10 fun and interesting Greta Garbo facts

1. Greta Garbo, the silent film icon

Greta Garbo, born Greta Lovisa Gustafsson on September 18th, 1905, was a Swedish actress who rose to fame in the 1920s and 1930s. She was one of the most iconic figures of the silent film era, and her career spanned over 25 years, during which she starred in a number of critically acclaimed films such as Grand Hotel, Anna Christie, and Ninotchka. Her unique beauty and enigmatic persona made her an international star, and she was the first female to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

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2. Greta Garbo Retired and Left an Enigmatic Legacy

Greta Garbo was one of the most iconic actresses of the 20th century, having starred in 28 films before her retirement in 1941. Despite being offered the chance to return to her film career, she chose to shun publicity and never made another picture, cementing her legacy as one of the most enigmatic figures in Hollywood history.

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3. Legendary Actress Who Battled Depression

Greta Garbo was a legendary actress who was known for her enigmatic on-screen presence, but she also battled depression for much of her life. She was often described as moody or temperamental, and her struggles with depression were well-known among her peers. Despite her inner turmoil, she was able to channel her emotions into her performances, creating some of the most iconic characters in film history.

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4. Greta Garbo's Art Collection Worth Millions Sold at Auction

Greta Garbo was an avid art collector, beginning her collection in the 1940s. By the time of her death, her collection was worth millions of dollars and included works from some of the most renowned artists of the time, such as Picasso, Matisse, and Chagall. Her collection was so vast and valuable that it was auctioned off in three separate sales, with the proceeds going to charity.

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5. Manhattanite for Life

In 1951, Greta Garbo became a naturalized citizen of the United States and, shortly after, purchased an apartment in Manhattan. This was to be her home for the remainder of her life, and it was here that she spent her days in peaceful seclusion. The apartment was located in the heart of the city, providing her with easy access to the hustle and bustle of the city, yet still allowing her to remain in her own private sanctuary.

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6. Greta Garbo's Solitary Walks in New York City

Greta Garbo was notorious for her long, solitary walks around New York City, often wearing huge sunglasses to shield her from the public eye. On some occasions, she was accompanied by friends, but more often than not, she preferred to wander the streets alone, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. Her walks were a way for her to escape the pressures of fame and to find solace in the anonymity of the bustling metropolis.

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7. Iconic Actress Who Beat Cancer

In 1984, Greta Garbo was diagnosed with breast cancer, but thankfully, she was successfully treated for the disease. The iconic actress, who was known for her roles in films such as Grand Hotel and Ninotchka, was able to beat the cancer and continue to live a long and healthy life.

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8. Greta Garbo's Letters Suggest She Was a Lesbian

Greta Garbo was a legendary actress who never married nor had any children. After her death, many letters were discovered that seemed to suggest that she may have been a lesbian. These letters revealed intimate details of her relationships with other women, and provided a glimpse into her private life that had been kept hidden from the public. The discovery of these letters has sparked much debate and speculation about her sexuality, and has added to her mystique as one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood history.

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9. Greta Garbo, Iconic Actress, Dies at 84

On April 15, 1990, the world lost one of its most beloved stars, Greta Garbo. After a long battle with pneumonia and renal failure, the iconic actress passed away at the age of 84. Her death was a shock to many, as she had been a beloved figure in the entertainment industry for decades. Her legacy lives on in her many films, which continue to be enjoyed by fans around the world.

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10. Greta Garbo's niece inherits $32 million estate

Greta Garbo was renowned for her wise financial decisions throughout her life, and upon her death in 1990, her niece was the sole beneficiary of her estate. Her estate was estimated to be worth around $32 million, a testament to her astute financial management. Garbo's niece inherited the entire estate, which included her Beverly Hills mansion, her art collection, and her extensive library.