Hyacinth Hazel O'Higgins, affectionately known as Hazell, was a captivating and talented British performer who dazzled audiences with her extraordinary beauty, captivating stage presence, and impressive vocal range. Dubbed "Britain's answer to Betty Grable," she was renowned for her striking physical attributes, boasting what was described as "the longest legs in show business." Her exceptional energy and charisma made her a standout in the world of musical theatre and revues.
Born with a silver spoon, Hyacinth received a comprehensive education at Mountview, Streatham, and private tutelage in acting from esteemed instructors Miss E.C. Massey and Mrs. Grandison-Clark. She began her illustrious stage career as a teenager in the 1937 West End chorus line of "On Your Toes" at the Palace Theatre.
During the war years, Hyacinth's exceptional talents were utilized to entertain British troops, touring the Middle East, Italy, and Austria as a member of E.N.S.A. Her remarkable versatility and adaptability allowed her to excel in a wide range of roles, including critically acclaimed performances in "Pygmalion" (1951),"The Beggar's Opera" (1968),and "Fiddler on the Roof" (1969).
Hyacinth's international success was exemplified by her iconic portrayal of 'Mrs. Squeezum' in the period romp "Lock Up Your Daughters" (1959),a role she performed over 2000 times in Britain and Australia during a three-year period. Her unforgettable performance as Dixie Collins, an aging movie star, in "Expresso Bongo" (1958) remains one of her most memorable and endearing characters.
Despite her remarkable talents, versatility, and captivating on-stage presence, Hyacinth never achieved widespread recognition in the film industry. Her untimely death, at the age of somewhere between 48 and 50, was a tragic and unexpected event, occurring while she was performing in a West End production of "Fiddler on the Roof."
