Audrey Hepburn vs Julie Andrews: Who Played Eliza Doolittle Better?

Introduction

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The timeless tale of My Fair Lady has captivated audiences for decades. Two legendary actresses, Audrey Hepburn and Julie Andrews, both played the iconic role of Eliza Doolittle, but who delivered a more memorable performance? This article delves into the merits of both performers, their respective talents, and the challenges they faced in portraying this enchanting character.

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Julie Andrews: The Stage Original

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Julie Andrews made her mark as the stage original of Eliza Doolittle, premiering on Broadway in 1956. Despite her voice not being selected for the film adaptation, she still managed to create a memorable portrayal. Her role in this stage production helped establish My Fair Lady as one of the most iconic musicals in American theater, solidifying her status as a celebrated performer.

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Audrey Hepburn: Hollywood's Pick

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Audrey Hepburn, a household name in the cinema, was the choice for the film adaptation of My Fair Lady. Her selection was heavily influenced by the producers' desire to secure the "star name" that would guarantee the success of the project. This decision was not without its controversies, as critics and fans debated whether her choice was based on Hepburn's dramatic talent or her fame alone.

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The Singing Sidelines: The Dubbed Voices

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Both actresses faced the challenge of not being able to sing their respective roles. For Audrey Hepburn, Marni Nixon supplied her singing voice for the film. While the use of a dubbed voice was common in the industry at the time, it often raised questions about the authenticity of the performances. Similarly, Julie Andrews' voice was dubbed as virtually no recording of her singing was available for reuse in the film.

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Assessment of Their Performances

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The debate over who played the better Eliza Doolittle is not easily resolved. Julie Andrews, as the original stage interpretation, won hearts with her sincerity and raw talent on the stage. Her attention to detail and connection with the characters she portrayed made her performance a highlight of My Fair Lady's stage history.

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In contrast, Audrey Hepburn's cinematic portrayal brought a new dimension to the role. Her elegance, grace, and unmatched charisma on screen complemented her character's transformation. However, her decision to dub her voice to Marni Nixon's singing voice has been a point of contention for some fans and critics.

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From a stylistic perspective, Audrey Hepburn's performance might be more visually captivating on screen. Her portrayal showcased the transformation from a rough, cockney-accented flower girl to a sophisticated lady of the London stage. In this sense, her visual portrayal complements the plot's narrative of Eliza's transformation.

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On the other hand, Julie Andrews' stage performance is a masterclass in live theater. Her authentic connection with the character and her unwavering dedication to the role made her interpretation a beloved one for many theater-goers. Her accent and British accent helped in the authenticity of the role, despite the absence of a singing voice.

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Conclusion

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The debate between Audrey Hepburn and Julie Andrews' Eliza Doolittle comes down to personal preference and the medium each actress excelled in. While both actresses displayed different but equally incredible talents, who delivered the better portrayal is subjective and dependent on the context—whether seen on stage or in film.

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Ultimately, whether one prefers the elegance and charm of Audrey Hepburn or the sincerity and authenticity of Julie Andrews, My Fair Lady remains a work of art that will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.

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