Claire Trevor Quotes

Powerful Claire Trevor for Daily Growth

About Claire Trevor

Claire Trevor (December 8, 1910 – January 8, 2000) was an illustrious American actress renowned for her versatile performances on both stage and screen. Born in San Francisco, California, she spent her early years in the show business world as a dancer, eventually transitioning to acting. Trevor's career took off during the late 1920s and continued through the 1960s, marking an era of golden Hollywood films. Her breakout role came in 1935 with 'The Old Maid,' for which she was nominated for the first Academy Award for Best Actress, becoming the first actress to achieve this milestone. Known for her ability to portray strong, complex characters, Trevor's work in films such as 'Key Largo' (1948) and 'Dark Passage' (1947), alongside Humphrey Bogart, are some of her most iconic performances. She also shone in 'High Sierra' (1941) and 'Street of Chance' (1931). Off-screen, Trevor remained active in various philanthropic endeavors throughout her life. In 1968, she founded the Claire Trevor School of the Arts at the University of California, Irvine, becoming a significant figure in higher education as well. Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1999 by President Bill Clinton, Claire Trevor left an indelible mark on American cinema and continues to inspire generations of artists and performers with her enduring legacy. Her resilience, talent, and dedication embody a spirit that captivated audiences for decades.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"We must take a hand in our destiny if we are to become the architects of our future."

This quote by Claire Trevor underscores personal responsibility and proactive decision-making. It suggests that individuals have the power to shape their own lives and futures, but only if they choose to actively participate in shaping their destiny. The message is one of empowerment, urging people to take control of their lives and be agents of change rather than passive observers of their circumstances. In essence, Trevor's quote encourages individuals to be the architects of their own future.


"Fear is not a virtue; it's just fear."

This quote emphasizes that fear should not be confused with a positive attribute or a virtue. Instead, fear is simply an emotion, an instinctual response to perceived threats. By acknowledging its existence without ascribing value to it, we can more effectively manage our reactions and make rational decisions. It encourages individuals to strive for courage, determination, and resilience, rather than letting fear control them.


"The strength of a man can be determined by the amount of pain he can bear, but the true measure of a person lies in the amount of pain that person can feel for another."

This quote suggests that while traditional views might define strength based on one's ability to endure physical or emotional pain, the real testament of a person's character is their capacity to empathize and feel deeply for others. It implies that true strength lies not just in personal resilience, but also in compassion, understanding, and caring for others' struggles and wellbeing.


"The road to hell is paved with good intentions."

This quote, attributed to Claire Trevor, warns that while having good intentions may seem beneficial, they can lead to negative outcomes if not properly acted upon or if the execution lacks careful consideration. It implies that well-meaning actions without proper planning or forethought can unintentionally result in harm or complications, much like a well-paved road leading to hell. In other words, it's important to ensure that our good intentions translate into thoughtful and carefully planned actions to achieve positive results.


"A hero isn't measured by the size of his strength, but by the size of his heart." - Character: Johnny Rico (from the novel "Starship Troopers") by Robert A. Heinlein, read and made famous by Claire Trevor in the 1959 film adaptation.

This quote highlights that true heroism is not solely defined by physical strength, but rather by the size of one's heart. In other words, a hero is someone who demonstrates compassion, empathy, courage, and selflessness, even in the face of adversity. The larger the capacity to exhibit these qualities, the greater the heroism. This message remains relevant today as we continue to search for role models whose actions reflect moral integrity, kindness, and bravery.


What a holler would ensue if people had to pay the minister as much to marry them as they have to pay a lawyer to get them a divorce.

- Claire Trevor

Pay, Marry, Minister, Divorce

Hollywood has lost an enormous amount of quality.

- Claire Trevor

Lost, Hollywood, Amount, Quality

The studios knew how to build a star, and they knew what to do with you. They also taught you everything.

- Claire Trevor

Star, How, Taught, Studios

Key Largo... I could have stayed on that picture for the rest of my life. I adored it.

- Claire Trevor

Rest, My Life, Could, Stayed

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