At the age of 90, acclaimed actress and Oscar winner Shirley MacLaine is reflecting on her extensive career with a playful spirit. While reviewing photographs from her time in the industry, many of which are in black and white, she humorously asked, “Where are the nude ones?”
Recollecting a particular image of herself perched on the hood of a Cadillac at Paramount Studios, she remarked, “Here, I’m just trying to be coy, on purpose. Jesus. What a jerk!” In another image, she expressed curiosity about how her legs looked, confidently stating, “Well, I was born with good legs.”
MacLaine has always possessed a charming allure, showcasing her talents as a singer, dancer, and actress. Her charisma caught the attention of many Hollywood stars, including Dean Martin, whom she fondly remembers as the funniest person she ever met. Although she had a crush on him, she decided against pursuing a romantic relationship, fearing it might diminish his humor, which she cherished.
Her home in Santa Fe displayed what she called her “Wall of Life,” a collection of photographs featuring hundreds of influential figures from her past, including fellow entertainers and politicians. Recently, she compiled these memories into a photographic memoir titled “The Wall of Life.”
Born in Virginia to educators and the older sister of Oscar-winning director Warren Beatty, MacLaine had a unique path to stardom. She changed her last name to her middle name and moved to New York to pursue dancing before even finishing high school. She attributes her success to two teachers who encouraged her to explore acting.
MacLaine’s journey began seriously when she became the understudy in the original Broadway production of “The Pajama Game,” landing her first major role after star Carole Haney was injured. Her performance caught the eye of Alfred Hitchcock, who cast her in her film debut, “The Trouble with Harry.”
She fondly recalls her time with Hitchcock, joking about her growing appetite due to his extensive lunches. Additionally, she shares a controversial moment with producer Hal Wallis, who made a bold move upon their first meeting, leaving her feeling uncomfortable.
Married to businessman Steve Parker, whom she calls the love of her life, they maintained a famously open marriage, with MacLaine often in New York and Parker living in Japan with their daughter, Sachi. Known for her unconventional approach to motherhood, she’s candid about her past relationships and her feelings about attractiveness.
When accepting her Oscar for “Terms of Endearment,” she humorously acknowledged her chemistry with Jack Nicholson, recalling a specific scene that captured her admiration for him.
Throughout her career, MacLaine has continued to take on significant roles that resonate with her age and personality, such as performances in “Steel Magnolias” and “Downton Abbey.” Even in her 80s, she contributed to popular shows like “Only Murders in the Building.”
Believing she has lived multiple past lives, MacLaine embraces her current experiences, feeling connected to the legacy of those who have passed, including Cecil B. DeMille. She relishes her life in Santa Fe, drawn to its antique charm, which she feels reflects her own essence.
Although aware of the passage of time, MacLaine is unafraid of death, expressing curiosity about the afterlife and a desire to experience it. For now, she remains active and engaged, not planning to go anywhere anytime soon.