Katharine Juliet Ross, the incredibly talented actress known for her role as Elaine in the classic film “The Graduate,” has captivated audiences for decades. Now, at the age of 83, she still exudes true beauty and grace. Join us as we take a look at Katharine Ross’s life, career, and her current appearance at 83.
Katharine Ross was born in Hollywood, California, on January 29, 1940, and her journey to stardom was anything but ordinary. Unlike many Hollywood celebrities, Ross’s parents were not a part of the acting industry.
Her father, Dudley, was a U.S. Navy commander and an Associated Press correspondent, which led to frequent relocations for the family. From Virginia to California, they finally settled in Walnut Creek, just outside of San Francisco, where Katharine grew up and attended Las Lomas High School. In 1957, she proudly received her diploma.
It was during her time at Santa Rosa Junior College that Katharine Ross discovered her passion for acting, a turning point that would shape her future. She participated in her first theatrical performances in the school’s production of “The King and I” and realized that acting was her true calling. Ross made the brave decision to leave college after a year and moved into a small apartment above a grocery store. She applied to The Actors Workshop in San Francisco to pursue her dreams.
Ross dedicated three years to honing her craft at The Actors Workshop and gradually started landing small roles in TV shows. Her talent as an actor and her ability to impress in auditions earned her the reputation of being the “queen of the screen tests.” She played various characters, including an innocent teen, a hardened criminal, and a compassionate clubfoot on the hit show “Gunsmoke.”
During this time, she met her first husband, Joel Fabiani, whom she married in 1960. But Ross’s life was not all glitz and glamour. She faced the harsh realities of the industry, enduring abuse and exploitation like many others during the tumultuous 1960s.
When it comes to her career-defining role in “The Graduate,” Katharine Ross recalls the moment she first met Dustin Hoffman, who played the lead. She remembers thinking, “Oh my God – this guy is dressed all in black, and he is white as a sheet.” Little did she know that this film would become one of the most significant milestones in her career.
After the success of “The Graduate,” Ross continued to shine, starring in notable movies like “Shenandoah” alongside James Stewart and “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.” Throughout these years, she faced personal challenges, going through multiple marriages. It wasn’t until she met Sam Elliott, her fifth husband and beloved actor, that she found true happiness.
Sam Elliott, who played alongside Ross in “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” always had a crush on her but kept his distance, thinking he was just a movie extra. Ten years later, they reunited on the set of “The Legacy” and sparks flew. They finally got married in 1979 and have been together for over 40 years, enjoying a loving and supportive partnership.
Ross’s career took a backseat in recent years, but she discovered a passion for writing and has released several children’s books. She continues to lead a fulfilling life, splitting her time between residences in Oregon and California with Sam Elliott by her side.
The extraordinary journey of Katharine Ross serves as a testament to her incredible talent and strength. Despite the ups and downs, she has remained resilient and has achieved enduring success in both her personal and professional life. Today, at the age of 83, she continues to inspire and amaze us all.
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