Madeline Kahn
Birth Name:
Madeline Gail Wolfson
Birth Place:
Boston, Massachusetts, United States
Profession
Actress, Soundtrack
Fast Facts
- Graduated from Hofstra University with a speech therapy degree after earning a scholarship to study drama
- Quote: "Actually, I hold a degree in speech therapy․ I was going to get my doctorate but acting got in the way․ Pity, I always thought I'd like to do something dignified․"
- Passed away at the age of 57 after a short bout with ovarian cancer in 1999
- Became known as a mostly comedic actress after roles in films such as "Blazing Saddles", "Young Frankenstein" and "High Society", all directed by Mel Brooks
- Joined the Actors' Equity soon after graduating from college and soon began appearing in several off-Broadway musicals that showcased her singing voice
- Her husband and son dedicated a bench in Central Park in her honor following her death in 1999
Awards
- 1973Golden Globe - Most Promising Newcomer - Female:Nominated
- 1973KCFCC Award - Best Supporting Actress:Winner
- 1974Oscar - Best Actress in a Supporting Role:Nominated
- 1974Golden Globe - Best Supporting Actress - Motion Picture:Nominated
- 1974NYFCC Award - Best Supporting Actress:Nominated
- 1975Oscar - Best Actress in a Supporting Role:Nominated
- 1975Golden Globe - Best Supporting Actress - Motion Picture:Nominated
- 1984Golden Globe - Best Performance by an Actress in a Television Series - Comedy or Musical:Nominated
- 1987Daytime Emmy - Outstanding Performer in Children's Programming:Winner
- 1995American Comedy Award - Funniest Actress in a Motion Picture (Leading Role):Nominated
- 1996Actor - Outstanding Performance by a Cast:Nominated
- 2000BSFC Award - Best Supporting Actress:Nominated
- 2001Chlotrudis Award - Best Supporting Actress:Nominated