Audrey Hepburn Birthday: Facts, Quotes About Givenchy’s Muse

It is Audrey Hepburn’s birthday today! The film and fashion icon would have turned 88 years old May 4, Thursday.

The Belgian-born British actress was known for her iconic performance in “Breakfast At Tiffany’s.” She was also fashion designer Hubert de Givenchy’s muse.

After she retired from acting, Hepburn dedicated her life to Unicef. She died aged 63 in Vaud, Switzerland, due to a rare form of abdominal cancer in 1993. Following her death, Gregory Peck — who acted with her in the 1953 romantic comedy “Roman Holiday” tearfully recited her favorite poem "Unending Love" by Rabindranath Tagore on camera.

Following are some facts and quotes about Hepburn, gathered from Everything Audrey, Biography and Brainy Quote.

• The Belgian-born British actress was training as a dental assistant before French novelist Colette spotted her and wanted her to play the title role in 1951 Broadway play “Gigi.” The play proved to be her big break.

For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.

• Hepburn was afraid of water. While shooting for 1967 movie “Two For The Road,” the crew members were in the pool to hold her after she had to be thrown in the pool for one scene. This was the only way Hepburn could do the shot.

The beauty of a woman is not in a facial mode but the true beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It is the caring that she lovingly gives the passion that she shows. The beauty of a woman grows with the passing years.

• She was known to be an introvert and once said: “I have to be alone very often. I’d be quite happy if I spent from Saturday night until Monday morning alone in my apartment. That’s how I refuel.”

I was born with an enormous need for affection, and a terrible need to give it.

• Her favorite color was cyan.

I decided, very early on, just to accept life unconditionally; I never expected it to do anything special for me, yet I seemed to accomplish far more than I had ever hoped. Most of the time it just happened to me without my ever seeking it.

• During her growing years, she witnessed World War II. She became a courier and raised money for the Dutch Resistance at the time.

I heard a definition once: Happiness is health and a short memory! I wish I'd invented it, because it is very true.

• Hepburn had a deer as her pet. In the late 1950s, she worked on the movie “Green Mansions” that involved a fawn. Just so it could become comfortable with her, the animal trainer told her to take the young deer home and look after it.

The 'Third World' is a term I don't like very much because we're all one world. I want people to know that the largest part of humanity is suffering.