You don’t win four Oscars for nothing. In this video, we’ll be counting down our picks for the top 10 Katharine Hepburn performances. Widely regarded as one of Hollywood’s most legendary actors, Katharine Hepburn was named the greatest female screen legend by the American Film Institute. With more Oscars to her name than any other actor, Hepburn is undoubtedly one of the greatest entertainers ever to grace the silver screen. Join us as we explore her most memorable roles from an extraordinary career that spanned over sixty years.
#10: Linda Seton – “Holiday” (1938)
In this lighthearted comedy, Cary Grant’s character is engaged to the girl of his dreams, but instead of settling down and getting a job, he wants to take an extended vacation. His wealthy fiancée is appalled, but her eccentric sister, played by Katharine Hepburn, finds the idea enchanting and falls for her would-be brother-in-law. Having understudied the role on Broadway, Hepburn brings a joyous whimsy to the black sheep socialite. Although Grant initially takes center stage, Hepburn steals the show with her spirited performance.
#9: Tess Harding – “Woman of the Year” (1942)
In this 1940s dramedy, Katharine Hepburn stars as Tess Harding, a world-famous journalist who falls in love with a sports reporter. Their relationship faces challenges as her dedication to her career creates conflicts in their home life. Despite an ending that feels dated by modern standards, Hepburn’s powerful performance marked a significant moment for gender equality in Hollywood. “Woman of the Year” was also the first of nine films she made with Spencer Tracy, forming one of cinema’s most iconic duos both onscreen and off, as their real-life romance added depth to their characters.
#8: Amanda Bonner – “Adam’s Rib” (1949)
In this hilarious courtroom comedy, Katharine Hepburn stars as Amanda “Pinky” Bonner, a lawyer defending a woman accused of shooting her unfaithful husband. The twist? Amanda’s husband is the prosecutor. To prepare for her role as the passionate attorney, Hepburn observed real-life L.A. lawyers in action, inspiring her dynamic closing argument. Considered one of the best films featuring the Hepburn-Tracy duo, this legal laugh-fest owes its humor and progressive message to Hepburn’s brilliant and feminist performance.
#7: Josephine ‘Jo’ March – “Little Women” (1933)
Louisa May Alcott’s beloved tale of 19th-century sisters found a perfect adaptation in this film, with Katharine Hepburn shining as Jo March. Practically glowing with life, Hepburn captivates as the spirited writer striving to keep her family together. Her portrayal effectively showcases Jo’s transformation from a lively, hot-tempered girl into a mature adult and successful author. In Hepburn’s capable hands, Jo’s journey is both inspiring and heartfelt, making this performance a standout that has audiences cheering, “Christopher Columbus!”
#6: Eleanor of Aquitaine – “The Lion in Winter” (1968)
In this Oscar-winning period piece, Katharine Hepburn delivers a tour de force performance as Eleanor of Aquitaine, an aging queen embroiled in a fierce power struggle with her estranged husband, Henry II. Faced with the task of choosing an heir among their three sons, Hepburn’s Eleanor becomes a medieval Machiavellian, scheming to ensure her son Richard ascends to the throne. Her portrayal is chillingly cool and wickedly shrewd, earning Hepburn her third Oscar for Best Actress.
#5: Ethel Thayer – “On Golden Pond” (1981)
By 1981, Katharine Hepburn was in her seventies and battling essential tremor, yet her remarkable talent remained undiminished. In this touching drama, she plays Ethel Thayer, an elderly yet spirited woman whose enduring love for her grumpy husband is both heartwarming and inspiring. Hepburn masterfully balances her vivacious personality with moments of gentle subtlety, creating a richly layered character. This performance earned her a fourth and final Oscar, solidifying her legacy as one of cinema’s greatest actors.
#4: Christina Drayton – “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” (1967)
As a champion of liberal causes both onscreen and off, it’s fitting that Katharine Hepburn starred in Stanley Kramer’s groundbreaking film about interracial romance. In “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner,” Hepburn plays Christina Drayton, whose world is turned upside down when her daughter brings home an African-American fiancé. As she and her husband grapple with their own prejudices, Hepburn delivers a heartfelt performance as a mother who ultimately supports her daughter’s decision. This role earned Hepburn another Oscar and was her final film with Spencer Tracy before his death in 1967.
#3: Rose Sayer – “The African Queen” (1951)
In this adventure classic, Katharine Hepburn stars as Rose Sayer, a prim and proper missionary who seeks revenge after German soldiers destroy her mission. Teaming up with a scruffy, drunken Humphrey Bogart, Hepburn’s character evolves from a snobby prude into a resilient and fearless woman ready to take on any challenge. Hepburn’s transformation into a tough, determined heroine is captivating. Filming on location was grueling, with Hepburn enduring dysentery, frequent bouts of vomiting, and even attacks by soldier ants, showcasing her dedication to her craft.
#2: Susan Vance – “Bringing Up Baby” (1938)
In “Bringing Up Baby,” Katharine Hepburn steps away from her usual poised and graceful persona to play the eccentric heiress Susan Vance. Her character is a whirlwind of screwball comedy, leading a hapless paleontologist, played by Cary Grant, on a chaotic adventure involving a yappy dog, a missing brontosaurus bone, and a music-loving leopard. Although the film didn’t perform well at the box office initially, Hepburn’s vibrant energy and impeccable comic timing have since made it a classic of the genre.
Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions:
- Lizzie Curry in “The Rainmaker” (1956)
- Jane Hudson in “Summertime” (1955)
- Eva Lovelace in “Morning Glory” (1933)
- Terry Randall in “Stage Door” (1937)
#1: Tracy Lord – “The Philadelphia Story” (1940)
Katharine Hepburn’s career faced challenges in the 1930s, with the media labeling her “box office poison.” However, her fortunes turned around with “The Philadelphia Story.” Reprising her Broadway role as Tracy Lord, Hepburn captivated critics and audiences alike as the uptight heiress entangled in a comedic love rectangle. Balancing snobbery and sophistication, Hepburn’s portrayal of Tracy’s transformation from a self-righteous socialite to a tender human being earned her an Oscar nomination and solidified her status as a Hollywood icon, making this performance our top pick.
