Biography
Virginia Darcy, one of the most exceptional hair stylists of her generation, was a vibrant and spirited personality—talented, fun, yet disciplined and meticulous in her craft. Known for her laughter and lively presence on set, she apprenticed at MGM, Universal, Fox, and other major studios. She applied for Local 706 membership in 1947, became a Journeyman in 1948, and over the next forty years, crafted hairstyles that have become iconic. Virginia was especially renowned for her work with Grace Kelly throughout her film and television career and was trusted to style Grace’s hair for her royal wedding. She traveled with the Kelly entourage to Monaco, attending to Grace’s hair during the journey and her stay at the palace.
Early in her career, Virginia collaborated with director Alfred Hitchcock on films such as The Birds, Marnie, The Man Who Knew Too Much, and the Alfred Hitchcock Hour. Her other film credits include Funny Girl, the original Cape Fear, and Invitation to a Gunfighter. Her contributions to the golden age of television are even more notable—she styled hair for the original Star Trek, The Munsters, McHale's Navy, Kung Fu, The Virginian, Dukes of Hazzard, The Bing Crosby Show, The Jack Benny Program, and many others. Alongside Al Fama and Dick Smith, she earned a Primetime Emmy nomination for their exceptional work on North and South in the mid-1980s. Virginia enjoyed an extraordinary career and maintained lasting friendships with actress Tippi Hedren, actor Sean Connery, and other colleagues well into her retirement.
For many years, Virginia Darcy resided in Carpinteria before moving to the Motion Picture Television Fund campus in Calabasas, which she greatly enjoyed. Sadly, her health declined at age 98, and she passed away on December 26, 2018. She is survived by her two children, Jim and Dianne Darcy; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren, Kayla Parry and Kendra; and one great-great-grandchild.
