O’Toole on Hepburn - The Lion in Winter 1968 TCM interview in 2012

Early Connection & Advocacy

• 💡 Peter O'Toole named his daughter Kate after Katharine Hepburn, a fact confirmed in the interview.
• 🤝 Their initial meeting occurred in London after O'Toole's play, "The Long and the Short and the Tall," when Hepburn introduced herself.
• 🌟 From 1958 onwards, Hepburn consistently acted as O'Toole's advocate and champion, fostering a strong friendship.

Casting for The Lion in Winter

• 📜 Following the death of Spencer Tracy, O'Toole sent Hepburn the script for "The Lion in Winter", despite having low expectations.
• 🎬 O'Toole, who had control over casting, considered only two other actresses for the role: Vivian Leigh and Margaret Rutherford.

Hepburn's Response & Work Ethic

• 📞 Hepburn's immediate and enthusiastic response to the script was a direct phone call to O'Toole, stating, "Do it before I die."
• ⏱️ She was known for her demanding professionalism on set, giving actors "60 seconds in which you are to be word perfect," but was ultimately a "delightful woman."

Legacy of a Star

• 👏 O'Toole described Hepburn as "the best of the best of America," highlighting her exceptional talent and personality.
• 🎭 The interview features O'Toole reciting memorable lines from "The Lion in Winter," showcasing the film's powerful dialogue.