Eva Marie Saint, a delicate and graceful actress who garnered an Academy Award for her debut film, “On the Waterfront,” and shared the screen with Cary Grant in Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller “North by Northwest,” has passed away at the age of 102.
The news of Saint’s death at her residence in Los Angeles was confirmed by family representative Jeff Sanderson on Tuesday. Her illustrious acting career extended well into her 90s.
Saint’s remarkable entry into Hollywood was marked by her role as the love interest of Marlon Brando’s character in “On the Waterfront,” which earned her an Oscar. At the Academy Awards ceremony, while pregnant with her first child, she humorously quipped, “I think I may have the baby right here,” as she accepted her award from Frank Sinatra. Her son was born just two days later.
Following her success with “On the Waterfront,” Saint chose a path of independence, declining studio contracts and turning down opportunities to capitalize on her newfound fame. She prioritized family time, welcoming her son Darrell shortly after her Oscar win and later having a daughter named Laurette in 1958.
Despite her selective approach, Saint’s career continued to flourish. She notably starred in Hitchcock’s “North by Northwest,” where she portrayed a spy who falls in love with Cary Grant’s character. This role came at the encouragement of her husband, Jeffrey Hayden, a TV and stage director, whom she credited for his support.
Saint’s career saw a transition to television in the 1970s, and she enjoyed a resurgence in the 1980s with roles in popular sitcoms and films. Notable appearances include playing Cybill Shepherd’s mother in “Moonlighting” and Tom Hanks’s mother in “Nothing in Common.” She also won an Emmy for her role in the miniseries “People Like Us” and continued acting in films well into the 21st century.
Married to Jeffrey Hayden for 65 years until his passing in 2016, Saint’s legacy extends beyond her acting career. Born on July 4, 1924, in Newark, New Jersey, she initially aspired to be a teacher but found her calling in acting during her time at Bowling Green State University. Her talent and dedication led her to a successful career in television and film, earning her a place among Hollywood’s iconic stars.
Throughout her life, Saint remained a steadfast advocate for organized labor, leaving a lasting impact on generations of union members. Her contributions to the entertainment industry and her enduring legacy will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.