Audrey Hepburn photographed by Bob Willoughby
Audrey Hepburn photographed by Bob Willoughby on the set of My Fair Lady, 1964
Some actors - no need to name names - were legendary tyrants on the set. Some were storied drunks, and others were divas of the highest order. Audrey, too, was famous for her on-set demeanor. She was, if the many reports are to be believed, the most charming, disarming, altogether friendly and charismatic superstar ever to grace a Hollywood production. Everyone liked Audrey and remained loyal to her. Directors like William Wyler sought to work with her over and oever. The very best designers, from Edith Head to Givenchy, longed to create her outfits. It was said that all her leading men loved her, and this is certainly believable. Particularly close relationship, some platonic and other admittedly more than that, were formed with Gregory Peck during the filming of 1953’s Roman Holiday, William Holden during the following year’s Sabrina, Anthony Perks during the Green Mansions shoot, Rex Harrison when filming My Fair Lady and Albert Finney during the making of the 1967 film Two for the Road. Audrey said once that one of her favorite productions was Funny Face because she got to dance with Fred Astaire, and Cary Grant was once quoted as saying, “All I want for Christmas is another picture with Audrey Hepburn”. During his time in Hollywood, Bob Willoughby saw all the biggest stars in their public and private moments. None impressed him as much as Audrey did. None had the charm that he captures so well in this final series of behind the scenes, unguarded moments. “She left those who came in contact with her better for having known her”, he says. “I miss her to this day.”


