Madeline Kahn Autograph

Profession:
(née Wolfson; 1942-1999) American actress, comedian, and singer.

Year of Birth: 1942

Madeline Gail Kahn was an American actress, comedienne, singer, and voice artist. She was best known for her comedic roles in films such as Paper Moon (1973), Young Frankenstein (1974), and Blazing Saddles (1974). She was nominated for five Academy Awards, four Emmy Awards, four Golden Globe Awards, and a Tony Award.

Kahn was born on September 29, 1942, in Boston, Massachusetts. Her parents, Paula and Bernard B. Kahn, were both of Russian Jewish descent. She was raised in a middle-class Jewish family, and attended Boston Latin School and later Radcliffe College. After completing her degree, she moved to New York City, where she began performing in off-Broadway plays.

Kahn's breakout role was in the 1973 film, Paper Moon. She played the role of the con artist, Trixie Delight, opposite Ryan and Tatum O'Neal. Her performance was acclaimed by critics, and she earned her first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Her next role was in the 1974 comedy, Young Frankenstein. She played the role of the mad scientist's lab assistant, Inga. Her performance was praised, and she earned her second Academy Award nomination, this time for Best Actress.

The same year, Kahn starred in the classic western comedy, Blazing Saddles. She played the role of the chanteuse, Lili Von Shtupp. Her performance was widely praised, and she earned her third Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She also earned her first Emmy Award nomination for her performance.

Kahn went on to appear in numerous films and television shows throughout her career. She was a regular on Saturday Night Live for three seasons, and was nominated for four Emmy Awards for her work on the show. She also voiced characters in the animated films, An American Tail (1986) and The Prince of Egypt (1998).

Madeline Kahn passed away on December 3, 1999, at the age of 57. She was beloved by her fans for her unique brand of comedy and her remarkable talent. Her legacy lives on in her classic films and her unforgettable performances.