Eva Marie Saint, a slender and fair actress who earned an Academy Award for her debut film, “On the Waterfront,” and starred alongside Cary Grant in Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller “North by Northwest,” has passed away at the age of 102, as confirmed by family spokesperson Jeff Sanderson.
Saint, known for her acting career that extended well into her 90s, passed away at her residence in Los Angeles on Tuesday.
Her remarkable Hollywood debut was as the romantic interest of Marlon Brando’s character in “On the Waterfront,” a role that earned her an Oscar in 1954. During the awards ceremony, while pregnant with her first child, Saint humorously remarked, “I think I may have the baby right here,” as she accepted the award from Frank Sinatra. Two days later, she gave birth to her son Darrell.
Despite achieving instant fame with her award, Saint chose to maintain her independence in Hollywood. She turned down studio contracts and declined offers to capitalize on her success, opting instead to focus on her family. Her husband, Jeffrey Hayden, a TV and stage director, encouraged her to take on the role in Hitchcock’s “North by Northwest,” a decision that proved pivotal in her career.
Throughout her first decade in Hollywood, Saint appeared in only seven films, rejecting opportunities in other high-profile productions. Her husband’s guidance played a significant role in her career choices, leading her to roles in acclaimed films alongside notable actors like Paul Newman, Elizabeth Taylor, and Warren Beatty.
Transitioning to television in the 1970s, Saint experienced a resurgence in popularity in the 1980s with roles in TV shows like “Moonlighting” and films such as “Nothing in Common.” She continued to work in the 21st century, starring in various movies and earning accolades, including an Emmy for the miniseries “People Like Us.”
Married to Jeffrey Hayden for 65 years until his passing in 2016, Saint remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Born on July 4, 1924, in Newark, New Jersey, she initially aspired to be a teacher but found her passion for acting during college. Her journey from stage to screen was marked by her dedication and talent, earning her a place among Hollywood’s iconic stars.
Saint’s legacy as a versatile and talented actress endures, with her contributions to film and television spanning generations.