Mia Farrow | Biography

• By Priyanka Das
• Original : April 18, 2025

Who is Mia Farrow?

Mia Farrow is a prominent American actress, best known for her iconic role in the 1968 horror classic "Rosemary's Baby," where she portrayed a woman ensnared by mysterious and sinister forces. Born on February 9, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, Farrow is the daughter of filmmaker John Farrow and actress Maureen O'Sullivan. Her journey in acting started with an off-Broadway debut in 1963, followed by a breakout television role in the drama series "Peyton Place." Throughout her career, she has showcased a remarkable ability to depict complex, vulnerable characters, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Farrow's personal life has often garnered as much attention as her film career. She was married to the legendary singer Frank Sinatra and later to composer Andre Previn, with whom she shares three biological children and three adopted daughters. Her lengthy and tumultuous relationship with filmmaker Woody Allen made headlines after it was revealed that he had been involved with her adopted daughter, leading to a highly publicized split and custody battle. Beyond her roles in cinema, Farrow's activism work, particularly her testimony against former Liberian President Charles Taylor, further underscores her commitment to social justice and humanitarian causes.

Early Life and Education

Mia Farrow was born on February 9, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, into a family deeply rooted in the entertainment industry. She is the daughter of renowned director John Farrow and accomplished actress Maureen O'Sullivan, giving her ample opportunity to explore the world of acting from a young age. Farrow's early exposure to the film business laid the foundation for her future career, allowing her to observe the intricacies of performance and storytelling. Growing up in Hollywood, she was surrounded by artistic influences that would eventually shape her unique acting style and career choices.

Farrow’s passion for acting began to take form in her teenage years. After a brief stint in a film produced by her father, her professional journey truly started in 1963 when she made her theatrical debut in an off-Broadway production of "The Importance of Being Earnest". The following year marked a significant turning point as she became a household name for her role as Alison Mackenzie in the television series "Peyton Place". Her performances often highlighted her ability to portray vulnerable characters, a theme she would consistently revisit throughout her successful film career.

Intro to Acting and Movies

Mia Farrow, born on February 9, 1945, in Los Angeles, California, is a celebrated American actress whose notable contributions to film have made her a distinguished figure in cinema. She is the daughter of director John Farrow and actress Maureen O'Sullivan, which likely influenced her early passion for acting. Farrow’s career took off in the early 1960s, starting with her role in an off-Broadway production of “The Importance of Being Earnest.” However, she truly gained popularity with her portrayal of Alison Mackenzie in the television drama “Peyton Place,” leading to a successful transition into film.

Among her most recognized performances is her role in the iconic horror film “Rosemary's Baby” (1968), where she delivered a haunting depiction of a woman ensnared by dark forces. Farrow also starred in “The Great Gatsby” (1974), where she depicted the enchanting Daisy Buchanan opposite Robert Redford, and earned acclaim for her role in “Hannah and Her Sisters” (1986), showcasing her talent for portraying complex and vulnerable characters. Throughout her career, Farrow's films have often centered on themes of emotional struggle, demonstrating her capability to connect with audiences on a profound level.

Personal Relationships and Children

Mia Farrow's personal relationships have drawn considerable public attention over the years, often overshadowing her impressive acting career. Farrow was married to iconic singer Frank Sinatra from 1966 to 1968, a union that remains a significant part of her narrative. Following her marriage to Sinatra, she wed composer André Previn in 1970; the couple had three biological children together and adopted three more during their relationship. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1979, but their shared commitment to their children continued long after their separation.

In the 1980s, Farrow began a highly publicized relationship with filmmaker Woody Allen, with whom she collaborated on several films. Their partnership produced one biological child, Ronan, as well as two adopted children. However, their relationship ended in scandal when it was revealed that Allen had become involved with Farrow's adopted daughter, Soon-Yi Previn. The fallout from this discovery led to a contentious custody battle over their children, which Farrow ultimately won. Despite the tumultuous end to their relationship, Farrow continued to raise her children, including both her biological and adopted children, nurturing a dynamic family life amid her professional pursuits.

Tragedy

Mia Farrow's life has been marked by profound personal tragedies that have shaped both her character and her public persona. One of the darkest moments came in 2000 when her adopted daughter, Tam Farrow, succumbed to a long-term illness. This loss was a heavy blow for Farrow, who had dedicated much of her life to nurturing her children. Just a few years later, in December 2008, she faced another tragedy with the untimely death of her adopted daughter, Lark Song Previn, under circumstances that were never fully disclosed. These heartbreaking events have profoundly impacted Farrow, adding layers of complexity to her life's narrative.

The year 2016 brought further tragedy when her adopted son, Thaddeus, was found dead by suicide at the young age of 27. Thaddeus had faced significant challenges as a paraplegic, but he was also a symbol of resilience, overcoming many adversities throughout his life. In the wake of this devastating loss, Farrow expressed her sorrow on social media, describing Thaddeus as a "wonderful, courageous person" and thanking the public for their outpouring of support. These losses have been a constant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring strength of familial love in Mia Farrow's personal journey.

