Why Audrey Hepburn Nearly Turned Down Her Last Movie Role
Audrey Hepburn, celebrated for her quiet elegance, almost declined her final film with Steven Spielberg. Yet, the experience left her so fulfilled she said she’d gladly work with him again. Spielberg, in turn, called their collaboration a career highlight.
Audrey Hepburn’s name conjures images of timeless style and poise, but behind the scenes, she was far from the bold, larger-than-life persona many imagine. Instead, Hepburn was known for her understated confidence and gentle presence, a stark contrast to the dazzling characters she portrayed on screen. Her legacy has grown into something almost mythical, yet the real woman was reserved, letting her performances speak for her. Many modern actors cite her as a guiding light, and whenever comparisons arise, it ’s as if a rare star has appeared.
Living Up to an Icon
Natalie Portman, for example, has often been compared to Hepburn, especially after channeling Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. When Portman graced the cover of Harper’s Bazaar in 2006, dressed in a style reminiscent of Hepburn, she admitted feeling “very elegant.” Still, she was quick to downplay any direct comparison, saying,
“I mean, you can’t possibly measure up to Audrey Hepburn. But the elegance that she exuded was transmitted to the dress, you know, the feeling, the emotion of it.”
That sense of grace was something Hepburn herself saw as an extension of her introverted nature. Taking on the role of Holly was one of her greatest challenges, precisely because the character was so outgoing. She once confided to her agent, Kurt Frings,
“Holly is so contrary to me. She frightens me. This part called for an extroverted character. I am an introvert.”
Hepburn often wrestled with self-doubt, what we’d now call imposter syndrome.
A Reluctant Return to the Screen
It’s surprising to learn that this uncertainty almost kept her from accepting her final film role in Steven Spielberg’s Always. By that point, many assumed she had retired, so her appearance was a delightful shock to fans and the film world. Ultimately, she found the experience so rewarding that she would have jumped at the chance to work with Spielberg again. Reflecting on the project, she said,
“I loved it, and I wouldn’t mind if he asked me again, like next summer. I’d be right back. I had really one of the best times of my life.”
The admiration was mutual. Spielberg considered working with Hepburn a highlight of his career. He had written her a letter, unsure if she’d accept, and was amazed when she agreed. The significance of their collaboration only grew with time, especially as it became clear this would be her final screen appearance. Even in a small role, she brought her signature magnetism and left an indelible impression, carrying herself with the same quiet confidence and elegance that defined her career—even if, deep down, she was still wrestling with her own insecurities.