Kate O'Mara
Kate O'Mara: A Life of Drama and Dedication
Full Name and Common Aliases
Kate O'Mara was born on June 10, 1939, in Leicester, England, as Karen Shiel. She is commonly known by her stage name, Kate O'Mara.
Birth and Death Dates
June 10, 1939 – March 30, 2017
Nationality and Profession(s)
British actress and singer
Early Life and Background
Kate O'Mara's early life was marked by a passion for the performing arts. Growing up in Leicester, she began singing at a young age and attended the local grammar school. Her parents encouraged her love of music, supporting her decision to pursue a career in entertainment.
After completing her education, O'Mara moved to London to study drama at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). It was during this time that she adopted the stage name Kate O'Mara, which would become synonymous with her on-screen presence. Her training at RADA laid the foundation for a successful career in theater and television.
Major Accomplishments
Kate O'Mara's talent and determination led to numerous notable roles throughout her career. Some of her most significant accomplishments include:
Winning the 1962 _Daily Mirror_ Best Actress award for her performance in the West End production of "The Boy Friend"
Earning a Tony Award nomination for her portrayal of Mame in the Broadway production of "Mame" (1966)
Playing iconic roles in popular British television shows, including _Howards' Way_ and _Dynasty_
Being awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in 2007 for her services to drama
Notable Works or Actions
Kate O'Mara's extensive career spanned multiple mediums, with notable works including:
Her breakout role as Jackie Osbourne on the long-running BBC soap opera _Howards' Way_ (1985-1990)
Playing the character of Alexis Carrington Colby in the hit television series _Dynasty_ (1981-1989)
* Appearing in several stage productions, including "The Boy Friend" and "Mame"
Impact and Legacy
Kate O'Mara's influence on British popular culture cannot be overstated. Her performances captivated audiences, making her a beloved figure in the world of drama and entertainment. As an actress, she embodied the spirit of determination and hard work that defined her career.
Throughout her life, Kate O'Mara remained committed to her craft, using her platform to promote the arts and support emerging talent. Her legacy extends beyond her notable roles; she paved the way for future generations of women in the entertainment industry.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Kate O'Mara's impact on popular culture is a testament to her enduring talent and dedication. As an actress, singer, and devoted advocate for the arts, she left an indelible mark on British television and theater. Her passion for performance inspired countless individuals, cementing her place as one of the most beloved figures in the world of entertainment.
Her iconic roles, combined with her tireless advocacy for emerging talent, have solidified Kate O'Mara's position as a household name. Even after her passing in 2017, her memory continues to be celebrated by fans and fellow performers alike.
Quotes by Kate O'Mara
The ghastly thing about being a producer is that, once the curtain goes up, there is nothing you can do. At least when you are in it, you have some measure of control. If something goes wrong, you can maybe put it right. When you are in the audience, there is nothing you can do.
If you put a much older woman in 'Doctor Who,' they can identify with it. I think it's quite an interesting concept, and if you remember things like 'Grimm's Fairytales,' the older woman is often the villainess, often the terrifying figure - why I do not know, but often she is. I think it's an idea to be exploited.
I love the Wendy Syred boutique in Taunton. She has fantastic off-the-wall stuff, such as Vivienne Westwood. And I always have huge success in Omah Shoes, which is also in Taunton. I've got such small feet - three and a half - but I always find my size there.
I'm still a size 10, but it's the toning that's getting me down, and I think it can only get more difficult as I get older. Either one gets very thin and scrawny, or one puts on poundage; I'm definitely not going to pile on the pounds, so I can expect to end up scrawny.
I have white hair now, but a lot of it, and I'm still very glamorous, and so I won't disappoint, I hope! I'll still be wearing the tight leather trousers and high-heel boots, regardless of what age!
When eating out while on tour, a great place to get vegetarian food is Thai restaurants, as they have lots of options. I absolutely adore salad and vegetables - I will eat salad until it's coming out of my ears. Although I think it's great in any form, my particular favourite has to be beetroot salad.
I've always been unhappy with my teeth. I've lost most of them from my bottom jaw, and those in the upper jaw have been screwed in or capped. As a result, I've got great hollows under my cheeks, and my bone structure seems accentuated.
I used to play a lot of foreign women in my youth because I was prettier then. I would go for interviews, and directors would look at these sultry, exotic looks, hear this clipped accent and think the two don't go together. So they would give me a foreign accent.
The trouble with some cooking is that the real flavours get cancelled out by the wine, cream, and butter sauces.
