She began her career as a model and was discovered for films by director Alfred Hitchcock, who saw her in a commerical and cast her in "The Birds" (1963; with Rod Taylor). "Marnie" (1964), a psychological thriller from the novel by Winston Graham, was Hedren's second Hitchcock assignment. Although Hitchcock continued to have Hedren in mind for several other films after "Marnie", the actress had become increasingly uncomfortable with his possessive manner and she declined any further work with him. Other directors who wanted to hire her had to go through Hitchcock, who would inform them she was unavailable. "It grew to be impossible. He was a very controlling type of person, and I guess I'm not about to be controlled", said Hedren, who bought out her contract. Ending their professional relationship on a sour note, she recalled, "He said, 'Well, I'll ruin your career.' And he did." ** Hedren's daughter is actress Melanie Griffith.** also *** She was named Nathalie Hedren, but given the nikname Tippi as a baby by her Swedish father from the Swedish "Tupsa" which means sweetheart. ***