All The Babes
Madeline Kahn
Biography
About Madeline Kahn
Madeline Kahn, born Madeline Gail Wolfson on September 29, 1942, in Boston, Massachusetts, was an American actress known for her comedic genius. Standing at 5'3" with red hair and brown eyes, she carved a unique niche in Hollywood. Her transition from aspiring opera singer to beloved comedienne began when she realized her operatic talents were limited, pivoting instead to acting, a path her mother had also taken.
Kahn's film career peaked with roles in Mel Brooks's classics, notably as the jaded Lilli von Shtupp in Blazing Saddles and the eccentric Elizabeth in Young Frankenstein. On television, she held a recurring role in Cosby, Bill Cosby's second sitcom. Her performances earned critical acclaim, including an Oscar nomination for Paper Moon and an Emmy win for an ABC Afterschool Special in 1987.
Beyond her professional achievements, Kahn was known for her ability to blend sex appeal and hilarity, often portraying characters who were comically desperate. She passed away on December 3, 1999, at age 57, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and unique performances.
Record
Profile details
Frequently asked
What roles is Madeline Kahn best known for?
She is best known for her comedic roles in Mel Brooks films, including Lilli von Shtupp in Blazing Saddles and Elizabeth in Young Frankenstein, as well as her Oscar-nominated performance in Paper Moon.
Did Madeline Kahn have a background in opera?
She initially pursued opera but discovered she had no talent for it, so she turned to acting, a profession her mother had also followed.
How did Madeline Kahn combine sex appeal and comedy?
She often played sex-starved women who realize their desires too late, blending physical comedy with a unique charm that became her signature style.
Did you know
- Her bra cup size was B, and her measurements were 33-25-33.
- She was nominated for both an Oscar and an Emmy, winning an Emmy in 1987 for an ABC Afterschool Special.
- She had a recurring role in the sitcom Cosby, which was Bill Cosby's second sitcom.
- Her height and weight were 5'3" and 144 lbs, respectively.
- Her birth name was Madeline Gail Wolfson.
More American Actress (former) profiles
Help improve this profile
Spot something wrong or missing? Fix a detail, add a link, or share a fact. Every submission is reviewed before it goes live.
Are you Madeline Kahn?