10 Actors Who Peaked Way Too Soon

The great Julie Andrews is a darling of stage and screen, a true thespian legend. She has performed in some of the most iconic films ever made, won every award under the sun, has lived a fascinating life, and seems like an all-round good egg. It’s fair to say they don’t make ‘em like her anymore.

It’s also fair to say that, on screen at least, by far the best films of her career came within the first couple of years. Her first live action role was as Mary Poppins. That netted her an Oscar and remains one of the most beloved family films ever made.

From there she starred in The Americanisation Of Emily, written by the brilliant Paddy Chayefsky, then onto The Sound Of Music, followed by Torn Curtain, directed by Alfred Hitchcock.

This shouldn’t be taken as a knock on Andrews, who did plenty more great work throughout her career as an actress and as a singer. This was a truly rare start to working life, though. Two all time greats, two chances to work with incredible collaborators. Follow that.