Introduction
Mercedes McCambridge was an American actress and voice artist who left a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry. Known for her distinctive voice, she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “All the King’s Men” and lent her voice to the demon in the horror classic “The Exorcist.” However, her personal life was marked by tragedy and controversy. In this blog post, we will delve into the life and legacy of Mercedes McCambridge, from her career highlights to her personal struggles and passing.
McCambridge’s Early Life and Career
Childhood and Education
Mercedes McCambridge was born on March 16, 1916, in Joliet, Illinois. Her parents were both Catholic and of Irish descent. McCambridge was raised in a strict household and attended Catholic schools throughout her childhood. She later attended Mundelein College in Chicago, where she studied drama and speech.
Early Acting Career
After college, McCambridge moved to New York City to pursue a career in acting. She made her Broadway debut in 1941 in “Johnny 2×4,” and went on to appear in several other plays, including “The Skin of Our Teeth” and “The Glass Menagerie.” In 1949, she made her film debut in “All the King’s Men,” for which she won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
McCambridge’s Voice Acting Career
“The Adventures of Superman”
In the 1950s, McCambridge began to focus more on voice acting. She provided the voice of Lois Lane in the radio series “The Adventures of Superman,” and later reprised the role in the TV series of the same name. She also lent her voice to several other radio dramas, including “Suspense” and “Escape.”
“The Exorcist”
McCambridge’s most famous voice acting role was that of the demon in the 1973 horror film “The Exorcist.” She underwent a grueling process to create the voice, which involved chain-smoking and drinking raw eggs. Despite her efforts, she was not credited in the film’s initial release, but her contribution was later acknowledged.
McCambridge’s Personal Life
Relationships and Family
McCambridge was married twice and had four children. Her son John Markle, from her first marriage, tragically died by suicide in 1987. McCambridge’s relationship with her other children was strained, and she reportedly struggled with alcoholism and depression throughout her life.
Sexuality and Controversy
McCambridge’s sexuality has been a subject of speculation and controversy. While she was married to her second husband, she reportedly had a romantic relationship with actress and director Dorothy Arzner. McCambridge also faced criticism for her conservative political views and support of the anti-communist blacklist in Hollywood.
McCambridge’s Legacy and Passing
Academy Awards and Recognition
McCambridge’s talent as an actress and voice artist was widely recognized throughout her career. In addition to her Academy Award for “All the King’s Men,” she received several other nominations and won a Golden Globe for her role in “Giant.” She was also inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 1989.
Cause of Death
Mercedes McCambridge passed away on March 2, 2004, at the age of 87. The cause of her death was not disclosed.
Conclusion
Mercedes McCambridge was a talented actress and voice artist whose contributions to the entertainment industry continue to be celebrated today. While her personal life was marked by tragedy and controversy, her legacy as a performer is undeniable. From her Academy Award-winning voice to her iconic role in “The Exorcist,” McCambridge will always be remembered as one of Hollywood’s most distinctive and memorable voices.
