964 film adaptation of My Fair Lady stirred controversy and sparked discussions within the entertainment sphere.

During an interview with The Hollywood Reporter in 2010, Thompson shared her perspective on the potential remake of My Fair Lady that she was working on at the time.

Expressing her excitement about the project, Thompson voiced her reservations about the original film, stating, “I find Audrey Hepburn fantastically twee.”

When questioned about her choice of words, Thompson elaborated on her criticism by defining “twee” as lacking in substance and depth, describing it as mere superficial charm devoid of any substantial impact.

Further delving into her critique, Thompson boldly declared, “She can't sing and she can't really act, I'm afraid.”

By questioning Hepburn's vocal and acting abilities, Thompson offered a candid evaluation of the acclaimed star's performance in the cinematic realm, contrasting the perception of Hepburn's talent with the widespread adoration she received from audiences worldwide.

It is worth noting that in the 1964 rendition of My Fair Lady, many of Eliza's musical numbers were actually performed by Marni Nixon, not Hepburn herself.

Despite this behind-the-scenes revelation, Hepburn's filmography boasts a collection of timeless classics such as Breakfast at Tiffany's and Roman Holiday, the latter of which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress and multiple nominations throughout her illustrious career.

Tragically, Hepburn passed away in 1993 at the age of 63, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of cinema.

Thompson's candid remarks regarding Hepburn's acting prowess garnered significant attention and prompted both support and backlash from individuals within the entertainment industry and beyond.

In a subsequent interview with the Chicago Tribune, Thompson defended her stance, emphasizing her preference for actresses with a more assertive presence on screen, as opposed to what she perceived as a lack of intensity in Hepburn's performances.

Despite her intentions to reimagine My Fair Lady in a more emotionally resonant manner, Thompson's aspirations for the project were ultimately thwarted.

Citing challenges related to securing a director, casting decisions, and rights issues, the modernized version of the beloved musical failed to materialize, as confirmed by Thompson herself in a statement to the Daily Mail in 2014.

The project's cancellation marked the end of a potential reinterpretation that could have offered a fresh perspective on the classic tale.

While Thompson's critique of Hepburn may have stirred controversy and raised eyebrows within the industry, her unwavering honesty and commitment to artistic integrity underscored her dedication to challenging conventional norms and expectations in filmmaking.

As the discourse surrounding Hepburn's legacy continues to evolve, Thompson's perspective serves as a reminder of the nuanced complexities inherent in assessing the artistic merits of iconic figures in cinema.