Peggy Wood

Peggy Wood was born on February 9, 1892 in Brooklyn, New York, and was a major stage and film actress whose career spanned over six decades. She began her career in the theater and established herself as a talented actress before transitioning into film in the 1930s. Peggy Wood began singing lessons at the age of eight and made her debut as a singer in 1910 in the chorus of the operetta Naughy Marietta.

However, she is best known for her role as Mother Abbess, the wise and compassionate head of the abbey where Maria is a postulant, in the popular movie “The Sound of Music” (1965). Her portrayal of the wise and kind Mother Superior, who stands by Maria in difficult times, became one of the emotional highlights of the movie. Her performance of the song “Climb Ev'ry Mountain” in particular remains unforgettable for many viewers and shows her impressive vocal abilities, which radiated deep compassion and strength.

She was nominated for an Oscar for her performance in “The Sound of Music” as well as a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actress, capping off a long and impressive career. She continued her acting work into her later years, appearing in many more plays and television productions.

Peggy Wood died on March 18, 1978 at the age of 86. Her role in “The Sound of Music” remains a lasting legacy that demonstrates her extraordinary ability to portray characters with depth and humanity.