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The Hepburn style

Katharine Hepburn, who died on Sunday, was a unique American icon.

Date published: 7/1/2003

One-of-a-kind Kate

NO ONE WHO saw her could ever forget those high cheekbones, the broad, sweeping forehead, those piercing eyes, her auburn hair, the elegance of her gait. She was femininity, grace, power, and passion all wrapped up in one commanding person. And when Katharine Hepburn died Sunday at age 96, America lost an icon.

Born in an outspoken, freethinking New England family, Ms. Hepburn decided early on to pursue an acting career. She followed her dream relentlessly. By 1932 she was a star.

And what a star. From her portrayal of heiress Tracy Lord in "The Philadelphia Story" to her role opposite Henry Fonda in "On Golden Pond," Ms. Hepburn achieved what eludes all but a few in any calling: a five-decade career of both substance and style.

Athletic, independent, and intelligent, Ms. Hepburn was able to cast a different role for women, one not limited to shapely helplessness and coy smiles. A formidable character on and off the stage, she was perhaps at her best when playing opposite Spencer Tracy. Her high-strung peppery temper pitted against his steely strength in movies such as "Adam's Rib" and "Pat and Mike" plays well even today.

In her own words, Katharine Hepburn was a "madly irritating person." But someday, she said, she'd be gone and then "they'll miss me, like an old monument. Like the Flatiron Building."

They will. No.

Are.

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Date published: 7/1/2003