This "Exorcist" Star Lived Through A Real-Life Horror

Mercedes McCambridge was a formidable talent in the world of voice acting and Hollywood, known for her powerful performances and personal struggles.

Born on March 16, 1916, in Joliet, Illinois, to Irish Catholic parents, McCambridge’s early life was steeped in the values of hard work and education.

Mercedes McCambridge: Giant (1956) - Blog - The Film Experience
Her journey from a middle-class family farm to becoming an acclaimed actress is a testament to her resilience and dedication.

Growing up, McCambridge was deeply influenced by her family’s cultural roots.

She attended a high school run by Dominican sisters, which shaped her educational path.

Encouraged by her teachers, she pursued her passion for performance at Mundelein College, where she excelled in drama.

Under the mentorship of Sister Mary Leona Oliver, McCambridge honed her skills in diction and body movement, eventually taking center stage in the college’s verse speaking choir.

Her talent caught the attention of NBC, leading to a five-year performance contract that marked the beginning of her illustrious career in radio.

McCambridge’s distinctive voice became a staple in various daytime soap operas, and her relationship with program director Sydney Stratz further propelled her into the spotlight.

In the 1940s, McCambridge moved to Hollywood, where her career flourished.

She gained recognition for her role in the radio adaptation of “Abie’s Irish Rose” and later worked with Orson Welles, who recognized her talent and featured her in his radio shows.

Despite her growing success, McCambridge faced personal challenges, including a tumultuous marriage to writer William Fifffield, which ultimately ended in divorce.

Mercedes McCambridge Interview (May 15, 1981)

As the entertainment landscape shifted post-World War II, McCambridge sought new opportunities.

She auditioned for the film “All the King’s Men,” where her fierce determination led to a breakthrough role as Sadie Burke, earning her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1953.

This achievement solidified her status as a respected actress, yet the subsequent years brought both professional highs and personal lows.

McCambridge’s life was marred by tragedy, particularly with the stillbirth of her second child in 1951, which exacerbated her struggles with alcoholism.

Despite her successes, she faced a series of setbacks, including a reputation for being difficult to work with.

Her tumultuous relationship with fellow actress Joan Crawford during the filming of “Johnny Guitar” showcased the intense pressures of Hollywood, culminating in a notorious on-set feud.

In the 1960s, McCambridge’s personal life took another downturn as her marriage to producer Fletcher Markle deteriorated.

Her son, John Markle, suffered severe injuries from a violent attack and a car accident, further plunging McCambridge into despair.

Her battle with alcoholism intensified, leading her to seek help and eventually testify before a Senate subcommittee on alcoholism, a courageous move that cost her dearly in terms of career opportunities.

Ladies and gentlemen, to depend on your judgment and to fulfill mine own obligation, I submit the facts…” - Radio Spirits

In a surprising turn of events, McCambridge was cast as the voice of the devil in the iconic film “The Exorcist.

” To prepare for the role, she pushed her vocal abilities to the limit, employing extreme measures to achieve the desired effect.

However, upon the film’s release, she was shocked to find that her contributions had not been credited, leading to a bitter dispute with director William Friedkin.

Despite these challenges, McCambridge continued to work in television and theater throughout the 1970s and 1980s.

She remained active in her advocacy for alcoholism awareness, using her platform to help others struggling with addiction.

Her final acting role was in the television series “Cagney & Lacey” in 1988.

Mercedes McCambridge passed away on March 2, 2004, from heart failure, leaving behind a complex legacy.

Her commitment to her craft and her courage in confronting personal demons made her a remarkable figure in Hollywood history.

Orson Welles once referred to her as the “world’s greatest living voice actor,” a title she earned through years of dedication and hard work.

Her life story serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles many face in the pursuit of their dreams.

McCambridge’s journey from a small-town girl to a Hollywood icon, marked by both triumph and tragedy, continues to inspire those who seek to overcome their own obstacles.

In conclusion, Mercedes McCambridge’s legacy is one of resilience, talent, and the enduring human spirit.

Her contributions to the arts and her advocacy for addiction recovery highlight the importance of using one’s voice for change, making her a true pioneer in both her professional and personal life.