Sharon Tate was an American actress and model born on January 24, 1943. In the 1960s, she began her career in television advertisements and small roles before moving on to films and modeling. Tate earned praise for her performances in both comedy and drama, becoming known as one of Hollywood’s promising newcomers.
She gained fame with roles in television shows like “The Beverly Hillbillies” and films such as “The Americanization of Emily” (1964) and “The Sandpiper” (1965). Her first major film role was in “Eye of the Devil” (1965), co-starring David Niven and Deborah Kerr. During this time, she met and began a relationship with director Roman Polanski, whom she married in January 1968.
Tate’s notable performances include the 1967 film “Valley of the Dolls” and “The Fearless Vampire Killers,” directed by Polanski. She continued to star in films like “Don’t Make Waves” (1967) and “The Wrecking Crew” (1968). Tate and Polanski became a prominent Hollywood couple, further highlighted by Polanski’s success with “Rosemary’s Baby” (1968).
Tragically, at the age of 26 and eight and a half months pregnant, Tate lost her life during a home invasion by members of the Manson family, a cult led by Charles Manson. This event shocked the nation due to its brutality and the fame of the victims.
