Kim Novak Turns 91: Inside Her Life with New Look as She Chose ‘Normal Life’ with Husband Far from Hollywood

• At 21, Kim Novak's Hollywood debut in "Pushover" set the stage for her storied career.
• Walking away from the limelight over 50 years ago, Novak found solace and identity in art and nature.
• Recently celebrating her 91st birthday, Novak reflects on a fulfilling life, embracing tranquility on the Oregon coast.

Kim Novak's journey from a silver screen siren to a serene artist encapsulates a life lived on her terms. Once Hollywood's leading lady, Novak's story is a narrative of self-preservation and authenticity.

Born Marilyn Pauline Novak, she was only 21 when she graced the silver screen in the 1954 film noir "Pushover," sharing scenes with Fred McMurray, who was significantly her senior.

The actress's youthful exuberance on set was evident when she humorously noted the vintage of McMurray's trenchcoat. This innocence and vivacity propelled her to star in the Oscar-winning film "Picnic," where she played "Madge," capturing hearts alongside William Holden.

By 25, Novak had etched her name in cinematic history with her dual roles in "Vertigo," starring alongside Ellen Corby. Playing both the enigmatic Madeleine and the unassuming Judy, she explored the complex facets of illusion and identity. The roles defined her career, setting a high bar for her subsequent performances in "The Man With the Golden Arm" and "Pal Joey."

Despite the stardom, the allure of Hollywood's golden handcuffs couldn't tether Novak's spirit. The pressures and loss of self that came with being the world's box office darling pushed her to seek refuge far from the studio lights.

"I had to leave to survive," Novak shared in a February 2021 interview, reflecting on her decision to drive away in a van, first to Carmel, California, and later to Oregon. Her escape to Oregon was more than a retreat; it was a renaissance of her true self, as an artist and an individual. She expressed:

"I lost a sense of who I truly was and what I stood for. I fought all the time back in Hollywood to keep my identity so you do whatever you have to do to hold on to who you are and what you stand for."

Life away from the cameras was not devoid of challenges as Novak faced health battles. In October 2010, her manager, Sue Cameron revealed that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Thankfully, it was an early detection and Novak was said to be in excellent physical condition then as she underwent treatment. Cameron shared at the time that the movie star maintained her health by working out three times a week, with a trainer.

In addition, Novak's private life was marked by a profound love story with her husband, Dr. Robert Malloy. Their 44-year marriage was built on shared passions, humor, and a love for animals.

"Bob's secret was that great sense of humor," Novak fondly remembered. Their bond was deepened by their mutual enjoyment of riding Arabian horses, an activity that brought them closer to nature and each other.

Grief also touched Novak's life, with the passing of Malloy in December 2020, her soulmate of 45 years. She penned a heartfelt tribute on her Facebook page saying for over four decades, they shared each other's love and adventures. "Now I must learn how to be satisfied with all those incredible, indelible memories!..."until we meet again, my Lov," the veteran star captioned her post.

Two months after Malloy's death, Novak honored the equine veterinarian by dedicating her art book to him. It features portraits of her parents and the animals she has helped and harbored. The visual artist explained:

"Painting's always been there to rescue me. Since Bob passed, I've done his portrait so I could communicate with him."

Painting has been a source of solace for Novak ever since her husband died. The years they shared were her happiest and things have not been the same without him.

At times, she felt like she could not carry on with life without him. To get through the unbearable loss, she lights a fire every evening and prepares something special, things that Malloy used to like.

While having mourned her spouse publicly, Novak has also had to endure public scrutiny concerning her facial appearance. In May 2023, a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Gary Moktykie, analyzed Novak's facial transformation on his YouTube channel, from over the years using before and after pictures.

Novak reportedly admitted to having fat grafting done on her face, which she lived to regret. The painter has been vocal about her appearance and online users have noted how different she looks compared to back then.

"Omg, I didn't even recognize her," said one person on the video, which displayed Novak's dramatic look in recent years. Another stated, "Her old nose was perfect!" While someone commented, "Looks like Priscilla Presley had the same surgeon." One YouTube user echoed, "Much like Priscilla Presley...both had the same look after 'surgery.'"

Despite the negative commentary on the clip, some people believe Novak still looks beautiful. In November 2023, "The Mirror Crack'd" star posted a photo of herself on social media having ice cream.

"Looking great!" commented one Facebook user. Another said, "You look fabulous, Kim!" "You look fantastic," wrote someone else.

Novak 91 on February 13, 2024, and her birthday was a quiet celebration reflective of her tranquil existence. "She’s spending her birthday having a picnic on her property with friends and lots of fudge," Cameron conveyed the simplicity and sweetness of the day.

The retired television star spends her days with loved ones. Per her social media, she enjoys exploring nature with her dogs and horses. In May 2017, she shared a picture of her and her family out on a picnic and divulged what they got up to.

The sanctuary Novak created for herself is nestled on the Oregon coast, a house of her own design, overlooking the Rogue River. It is here that she still rides her horse, Poet, contemplating ways to contribute to a world in need of peace.

Novak's friends have expressed worry over the fact that lives on her own with two dogs and four horses. Following the loss of her husband, people have asked her whether she would continue living there by herself, and she said yes. The Golden Globe Award winner said she loves her home, especially because it is on the Rogue River, which has beautiful scenery.