Adorable Story #21: Grace Kelly

Hollywood Royalty Turned Real-Life Princess

I never say “never,” and I never say “always.”

— Grace Kelly

Grace Kelly photographed by Howell Conant in Montego Bay, Jamaica, 1955 (over the internet, this photo is often mistakenly attributed to Slim Aarons)

From Philadelphia to New York City

Born on November 12, 1929, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Grace was the third of four children to John B. Kelly Sr., a successful businessman and Olympic gold medal-winning rower, and Margaret Katherine Majer, a former model and fashion designer.

Grace was of Irish descent through her paternal side: her paternal grandfather, John Peter Kelly, was born in Drimurla, County Mayo, Ireland, and immigrated to the United States in the late 19th century. He later married Mary Costello, who was also of Irish descent.

Grace was raised in a wealthy, Catholic family and attended the prestigious Ravenhill Academy and Stevens School, both in Philadelphia.

Grace grew up performing, acting in school and community plays in addition to studying ballet. She originally wanted to become a professional ballerina but, at five feet, six inches, she was considered too tall for that career.

She then turned her sights to acting and, against her father’s wishes, continued her education at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA) in New York City. Grace worked her way through school as a commercial model, making 400 USD per week and appearing in a variety of ads (as a way of comparison: at the time, the AADA tuition for an academic year was approximately 500 USD).

After she graduated in 1949, she pursued a career in acting and began auditioning for roles. She wanted to debut on Broadway but her voice was deemed not deep enough for theatre. Grace initially found work in television, appearing in live dramas that were popular during the early 1950s, such as “The Philco Television Playhouse,” “Studio One,” and “Kraft Television Theatre.” These roles helped her establish a reputation as a talented and promising actress.

Her performance in a television production of “The Father” caught the attention of Hollywood producer Stanley Kramer, who offered her a supporting role in the film “High Noon” (1952) alongside Gary Cooper.

Hollywood Stardom

Grace Kelly and Cary Grant on the set of “To Catch a Thief”, directed by Alfred Hitchcock, 1955

This role opened the doors to other significant opportunities, leading to her collaborations with, among others, legendary director Alfred Hitchcock.

Under Hitchcock’s guidance, Kelly starred in three memorable films that made the history of Cinema: