Shirley MacLaine Opens Up About Working with Audrey Hepburn on The Children’s Hour – The Risks, Boundaries, and Magic!

Shirley MacLaine, an iconic actress known for her own illustrious career in Hollywood, has spoken warmly about her professional and personal relationship with Audrey Hepburn. The two actresses, who shared a deep bond both on and off the screen, first worked together in the groundbreaking 1961 film The Children’s Hour. Through their collaboration, MacLaine developed a lasting admiration for Hepburn, not only for her immense talent but also for her deeply empathetic and caring nature.

Professional Collaboration in The Children’s Hour

MacLaine has often reflected on her time working with Hepburn, particularly on the set of The Children’s Hour, directed by William Wyler. In this film, both actresses portrayed teachers accused of having a lesbian relationship, a topic that was controversial for its time. MacLaine has said she “adored” working with Hepburn, emphasizing how much she valued their professional relationship. The film was notable for its sensitive handling of homosexuality, a subject that was often avoided in Hollywood at the time.

Their shared background in ballet played a significant role in their collaboration. MacLaine mentioned that both she and Hepburn grew up in the ballet world, which allowed them to form a special connection. While MacLaine was a more professional dancer, Hepburn’s earlier ballet training provided a bond that helped them understand each other’s work ethic and artistic approach. MacLaine has expressed that this connection helped them to navigate the film’s difficult and risky themes, creating a genuine on-screen chemistry between them.

However, the sensitive nature of the film’s subject matter meant that some aspects of the story had to be toned down. In the 1996 documentary The Celluloid Closet, MacLaine revealed that she and Hepburn never discussed the lesbian undertones of their characters, possibly to maintain a professional boundary in an era when such topics were not openly discussed. She also shared that some scenes hinting at a romantic relationship between their characters were cut by the director, William Wyler, due to concerns over how audiences would react, underscoring the pressures of addressing such themes in Hollywood at the time.

Personal Friendship and Emotional Connections

Beyond their professional collaboration, MacLaine’s relationship with Hepburn was also one of genuine friendship. MacLaine has spoken fondly of Hepburn’s empathetic and nurturing nature. “Audrey was the kind of person who when she saw someone else suffering tried to take their pain on herself. She was a healer. She knew how to love,” MacLaine reflected in an interview. “You didn’t have to be in constant contact with her to feel you had a friend. We always picked up right where we left off.” This statement, shared on Goodreads, speaks to the deep emotional bond the two women shared. MacLaine’s words highlight Hepburn’s ability to make those around her feel seen and cared for, even if they were not in constant contact.

MacLaine also recounted lighthearted moments from their friendship, revealing a playful side to their relationship. She shared that she taught Hepburn “a little about cussing” while Hepburn, in turn, taught MacLaine “about dressing,” showcasing their closeness and mutual respect for each other’s qualities. These anecdotes reveal not just their professional camaraderie but also the warmth and humor that defined their personal friendship.

Reflections on Fame and Career Choices

In addition to their professional and personal bonds, MacLaine has also reflected on other aspects of her and Hepburn’s careers. One notable moment came when MacLaine admitted in her 2024 book The Wall of Life that she regretted turning down the role of Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, a role famously played by Hepburn. MacLaine confessed that she didn’t want to worry about weight for the fittings and didn’t find the script strong enough. This decision highlights a different side to their professional journeys, with MacLaine reflecting on a choice that Hepburn famously made her own with elegance and grace.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy of Friendship and Admiration

Shirley MacLaine’s reflections on Audrey Hepburn offer a rare and intimate glimpse into the deep bond they shared, both as colleagues and as friends. From their professional collaboration in The Children’s Hour to their personal moments of warmth and humor, MacLaine’s memories paint a picture of a relationship built on mutual respect, empathy, and admiration. Hepburn’s legacy, not just as a film icon but as a compassionate friend, continues to live on through MacLaine’s heartfelt recollections, reminding us of the quiet strength and enduring impact of their friendship.