Barbara Lynn Herzstein, famously known as Barbara Hershey, was born on February 5, 1948, in Hollywood, California. Her parents, Arnold Herzstein, a horse racing columnist, and Melrose Herzstein, a housewife, gave her a humble upbringing despite their proximity to the glitzy world of Hollywood. Hershey’s childhood was a blend of simplicity and aspirations, fueling her early interest in acting. Attending Hollywood High School, she took part in school plays, immersing herself in performing arts. By 17, she was auditioning for roles, making her television debut in 1965 with Gidget, a western series. This role marked the beginning of an illustrious acting journey.

Early Career and Television Roles

Hershey’s early years in entertainment saw her featured in numerous television shows, including The Monroes, The Farmer’s Daughter, and Run for Your Life. These roles built her acting portfolio and allowed her to sharpen her on-screen skills. She broke into film with With Six You Get Eggroll (1968), a comedy where her charming presence made her an instant favorite among casting directors. However, it was in independent films during the 1970s that Hershey began to develop the nuanced, versatile acting style that would define her career.

Breakthrough Role: Boxcar Bertha

Barbara Hershey’s breakthrough role arrived in 1972 with Boxcar Bertha, directed by Martin Scorsese. Set during the Great Depression, the film follows Bertha, a woman entangled with an outlaw on a crime spree. Hershey’s raw and emotionally intense performance in Boxcar Bertha proved her range, showcasing her ability to embody complex characters. This role allowed Hershey to transition from light-hearted television roles to serious, dramatic characters, setting her on a path toward Hollywood acclaim.

Defining Performances in the 1980s

Following Boxcar Bertha, Hershey’s career gained momentum with a series of standout performances. In The Stunt Man (1980), she starred alongside Peter O’Toole as Nina Franklin, an actress entangled in movie-set intrigue. Her performance was praised for its depth, proving her versatility and talent. A pivotal role came in 1986 with Hannah and Her Sisters, directed by Woody Allen. Playing Lee, a young woman in a complicated affair, Hershey captivated audiences with her portrayal of vulnerability and inner conflict. This role earned her a BAFTA nomination, cementing her reputation as a dramatic actress capable of portraying nuanced emotions.

Iconic Role in The Last Temptation of Christ

In 1988, Hershey took on one of her most iconic roles as Mary Magdalene in The Last Temptation of Christ, directed by Martin Scorsese. The film sparked controversy for its bold retelling of biblical stories, yet Hershey’s performance was widely acclaimed. Her portrayal of Mary Magdalene brought humanity and complexity to a historical figure, leaving a lasting impression. This role demonstrated her talent for transforming even the most challenging characters into multi-dimensional figures.

Accolades and Recognition for Dramatic Roles

Barbara Hershey’s dramatic talents led to multiple award-winning performances. In 1990, she starred in A World Apart, a film set during the apartheid era in South Africa, where her portrayal of Diana Roth, an anti-apartheid journalist, won her the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress. She earned a second Cannes Best Actress Award in 1987 for Shy People, where she played a woman exploring her roots in the Louisiana bayou. These accolades reinforced her status as one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses, known for her dedication to portraying emotionally complex roles.

Critical Success with The Portrait of a Lady

In 1996, Hershey’s performance in The Portrait of a Lady, directed by Jane Campion, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She played Madame Serena Merle, a manipulative, ambitious woman who adds tension and intrigue to the plot. Her portrayal added complexity to the story, drawing acclaim for its authenticity and intensity. This role highlighted Hershey’s versatility and her commitment to creating unforgettable characters.

Television Success in the 1990s and 2000s

During the 1990s and 2000s, Hershey expanded her career into television, showcasing her adaptability across formats. She took on roles in series like Chicago Hope, The Mountain, and The Practice, receiving praise for her seamless transition between film and television. Her role in The Monroes (1995-1996) as Kathy Monroe, a woman determined to keep her family together, displayed her strength in family dramas and remains a fan favorite.

In 2010, she joined the hit series Once Upon a Time, playing the sinister yet captivating Queen of Hearts, Cora. This role introduced Hershey to a new generation of fans and highlighted her talent for creating layered, morally ambiguous characters. Her performance in Once Upon a Time became one of the show’s standout portrayals, adding to her legacy.

Present-Day Career and Continued Influence

Barbara Hershey remains a respected figure in Hollywood, continuing to act in both film and television. Her recent work showcases her enduring talent and passion for her craft, connecting with audiences through complex roles. Her performances in Boxcar Bertha, Hannah and Her Sisters, The Last Temptation of Christ, and The Portrait of a Lady have solidified her place in Hollywood history. Hershey’s dedication to exploring the depths of her characters has left a profound impact on the industry, inspiring younger actresses to approach their roles with authenticity and resilience.

Legacy of Authenticity and Inspiration

Hershey’s influence in Hollywood is far-reaching, marked by her dedication to authenticity, emotional depth, and resilience. She has set a high standard for acting that transcends time and genre, inspiring actresses to pursue roles that resonate with depth and humanity. Hershey’s willingness to take on unconventional and challenging roles has made her a role model for aspiring actors and actresses, demonstrating that success in Hollywood requires talent, hard work, and a commitment to one’s craft.

Conclusion

Barbara Lynn Herzstein, widely celebrated as Barbara Hershey, has built an extraordinary career that spans over five decades. Her path from television’s Gidget to iconic film performances like Boxcar Bertha and The Last Temptation of Christ showcases her versatility, talent, and dedication to storytelling. Hershey’s legacy is one of resilience and authenticity, resonating with audiences and leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood. Today, she stands as a true icon of film and television, admired for her talent, her ability to portray complex characters, and her lasting impact on the entertainment industry.