Joan Fontaine Quotes

Powerful Joan Fontaine for Daily Growth

About Joan Fontaine

Joan Fontaine, born on October 22, 1917, in Tokyo, Japan, to American parents, was an accomplished and enigmatic actress who graced the silver screen with her beauty and talent. Raised in California, she developed a love for acting early, often performing alongside her older sister Olivia de Havilland in school plays. This sibling rivalry would later extend to their professional lives, creating one of Hollywood's most intriguing sister-versus-sister narratives. Fontaine made her film debut in 1935, but it was her role as Charlotte Vale in 'The Women' (1939) that caught the attention of Alfred Hitchcock, who cast her in his classic thriller 'Suspicion' (1941). The movie earned Fontaine an Academy Award for Best Actress, making her the first and, to date, the only performer to win an Oscar for a Hitchcock film. Fontaine continued to captivate audiences with roles in films such as 'Rebecca' (1940), where she starred opposite Laurence Olivier, and 'Ivanhoe' (1952). Her career spanned over four decades, during which she was nominated for three more Academy Awards. Off-screen, Fontaine was known for her independent spirit and private nature. She was married twice but remained childless. In her later years, she lived a quiet life in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, where she passed away on December 15, 2013, at the age of 96. Fontaine's enduring legacy is a testament to her talent, grace, and resilience in the face of competition. Her life serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors and a reminder that sibling rivalry need not overshadow individual achievements.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I'm a very emotional person but I try not to show it."

This quote by Joan Fontaine suggests that she is someone who experiences deep emotions, yet she deliberately conceals or restrains these feelings in her outward expression. It implies a strong self-control and discretion, while simultaneously revealing an underlying sensitivity and emotional depth.


"Being an actress is never easy; it's just a question of whether you want to live with the difficulties or do something else."

This quote suggests that being an actress, like many artistic careers, can be challenging due to its inherent complexities and uncertainties. However, for those who are passionately committed to acting, these difficulties become a part of their lives rather than obstacles to overcome. It implies that the choice between persisting in the career and pursuing another path ultimately lies with the individual, emphasizing the personal determination and resilience required to succeed in the arts.


"The older I get, the more I realize I don't know anything at all."

This quote by Joan Fontaine signifies the profound realization that no matter one's age or experiences, there remains an immense amount to learn and understand about life, people, and oneself. As individuals progress through life, they may gain knowledge, but humility arises from acknowledging the infinite complexities and mysteries that continue to unfold. This perspective encourages curiosity, empathy, and open-mindedness, fostering personal growth and a deeper connection with the world around us.


"I don't think one ever gets over losing a sibling."

This quote by Joan Fontaine reflects the profound and enduring emotional impact that the loss of a sibling can have on an individual. It suggests that such a loss leaves an indelible mark, creating a void that may never truly heal or fade away completely. The bond between siblings is unique and often spans a lifetime, making their absence felt deeply, especially in moments that would otherwise be shared. However, it also implies that the memory of the sibling can remain a comforting presence throughout one's life, offering a sense of continuity and connection despite their physical absence.


"Success is only meaningful with someone to share it with."

This quote emphasizes that success, in its truest form, is not solely defined by individual accomplishments or accolades. Rather, it acquires meaning when shared with others, be they friends, family, or loved ones. The quote suggests that having someone to share success creates a sense of connection, joy, and fulfillment that amplifies the significance of triumphs. In essence, it is the human need for companionship and emotional bonding that imbues success with true value.


I've flown in an international balloon race. I've piloted my own plane. I've ridden to the hounds. I've done a lot of exciting things.

- Joan Fontaine

Balloon, Race, Plane, Exciting Things

Goodness knows, I tried. But I think it's virtually impossible for the right kind of man to be married to a movie star.

- Joan Fontaine

Think, Movie, I Think, Right Kind

I hope I'll die on stage at the age at 105, playing Peter Pan.

- Joan Fontaine

Die, Stage, Peter, Pan

My sister is a very peculiar lady. When we were young, I wasn't allowed to talk to her friends. Now I'm not allowed to talk to her children, nor are they permitted to see me. This is the nature of the lady. Doesn't bother me at all.

- Joan Fontaine

Young, Very, Allowed, Peculiar

That Oscar can be a jinx... It can... damage irreparably one's relations with family, friends. It's an uneasy head that wears the crown.

- Joan Fontaine

Oscar, Damage, Wears, Relations

It's better to be on a soap opera to renew your career and following than to be on any other medium.

- Joan Fontaine

Career, Opera, Other, Renew

If you keep marrying as I do, you learn everybody's hobby.

- Joan Fontaine

Learn, Keep, Everybody, Marrying

Marriage, as an institution, is as dead as the dodo bird.

- Joan Fontaine

Marriage, Bird, Dead, Institution

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