Vivien Leigh Laurence Olivier And The Romance Of The Century

Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier were two of the most iconic actors of the 20th century. Their romance captivated the world, earning them the title of "The Romance of the Century". This article explores their fascinating love story and the lasting impact they had on the entertainment industry.

The Meeting and Love at First Sight

Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier first met in 1935 while performing in a production of "Fire Over England". Their chemistry on and off stage was undeniable, and they quickly fell in love. It was a classic case of love at first sight, with both actors being drawn to each other's magnetic personalities and incredible talent.

Their love affair was the talk of the town, and the media couldn't get enough of their glamorous romance. Newspapers and magazines published countless articles about the couple, making them the darlings of the entertainment world. Fans and fellow actors admired their acting prowess as well as their enchanting relationship.

Truly, Madly: Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier, and the Romance of the Century

by Stephen Galloway(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	454 pages
File size	:	49850 KB
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Roles that Defined their Careers

Both Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier had stellar careers as actors. Leigh captivated audiences with her iconic portrayal of Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone with the Wind". Her raw talent and stunning beauty made her one of the most sought-after actresses of her time.

Olivier, on the other hand, became known for his stage performances in plays like "Hamlet" and "Richard III". He was hailed as one of the greatest actors of his generation, with a commanding presence on stage that mesmerized audiences.

As their careers flourished, the couple's love story continued to fascinate the public. People couldn't help but be captivated by the passion and magnetic energy that encompassed their relationship. The couple frequently collaborated on stage and screen, further cementing themselves as the epitome of Hollywood romance.

The Oscars and Legacy

Vivien Leigh won two Academy Awards for Best Actress, the first for her performance in "Gone with the Wind" and the second for "A Streetcar Named Desire". Her groundbreaking roles were a testament to her talent and the mark she left on the film industry.

Laurence Olivier was also an Academy Award winner, both as an actor and director. He received numerous accolades throughout his career, solidifying his status as a true acting legend.

Despite their immense success, their relationship was not without its challenges. The couple faced personal and professional obstacles that put strain on their marriage. However, their love for each other persevered, and even after their divorce in 1960, they remained close friends until Leigh's untimely death in 1967.

The legacy of Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier endures to this day. Their talent, charm, and the intensity of their love continue to inspire actors and romantics around the world. They proved that true love can withstand the test of time, even in the face of adversity.

The romance between Vivien Leigh and Laurence Olivier will forever be remembered as one of the greatest love stories in Hollywood history. Their love, on and off screen, was a true spectacle and an inspiration to many. Their contributions to the entertainment industry were immense, leaving an indelible mark in the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Truly, Madly: Vivien Leigh, Laurence Olivier, and the Romance of the Century

by Stephen Galloway(Kindle Edition)

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	454 pages
File size	:	49850 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

A New York Times Bestseller

"A "well rounded and entertaining" (New York Times) Hollywood biography about the passionate, turbulent marriage of Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh.

In 1934, a friend brought fledgling actress Vivien Leigh to see Theatre Royal, where she would first lay eyes on Laurence Olivier in his brilliant performance as Anthony Cavendish. That night, she confided to a friend, he was the man she was going to marry. There was just one problem: she was already married—and so was he.

TRULY, MADLY is the biography of a marriage, a love affair that still captivates millions, even decades after both actors' deaths. Vivien and Larry were two of the first truly global celebrities – their fame fueled by the explosive growth of tabloids and television, which helped and hurt them in equal measure. They seemed to have it all and yet, in their own minds, they were doomed, blighted by her long-undiagnosed mental-illness, which transformed their relationship from the stuff of dreams into a living nightmare.

Through new research, including exclusive access to previously unpublished correspondence and interviews with their friends and family, author Stephen Galloway takes readers on a bewitching journey. He brilliantly studies their tempestuous liaison, one that took place against the backdrop of two world wars, the Golden Age of Hollywood and the upheavals of the 1960s — as they struggled with love, loss and the ultimate agony of their parting.