Katherine Hepburn was an American actress known for her fierce independence and distinctive voice. Born on May 12, 1907, in Hartford, Connecticut, she became one of Hollywood's leading ladies, starring in films such as Guess Who's Coming to Dinner and The African Queen. Hepburn's career spanned over six decades, earning her four Academy Awards for Best Actress, a record that still stands. Hepburn was known for her strong-willed characters and often challenged traditional gender roles in her films. She was also an advocate for women's rights and maintained a private life away from the public eye, often retreating to her home in Connecticut. Hepburn passed away on June 29, 2003, leaving behind a legacy as one of cinema's greatest actresses.