On October 21, 1964, the film adaptation of My Fair Lady premiered in New York City at the Warner Theatre. Starring Rex Harrison as Professor Henry Higgins and Audrey Hepburn as Eliza Doolittle, the movie was a highly anticipated event. Based on the hit Broadway musical, My Fair Lady was a major project for Hollywood, combining lavish sets, beautiful costumes, and the charm of two of the era’s biggest stars.
The story behind the film’s adaptation was as interesting as the movie itself. My Fair Lady was originally a Broadway musical that debuted in 1956, adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion. Rex Harrison played Professor Henry Higgins on stage and returned to the role for the film, but Julie Andrews, who originated the role of Eliza on Broadway, was replaced by Audrey Hepburn for the movie. This casting decision sparked controversy, especially because Hepburn’s singing voice was dubbed by singer Marni Nixon. Nevertheless, the film followed the story of Eliza’s transformation from a poor flower seller into a refined lady under Higgins’ guidance.
The New York premiere was a grand affair, with Hollywood stars and critics turning out in droves to see the film. My Fair Lady was praised for its rich production design, elegant costumes by Cecil Beaton, and Rex Harrison’s outstanding performance. While many applauded Hepburn’s portrayal of Eliza, some were disappointed that her singing voice wasn’t her own, fueling the ongoing debate over whether she was the right choice for the role.
Despite the controversy, My Fair Lady was a huge success. It went on to win eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for George Cukor, and Best Actor for Rex Harrison. Audrey Hepburn, however, did not receive an Oscar nomination, which added to the discussion about her role in the film.
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Today, My Fair Lady remains a beloved classic, known for its timeless story, stunning visuals, and unforgettable performances. Its premiere on October 21, 1964, marked a milestone in movie history, as the film adaptation of a stage musical became a Hollywood masterpiece that continues to enchant audiences to this day.