Though famed for her star power in old Hollywood, Hedy Lamarr was more than just a pretty face. Receiving praise for her acting chops, the actress proved she was just as smart as she was beautiful, spearheading one of World War II's most important inventions all while navigating a legendary film career.
From her big-screen breakout to her final years, here are 10 photos remembering the bombshell and genius that was Hedy Lamarr.
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Hedy Lamarr
Actress. Inventor. Trailblazer. Despite Hedy Lamarr’s stunning looks, the actress refused to choose between beauty and brains, making an impact in not only pop culture, but also shaping the world with her tech prowess.
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Early Years
Born in Vienna, then part of Austria-Hungary, in 1914, Lamarr spent her early years honing both her stage presence and her inventing skills. During her pre-teen years, Lamarr studied film and won a beauty contest all while learning about technology from her father. The pair would discuss advances together while out on walks.
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Vienna Waits For Her
Lamarr’s first foray into the world of film came in 1930, when she landed a job at a local film studio after forging a note from her mom. Supervising scripts, Lamarr ultimately made her way on set, picking up gigs as an extra in 'Money on the Street' and later, landing a speaking role in 'Storm in a Water Glass.'
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Ecstasy
Lamarr’s first leading lady moment came in 1933, when the then-teen starred in 'Ecstasy.' Sparking controversy with its steamy scenes, the actress claimed she was “duped” into filming the movie's more divisive moments.
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Heading West
After a roughly four-year-long marriage, Lamarr decided to try her luck in more mainstream markets, heading first to London where she met Louis B. Mayer, the head of MGM Studios. She nabbed a $500 per-week contract and was touted throughout Hollywood as "world's most beautiful woman.”
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Big Screen Debut
Upon making her American film debut in 1938’s 'Algiers,' this superlative quickly proved to be no exaggeration. "everyone gasped,” one audience member reportedly said of seeing the star on the big screen. “Lamarr's beauty literally took one's breath away."
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Film Star…
In the years following, Lamarr would cement her status as a big-screen staple, leading films like ‘Boom Town,’ and ‘White Cargo.’ Often given few lines due to her gorgeous looks, Lamarr began reigniting her passion for inventing to help her pass the time.
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… and Radio Star
Creating the concept of “frequency hopping” for the U.S. Navy during World War II, Lamarr’s impact on the tech world has stood the test of time. Her contributions to radio technology ultimately informed a whole host of modern devices, including GPS, Bluetooth, and even Wi-Fi.
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Later Success
After changing the world with her wartime invention, Lamarr headed back to the big screen, starring in her most successful film, 1949’s ‘Samson and Delilah.’ The film was nominated for five different Academy Awards, with audiences in the UK dubbing Lamarr’s work the tenth "best screen performance by an actress” a few years later in 1951.
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Lasting legacy
Though Lamarr’s later years were filled with struggle — including a shoplifting arrest in the '60s and estrangement from her son — the actress’ legacy is still defined by her most notable feat: Her defiant shattering of the glass ceiling.
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