
Is Olivia de Havilland A-List?
Yes — Olivia de Havilland is an A-list celebrity, a household name with massive fame and influence.
Reached A-list in 1939
Gone with the Wind Immortality
Lost A-list status in 1943
Dropped to B tier — De Havilland Law Victory
Ranking Timeline
Hollywood Contract and Early Success
Signed with Warner Bros. and began appearing in swashbuckling adventures opposite Errol Flynn. Her beauty and talent quickly made her a rising star in Hollywood.
Gone with the Wind Immortality
Portrayed Melanie Hamilton in 'Gone with the Wind,' one of cinema's greatest films. The role brought her international fame and an Oscar nomination, making her a major star.
De Havilland Law Victory
Won landmark lawsuit against Warner Bros., limiting contract extensions and changing Hollywood's power structure. Though temporarily blacklisted, the 'De Havilland Law' became a turning point for actors' rights.
First Oscar Win
Won Academy Award for Best Actress for 'To Each His Own,' validating her fight for artistic freedom. Her legal victory allowed her to choose more challenging and rewarding roles.
The Heiress Second Oscar
Won her second Best Actress Oscar for her powerful performance in 'The Heiress.' This triumph solidified her status as one of Hollywood's greatest dramatic actresses.
Final Film and Retirement
Appeared in her final film and largely retired from acting, having completed a storied 53-year career. She moved to Paris and became a respected elder stateswoman of cinema.
Oldest Living Oscar Winner
Celebrated as the oldest living Academy Award winner and last major star of Hollywood's Golden Age. Her longevity and legendary status brought renewed interest in her career and contributions.
Death at 104
Passed away in Paris at 104, ending one of Hollywood's most remarkable lives. Her death marked the end of an era as the last major star from cinema's golden age.
Golden Age Hollywood Legend
Remembered as one of the last great stars of Hollywood's Golden Age and a trailblazer for actors' rights. Her performances in classic films and her landmark legal victory ensure her enduring legacy as a true A-list icon of cinema history.
Last updated: February 25, 2026