Greta Garbo: Iconic Moments & Her Cause Of Death

Greta Garbo and John Gilbert in 'Flesh and the Devil'

Breakout Role in 'Flesh and the Devil' (1926)
Garbo starred as "Felicitas" in one of her first major Hollywood roles, a part that solidified her as a captivating and sensual actress. Her chemistry with co-star John Gilbert became the talk of Hollywood, and the two even had a real-life romance that fascinated fans.

Greta Garbo in 'Anna Christie'

Academy Award-Nominated Performances
Garbo earned three Oscar nominations throughout her career, with unforgettable roles in 'Anna Christie' (1930) as "Anna" and 'Camille' (1936) as the tragic "Marguerite." Her performance in 'Camille' is still celebrated as one of cinema’s most powerful portrayals of doomed love.

Greta Garbo in 'Ninotchka'

'Ninotchka' (1939): Garbo Laughs
This comedy saw Garbo in a rare humorous role as "Ninotchka," a stern Soviet envoy softened by love. Promoted with the slogan “Garbo laughs!”, the film showcased her versatility and surprised fans accustomed to her dramatic roles.

Greta Garbo in 'Queen Christina'

'Queen Christina' (1933): A Gender-Bending Masterpiece
In 'Queen Christina,' Garbo played the titular role of "Christina," the Swedish queen who defied conventions and navigated complex romantic and political landscapes. Her nuanced portrayal, including a famous scene where she kisses her female co-star, challenged Hollywood norms and cemented her as a daring, boundary-breaking actress.

Greta Garbo in 'Queen Christina'

Hollywood’s First International Star
As one of the first truly international stars, Garbo’s fame transcended language and borders. Her unique accent and mystique appealed to audiences around the world, making her one of MGM’s most bankable stars of the 1930s. She helped pave the way for future global film icons, showing Hollywood the power of international appeal.

Greta Garbo

Declined a Special Honorary Oscar
Though nominated several times, Garbo never won a competitive Oscar. In 1954, the Academy awarded her an Honorary Oscar for her “luminous and unforgettable screen performances.” True to her elusive nature, Garbo declined to attend the ceremony, staying out of the spotlight even for one of Hollywood’s highest honors.

Greta Garbo in 'Two-Faced Woman'

Mysterious Exit from Hollywood
In 1941, after her final film 'Two-Faced Woman' underperformed, Garbo retired from acting. Despite many offers, she chose a quiet life away from Hollywood, living reclusively in New York City and maintaining her “Swedish Sphinx” persona.

Greta Garbo

Final Years and Cause of Death
Garbo lived out her later years privately in New York City, rarely seen in public. She passed away from kidney failure on April 15, 1990, at the age of 84. Though gone, her legacy as an iconic actress who balanced fame with mystery lives on, inspiring generations of actors and film enthusiasts alike.

Greta Garbo

With these remarkable achievements, Garbo’s legacy as a bold, unconventional actress continues to inspire fans and actors worldwide. Her story endures as a blend of on-screen brilliance and off-screen mystery, keeping her place as a timeless icon.

Greta Garbo, an enigmatic star of Hollywood’s Golden Age, is most remembered for her striking screen presence and her ability to convey deep emotion with minimal dialogue. Known for roles in classics like 'Camille' and 'Grand Hotel,' Garbo captivated audiences worldwide with her mystery and elegance. Here’s a look back at some of her most iconic moments in cinema and her lasting legacy, along with details on her passing.

Greta Garbo: Iconic Career Moments & Her Tragic End

Greta Garbo remains one of the most memorable figures of classic Hollywood, with her understated yet intense performances defining a timeless era of cinema.