Modeling as an infant for Ivory Soap in 1966, Brooke Shields transitioned from a child prodigy in print advertisements to a prominent film actor. Her early career was marked by significant public scrutiny surrounding her film roles, a path she navigated while pursuing higher education and sustaining a professional presence in television, stage, and literary work.
Early Career and Education
Born in Manhattan in 1965, Shields began her professional life at 11 months old under the guidance of model agent Eileen Ford. She attended the New Lincoln School and the Dwight-Englewood School in Englewood, New Jersey. In 1983, she paused her career to attend Princeton University, eventually graduating with a degree in Romance languages. Her academic background complemented her upbringing, during which she took lessons in piano, ballet, and horse riding.
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Shields made her feature film debut in 1976 with the horror film Alice, Sweet Alice. In 1978, she starred in Louis Malle’s Pretty Baby, followed by performances in The Blue Lagoon and Endless Love. Her television portfolio includes lead roles in the NBC sitcoms Suddenly Susan and Lipstick Jungle. She later appeared in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and provided voice work for the animated series Mr. Pickles and Momma Named Me Sheriff.
Controversies and Awards
Early roles often drew significant public and critical attention, including controversy over nude scenes in Pretty Baby and Just You and Me, Kid. While she received critical acclaim for some of her television work, such as two Golden Globe nominations for Suddenly Susan, she also faced negative industry recognition, receiving Golden Raspberry Awards in 1981, 1985, and 1990. She was also honored with a Theatre World Special Award in 1995 and the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.
Fast facts
- Born: 1965, Manhattan
- Education: Princeton University
- Film Debut: Alice, Sweet Alice (1976)
- Languages: English, French
- Awards: Golden Raspberry Award (1981, 1985, 1990)
- Notable TV: Suddenly Susan, Lipstick Jungle
- Citizenship: United States
Questions readers ask
Did Brooke Shields graduate from university?
Yes, she graduated from Princeton University with a bachelor's degree in Romance languages.
What was the first commercial work of Brooke Shields?
Her first modeling job was for Ivory Soap in 1966 when she was 11 months old.
Achievements
- Began modeling as an infant
- World-famous child model and young actress
- Graduated from Princeton University
- Long career in film, television, and theater
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