Mercedes McCambridge

Mercedes McCambridge, born as Carlotta Mercedes Agnes McCambridge on March 16, 1916 in Joliet, Illinois, was a multi-talented American actress who showcased her talent across radio, stage, film, and television. Her talent earned her the accolade as the 'world's greatest living radio actress' by Orson Welles. In her debut performance on the big screen with 'All the King's Men' (1949), McCambridge earned the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Her performance in 'Giant' (1956) earned her another nomination in the same category. She conceded willingly to dramatically alter her voice for the character of Pazuzu in 'The Exorcist' (1973). Born to Irish-American Catholic parents, she graduated from Mundelein College in Chicago. McCambridge kick-started her career as a radio actor in the 1930s and eventually moved to Broadway. Her diverse career included soap operas, drama series, and supernatural television shows. Despite personal life struggles including battling alcoholism and dealing with a family tragedy, McCambridge contributed significantly to the industry earning her two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.