Recent Years

Mia Farrow remains an active figure in the entertainment industry, continuing her journey in film and television. From 2000 to 2003, she made notable guest appearances on the drama series "Third Watch," showcasing her versatility as an actress. In 2006, she played a memorable role in the remake of the classic horror film "The Omen," where she portrayed the evil nanny, adding a new layer to her impressive filmography. Farrow also starred alongside renowned actors such as Jack Black and Mos Def in the comedy "Be Kind Rewind," further demonstrating her ability to transition between genres and capture audience attention.

Farrow's personal life has often overshadowed her artistic contributions, yet she has consistently maintained a strong public presence. In 2013, she stirred media headlines by suggesting that Frank Sinatra could be the biological father of her son, Ronan, whom she described as her only official child with Woody Allen. This revelation reignited discussions about her complex relationships and the enduring impact of her past romances. Farrow's comments not only highlighted her ongoing connection to Sinatra but also showcased her candid nature in discussing her personal history publicly, engaging fans and followers in the conversation about her legacy.

Tragedy struck in Farrow's personal life as well, with the deaths of her adopted children and the profound loss of her son Thaddeus in 2016. Despite these heart-wrenching events, she continues to advocate for mental health awareness and support initiatives, honoring her children's memories. Farrow's resilience in the face of adversity has underscored her strength as a mother and a public figure. Through her ongoing work and advocacy efforts, Mia Farrow remains a significant figure in both the film industry and social commentary, embodying the struggles and triumphs of an extraordinary life.

Net Worth and Earning: Earning

Mia Farrow, a celebrated actress known for her compelling performances, particularly in iconic films like "Rosemary's Baby," has built a remarkable career in Hollywood over several decades. As of 2023, her net worth is estimated to be around $60 million. Much of her wealth stems from her successful acting career, having appeared in numerous films and TV shows since the 1960s. Farrow's work with acclaimed directors, including Woody Allen and Roman Polanski, has earned her critical acclaim and commercial success, further boosting her financial standing in the industry.

In addition to her film and television earnings, Mia Farrow has also been involved in various humanitarian efforts, contributing to causes related to child welfare and human rights. Her experiences as a mother, including raising both biological and adopted children, have influenced her activism and advocacy work, potentially providing her with another source of income through speaking engagements and interviews. Farrow’s distinctive voice in Hollywood not only enriches her legacy as an actress but also highlights her commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

FAQs

Who is Mia Farrow?

Mia Farrow is an acclaimed American actress born on February 9, 1945, known for her iconic role in the horror classic "Rosemary's Baby." She comes from a family of filmmakers, with her father being director John Farrow and her mother, actress Maureen O'Sullivan. Throughout her career, she has appeared in many notable films, showcasing her ability to portray vulnerable characters.

What are some of Mia Farrow's most notable films?

Farrow's career spans a variety of acclaimed films, including "Rosemary's Baby" (1968), which solidified her status in Hollywood, followed by "The Great Gatsby" (1974) and "Hannah and Her Sisters" (1986). Additionally, she has worked with renowned director Woody Allen on multiple projects such as "The Purple Rose of Cairo" (1985) and "Husbands and Wives" (1992).

Who has Mia Farrow been married to?

Mia Farrow has had three significant relationships in her life. She was first married to legendary singer Frank Sinatra from 1966 to 1968. Farrow later wed composer Andre Previn in 1970, with whom she had three biological children and adopted three daughters before their divorce in 1979. Additionally, she had a long relationship with director Woody Allen, with whom she shares one biological son and adopted two children.

What personal tragedies has Mia Farrow faced?

Mia Farrow has faced several personal tragedies, including the deaths of her adopted daughters. In 2000, her daughter Tam Farrow passed away after a lengthy illness. Later, Lark Song Previn died in December 2008 under undisclosed circumstances. More recently, in 2016, Farrow's adopted son Thaddeus took his own life at just 27 years old, leading to public statements of her heartbreak and loss.

How has Mia Farrow contributed to social issues?

Beyond her acting career, Mia Farrow is also known for her humanitarian efforts and activism. In 2009, she testified against former Liberian President Charles Taylor regarding war crimes and child soldiers, showcasing her dedication to human rights issues. Farrow's activism highlights her ongoing commitment to social justice and her role as an advocate for children in need.

What is Mia Farrow's current status in the entertainment industry?

Mia Farrow continues to work in both film and television. She has made guest appearances on popular TV shows such as "Third Watch" and starred in various films, including "The Omen" (2006) and "Be Kind Rewind" (2008). Farrow remains a relevant figure in the industry, known for her enduring performances and advocacy work.

What is Mia Farrow's relationship with her children?

Mia Farrow is a devoted mother to her six children. She has biological and adopted children from her marriages and relationships. Farrow's commitment to her children is evident in her activism and public statements, emphasizing her role as a nurturing figure in their lives while navigating her complicated personal history.