A legendary Broadway star and powerful vocalist, known for belting out iconic show tunes and starring in classic movie musicals.
Known for her powerful, distinctive voice and leading roles in musical theater, Ethel Merman is an American actress and singer who has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. With a career spanning over four decades, she has been synonymous with iconic Broadway shows and films, earning her the title of the "undisputed First Lady of the musical comedy stage."
Born on January 16, 1908, in Astoria, Queens, Ethel Agnes Zimmermann was an only child to Edward Zimmermann, an accountant, and Agnes Gardner Zimmermann, a schoolteacher. Her parents, though strict about church attendance, encouraged her early interest in music and performance.
Merman's professional career began in the 1920s, performing in small-time vaudeville and stage shows. Her big break came in 1930 when she landed a role in the Broadway musical Girl Crazy, which featured the iconic Gershwin song "I Got Rhythm."
The 1930s saw Merman's rise to stardom, with starring roles in Broadway shows like Anything Goes (1934) and Red, Hot and Blue (1936). Her powerful voice and charismatic stage presence earned her critical acclaim and public adoration.
In the 1940s and 1950s, Merman continued to dominate the Broadway stage, starring in Annie Get Your Gun (1946), Call Me Madam (1950), and Gypsy (1959). Her performances in these shows cemented her status as a musical comedy legend.
In addition to her stage success, Merman also made a significant impact on the big screen. Her film roles in Anything Goes (1936), Call Me Madam (1953), There's No Business Like Show Business (1954), and It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963) showcased her versatility as a performer.
Merman's contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including:
Ethel Merman's impact on musical comedy is still felt today, with her iconic performances and signature songs continuing to inspire new generations of performers. Her legacy serves as a testament to her dedication, talent, and passion for the craft.
As the "undisputed First Lady of the musical comedy stage," Ethel Merman's influence on American entertainment is immeasurable. Her remarkable career, spanning over four decades, has left an indelible mark on the world of musical theater and film.
"I've always wanted to be a singer, and I've always wanted to be an actress. I've been lucky enough to have been able to do both."
"I'm not a singer, I'm a belter. I can belt a song into the next room."
Ethel Merman married four times, including to actors Edward F. Langley and Ernest Borgnine. She had two children, Robert and Ethel Louise, from her first marriage.
Merman was a longtime resident of The Dakota apartment building in New York City, where she lived until her death on February 15, 1984.
Her life and legacy continue to inspire and entertain audiences, cementing her place as one of the greatest performers of the 20th century.
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