Eva Marie Saint, a slender actress who achieved fame by winning an Academy Award for her debut film, “On the Waterfront,” and starring alongside Cary Grant in Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller “North by Northwest,” has passed away at the age of 102 in her Los Angeles residence, as confirmed by family spokesperson Jeff Sanderson.
Saint, known for her enduring acting career that extended well into her 90s, made a remarkable entry into Hollywood as the love interest of Marlon Brando’s character in “On the Waterfront.” Her first appearance at the Academy Awards was unforgettable as she accepted her Oscar while pregnant, jokingly suggesting she might give birth on stage (her son was born two days later).
Despite becoming an instant star with her award-winning performance in 1954, Saint chose a path of independence, rejecting studio contracts to prioritize her family life with her new son and later, daughter. She appeared in a modest number of films in her early Hollywood years, turning down major roles in prominent productions to focus on her personal life.
In a pivotal moment guided by her husband, Jeffrey Hayden, a TV and stage director, Saint agreed to star in Hitchcock’s “North by Northwest,” where she portrayed a spy who falls for Cary Grant’s character. Despite her selective approach, she continued to receive offers for leading roles in notable films alongside acclaimed actors like Paul Newman, Elizabeth Taylor, and Warren Beatty.
Transitioning to television in the 1970s, Saint experienced a resurgence in the 1980s with roles in popular sitcoms and films, earning accolades such as an Emmy for her work in the miniseries “People Like Us.” She maintained her presence in the entertainment industry in the 21st century with appearances in various movies and audio plays.
Throughout her career, Saint remained married to Jeffrey Hayden for 65 years until his passing in 2016. Born on July 4, 1924, in Newark, N.J., she initially aimed to become a teacher but found her calling in acting, eventually honing her skills at the Actors Studio under the guidance of renowned figures like Elia Kazan and Lee Strasberg.
Saint’s journey in Hollywood was marked by memorable performances and a legacy that spanned generations, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.