Who starred as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's?

Audrey Hepburn starred as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Blake Edwards’s 1961 romantic comedy adapted Truman Capote’s 1958 novella and made Holly one of the most recognizable characters in American cinema.

Holly is presented as a stylish, ambitious New Yorker who lives by her charm, social connections, and hope of finding a secure future. The film pairs her with George Peppard as Paul Varjak, a struggling writer who becomes her neighbor and confidant. Their relationship drives the story, even though the movie changes the novella’s darker tone and several character details.

Capote reportedly preferred Marilyn Monroe for the role, but Monroe declined. Hepburn’s performance became defining, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. Her opening-credit appearance in a black Givenchy dress also helped turn the little black dress into a lasting fashion icon.

The film is also remembered for Henry Mancini and Johnny Mercer’s song “Moon River,” while Mickey Rooney’s performance as Mr. Yunioshi has since drawn widespread criticism for its caricatured depiction.