Poised Facts About Greer Garson, The Hollywood Duchess
Greer Garson was an international movie star and a world record holder in the 1940s who even appeared on the cover of Time Magazine. Yet her climb to the top was anything but easy—and some of the obstacles she faced were downright disturbing.
1. She Experienced A Tragic Loss As A Toddler
When Greer Garson was only two years old, she lost her father, who tragically passed during an appendectomy. This left her mother to support the tiny family, which she did by managing the townhouses her husband had owned.
And the effects on Greer were utterly devastating.
2. She Was A Show-Off
Throughout her childhood, little Greer was frequently sick—perhaps due to her early trauma. But she made the best of it, reading a lot during her many illnesses, and she showed off her learning whenever she could. This had a heartbreaking consequence. Adults may have been impressed, but other children didn’t like her.
By her own admission, she was a “stuffy” little snob, so she didn’t have many friends her own age. But her drama-queen tendencies went hand-in-hand with impressive talent.
3. The Acting Bug Bit Her Early
At the tender age of four, Greer Garson appeared on stage at the village town hall, doing a dramatic recitation. It took no time at all for her to start winning prizes and awards for her acting, and the child relished the attention and success.
She must have thought she was already well on her way to stardom. Unfortunately, fate—and her family—had other plans for her.
4. An Unusual Problem Kept Her From Watching Live Performances
Despite wanting to see professional actors on stage and learn from them how to be a better actor, the young Greer couldn’t go to the theater—and the reason why was a little bizarre. She was so highly strung that watching a performance was too much for her.
She would become so absorbed in the play that she was compelled to re-enact all the performances when she got home. Cue those fainting spells. And that wasn’t the only problem she faced…
