Born the daughter of a musician on November 21, 1945, in Washington, DC, Hawn grew up in suburban Maryland. She began dance lessons at the tender age of three, and by the age of seventeen, was managing a dance studio while studying drama at American University. She danced professionally at the New York World’s Fair (Texas pavilion) in 1964 and went on to appear in the chorus lines of Broadway musical productions such as “Kiss Me Kate”, “Guys and Dolls” and “The Boyfriend.”
Goldie moved to California and her big break came when an agent spotted her dancing on the “Andy Griffith Show” and cast her in “Good Morning World” which was a comedy series that didn’t last very long. But that brought her to early fame on “Laugh In,” Rowan and Martin’s successful comedy variety show of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Although she gained a reputation as somewhat of a ditzy airhead, when given a few lines she proved herself to be a talented performer.
She appeared as a dancer in the film, “The One and Only, Genuine, Original Family Band” (1968) but her acting debut came a year alter when she portrayed Walter Matthau’s mistress in “Cactus Flower” (1969). The role gleaned her an Oscar and alter that year she appeared opposite Peter sellers in “There’s A Girl In My Soup.” She broke away from comedy in 1972 when she appeared in several films that showcased her talent as an actress. These included “Butterflies Are Free,” ”Shampoo” and “Sugarland Express,” which marked the feature-film directorial debut of Steven Spielberg.
Goldie has continued to work throughout the 1980s and 1990s in films of varying quality. She earned her second “Best Actress” nomination for her role in “Private Benjamin.” She has been married twice and has two children (a boy and a girl) by her second husband, comedian Bill Russell. She has one son, Wyatt, with Kurt Russell, and although their union has never been legally sanctioned, it has lasted more than twenty years.
She remains one of the top comic-actresses of today and a very versatile performer.
Goldie, keep up the good work! We love ya!
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