A new series by Mary Moloney
In 1934, she was an eager young newcomer to feature films, soon she would be acknowledged as a talented beauty on her way to success, then came Hollywood, the awards, glamour, and adoration of millions.
The American Film Institute ranked her fourth amongst the greatest stars in the history of movies, behind Katherine Hepburn, Bette Davis, and Audrey Hepburn.
Her name: Ingrid Bergman.
Born in Stockholm, in August, 1915, to Justus and Friedel Bergman, of their three children, only Ingrid survived. When her mother passed away, Ingrid became the centre of her father’s life and the subject of movies made on each of her birthdays. She learned to view the camera as a friend through him, as he encouraged her artistic talents.
Her father wanted her to be a great opera singer, but Ingrid wanted to be an actress.
At 13, she lost her father, and her aunt Ellen took Ingrid in, but she too died within months.
When Ingrid was 15 years old, she accompanied a friend, to a film studio – where she got a job as an extra. Two years later Ingrid obtained a scholarship to attend Stockholm’s Royal Dramatic Theatre and Drama School. Eager to pursue her dreams, 18-year-old Ingrid left the drama school to make films.
Her first speaking role came in the film The Count of the Monk’s Bridge. Other roles quickly followed.