Esteemed actress Eva Marie Saint embraced the thrill of turning 101 on a day already rich with joy — the Fourth of July. Her extraordinary life story added yet another significant chapter, which is far more impactful than any Independence Day celebration. Saint, recognized for gracing iconic Hollywood roles for numerous decades, reached this momentous milestone.
Her impressive acting career spanning the glamorous era of the 1950s and 1960s credits her with memorable performances in cinematic masterpieces. Saint’s filmography includes acclaimed titles such as ‘On the Waterfront,’ ‘North by Northwest,’ and ‘Exodus,’ marking her monumental contribution to the golden age of Hollywood.
Eva Marie Saint’s charisma remained undiminished, even during her twilight years. Her unforgettable cameos in ‘Superman Returns’ and ‘Because of Winn-Dixie’ are evidence of her enduring allure. Despite largely retiring from her acting career, she couldn’t resist making a brief comeback in 2014, lending her voice in the animated series ‘The Legend of Korra.’
In a candid chat before turning a century old, Saint expressed her fondness for leading a simplistic lifestyle. She remarked that despite being 100, it felt nothing like it. She cherished taking leisurely walks, revelling in the charm of baseball games, particularly supporting the Los Angeles Dodgers, and treating herself to quality time with her close circle of family and friends.
‘A good life,’ as she called it, has been her longevity secret. Her journey in the acting world started in the latter part of the 1940s, but it was her breakout success in 1954 that put her on the map. She played a leading role amidst an ensemble cast including Marlon Brando, a performance that fetched her the prestigious Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.
An amusing anecdote accompanied that momentous occasion in Saint’s life. She recalled her reaction to her name being announced at the Oscars. She painted the picture of that memorable moment, explaining how she paused for dramatic effect. Walking towards the podium to claim her accolade, she jokingly remarked that her excitement was such that she might welcome her baby right then and there.
Her personal life was as fulfilled as her professional. Eva Marie Saint was married to the renowned director and producer Jeffrey Hayden. Their union, which began in 1951, stood the test of time, lasting until Hayden’s demise in 2016 at the age of 90. Two offsprings, Darrell and Laurette, and three beloved grandchildren enriched their matrimonial bond.
Saint’s centenary birthday celebration last year witnessed her surrounded by loved ones, a scenario she much preferred. Enlightening us about her plans, she expressed her anticipation of commemorating her 100th birthday in Los Angeles. The joyous occasion was made even more special by her four generations of family members who came together from distant cities like Chicago, Santa Barbara, and San Francisco.
As she blew out her birthday candles, she expressed the close connection she felt with her cherished family and the prospect of celebrating her big day with them. They formed a close-knit group spanning four generations, all gathered to rejoice in Saint’s special day.
This year, her birthday celebration has been much quieter, with no public mentions from the actress. Although she preferred to keep her plans private, one can speculate that she devoted her day to do what she values most — cherishing time with her close relatives and immersing in the quality of life that she so thoroughly appreciates.
Living a ‘good life,’ according to Saint, might not be about grandeur and lavish events. It could very well be about enjoying the simplicity of life, cherishing the company of loved ones, and being grateful for another blessed day. In her world, turning 101 is less about the number and much more about the cherishable moments she gets to share with those who matter most.
While Saint’s fans would have been delighted with public acknowledgment of her 101st birthday, preserving her penchant for privacy, she refrained from making any grand announcements. This humble move kept the focus on her enjoying the special day in her preferred way — with those she loves.
Throughout her life, Eva Marie Saint placed importance on the joy of shared experiences. Her hundred-and-one years were undoubtedly rich with these moments. Saint, through her vibrant career and fulfilling personal life, continues to portray a wonderful example of living a ‘good life.’
Being 101 isn’t about being old; it’s about celebrating the extraordinary journey she has enjoyed so far. With a fantastic career, a fulfilling family life, and a routine centered around simplicity and joy, Saint reminds us that appreciating life’s simple pleasures can pave the way for a beautiful existence. Undoubtedly, she spent her special day doing what she values most — appreciating life.