Anjelica Huston: From her defining role to her turbulent relationship with Jack Nicholson and life-altering accidents

Anjelica Huston, a celebrated actress known for her distinctive roles and striking presence, marks her 75th birthday on July 8th. Huston has carved out a unique place in Hollywood, balancing iconic performances with a life marked by both personal triumphs and significant challenges.

Her career, deeply rooted in a family legacy of filmmaking with her grandfather Walter Huston and father John Huston, gained significant momentum when her father directed her in the 1985 gangster film 'The Prizzi's Honor.' Her portrayal of Maerose Prizzi earned her an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress, catapulting her from relative anonymity to critical acclaim.

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Maerose was there, on the printed page, with her Sicilian nose, her manipulations, and her great love for Charley.

Huston continued to garner accolades, receiving further Oscar nominations for 'Enemies, A Love Story' and 'The Grifters.' However, it was her unforgettable performance as Morticia Addams in the 1991 film 'The Addams Family' that cemented her status as a cultural icon. Director Barry Sonnenfeld reportedly chose Huston for the role, valuing her height, agility, and slender frame over the greater fame of other actresses considered.

Huston has spoken about drawing inspiration from Jerry Hall for her portrayal of Morticia, seeing the character as a surprisingly nurturing and understanding mother figure, embodying a dark yet loving maternal presence. Beyond her acclaimed roles, Huston's life has also been defined by her tumultuous 17-year relationship with actor Jack Nicholson and overcoming a near-fatal accident, experiences that have shaped her resilience and perspective.

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I was inspired by Jerry Hall to create Morticia. In the Addams Family, everything white is black and everything good is bad, but Morticia is the most indulgent, understanding, and wonderful mother, and I always saw Jerry as a perfect example of motherhood.