Lila Kedrova, Russian-French actress and singer

Elizaveta Nikolaevna Kedrova, widely recognized by her stage name Lila Kedrova (Russian: Елизавета (Лиля) Николаевна Кедрова), was a distinguished Russian-born French actress whose remarkable career spanned several decades. Born on 9 October 1909, Kedrova's early life saw her family emigrate from Russia following the October Revolution, eventually settling in France where she would hone her craft and become a celebrated figure on the European stage and in international cinema.

Her extensive work showcased a profound versatility, ranging from dramatic roles to musical theatre, making her a truly unique talent in the acting world.

A Dual Triumph: Oscar and Tony for Zorba

Lila Kedrova's most iconic and celebrated performance came with her portrayal of the aging, world-weary French courtesan, Madame Hortense, in Michael Cacoyannis's critically acclaimed 1964 film, Zorba the Greek. Sharing the screen with Anthony Quinn, Kedrova brought a poignant vulnerability and resilience to her character that captivated audiences worldwide. Her deeply moving and memorable performance earned her the prestigious Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress at the 37th Academy Awards ceremony in 1965, solidifying her status as an internationally recognized talent.

Remarkably, Kedrova achieved an extraordinary feat by reprising the very same role of Madame Hortense in the musical stage adaptation of Zorba. Her commanding presence and nuanced interpretation on Broadway once again garnered immense critical acclaim, leading to her triumph at the 1968 Tony Awards. She won the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical, becoming one of the rare few actors to win both an Academy Award and a Tony Award for portraying the same character across different artistic mediums. This unparalleled achievement underscores her exceptional talent and the enduring power of her characterization.

Legacy and Later Career

Beyond her celebrated work in Zorba the Greek, Lila Kedrova maintained a vibrant and active career across various platforms. She was a prominent figure in French theatre and cinema for many years, known for her distinctive character roles and powerful stage presence. Her background, including her parents being opera singers, undoubtedly influenced her artistic sensibilities and contributed to the depth she brought to her performances. Kedrova continued to work extensively in films, television, and theatre productions, captivating audiences until close to her passing on 16 February 2000, leaving behind a rich filmography and an inspiring legacy of artistic excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lila Kedrova

Who was Lila Kedrova?

Lila Kedrova was a highly acclaimed Russian-born French actress, best known for her Oscar-winning role in the 1964 film Zorba the Greek and her Tony Award-winning performance in the musical version of the same story.

What awards did Lila Kedrova win for Zorba the Greek?

Lila Kedrova won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1965 for her role as Madame Hortense in the film Zorba the Greek. She also won the Tony Award for Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical in 1968 for reprising the same role in the Broadway musical adaptation.

What was Lila Kedrova's most famous character?

Her most famous and critically recognized character was Madame Hortense from the iconic film Zorba the Greek, a role she famously brought to life on both screen and stage.

When was Lila Kedrova born and when did she pass away?

Elizaveta (Lila) Nikolaevna Kedrova was born on 9 October 1909 and passed away on 16 February 2000.