A Glimpse into the Private Worlds of a Public Icon
The Dawn of a Musical Talent in Surrey
By the tender age of 11, Julie Andrews was already a seasoned performer, gracing stages and even singing for royalty. Her family's move to a house in Walton-on-Thames, Surrey, with its sprawling garden and tennis court, marked a significant period in her formative years. This home, once servants' quarters, held a unique family history and provided a backdrop for her burgeoning talent.
From London Stages to Manhattan High-Rises: The Ascendant Career of a Young Star
At 17, Andrews’s career took off with a starring role in London's “The Boy Friend,” propelling her to Broadway. Initially, New York felt overwhelming, but her success soon led to an upgrade in living arrangements. By 1956, at age 20, she resided in a comfortable apartment at the Hotel Park Chambers while captivating audiences as Eliza Doolittle in “My Fair Lady.” This period saw her sharing her life with future husband, artist Tony Walton.
A Gilded Cage: Luxury Living at the Savoy Hotel
Returning to London's West End for “My Fair Lady” in 1958, Andrews enjoyed the opulence of a Savoy Hotel suite, offering stunning views of the Thames. This iconic setting became the stage for a memorable post-opening night dinner party, where she celebrated rave reviews with esteemed friends like Maggie Smith and Claire Bloom.
Domestic Bliss in Belgravia: The Early Years of Marriage
Following her marriage to Tony Walton in May 1959, Andrews settled into a charming flat in London's exclusive Belgravia neighborhood. This intimate space in Eaton Square, where Walton also pursued his design work, provided a sanctuary for the newlyweds amidst the demands of her thriving stage career.
New Beginnings on the Upper East Side: A Companion's Tale
In 1960, the couple relocated to New York for Andrews's role in Broadway's “Camelot,” establishing a residence on the Upper East Side. Their apartment in the prestigious New York River House became home not only to them but also to their beloved poodle, Shy, who often accompanied Andrews to the theater.
Shy, the Canine Muse: An Unforgettable Bond
Shy, the poodle, left an indelible mark on Andrews's life, even inspiring a children's book co-authored with her daughter. The story of Shy's vocal companionship during Andrews's singing exercises, and her charming attempts to join in, highlights the deep bond they shared, despite the occasional need to spare the neighbors.
A Turning Point: Manhattan Horizons and Hollywood Beckons
A 1961 photograph captures Andrews contemplating the Manhattan skyline, symbolizing a pivotal moment. The offer to star in Disney's “Mary Poppins,” following her unexpected non-selection for the film adaptation of “My Fair Lady,” marked a dramatic shift. The birth of her daughter, Emma, and a subsequent move to Hollywood three months later, heralded a vibrant new chapter in her life and career.
The Allure of La-La-Land: Diverse Homes in the Golden State
Upon arriving in Hollywood for “Mary Poppins,” Andrews and her family were comfortably housed in a rented Tudor home in Toluca Lake. By 1965, they had embraced the Californian lifestyle, renting a Spanish-style house in Coldwater Canyon while also maintaining properties in Wimbledon, England, and the British Island of Alderney, showcasing her global presence.
A Life of Wanderlust and Love: From Swiss Chalets to Malibu Shores
After marrying her second husband, Blake Edwards, Andrews found solace and inspiration in Gstaad, Switzerland, eventually making it their legal residence alongside homes in Beverly Hills and Malibu. A candid 1977 photo from her father's home captures a moment of personal challenge amidst her international lifestyle. The narrative underscores the constant juggle of personal and professional commitments across continents.
Malibu Dreams: A Coastal Haven and Creative Hub
The early 1970s saw Andrews fall in love with Malibu, renting a beach house that offered the perfect blend of sea and countryside. By 1975, she and Edwards, having adopted two daughters, purchased land in the area. Their beachfront property became a filming location for Edwards's movie “S.O.B.” in 1980, further intertwining their professional and personal lives in this idyllic setting. After two decades, they moved to Brentwood, and following Edwards's passing, Andrews found a new home in Sag Harbor, close to her daughter and creative partner, Emma Walton Hamilton, continuing her legacy through children's literature.