Blaze Starr is a name that resounds with a remarkable and colorful legacy as a burlesque dancer, stripper, actress, and comedian. Born Fannie Belle Fleming in 1932 in Wayne County, West Virginia, her life story is one of overcoming challenges and trailblazing as a woman in the entertainment industry. Her stage moniker aptly reflects her fierce and fiery personality, as well as her sensuality that captivated audiences across America.
As an artist, Starr's rise to fame did not come without struggles, as she started performing in bars and nightclubs at a young age. Despite the criticisms and prejudices of her chosen profession, she persisted and eventually found her way to the top of the industry, sharing the same billing with iconic performers such as Elvis Presley and Louis Armstrong. She has since become a legend in her own right, with her signature red hair and hourglass figure etched in the annals of popular culture.
Today, as we celebrate the life of Blaze Starr, we look back at her enduring legacy, including her net worth and famous performances. In this article, we delve into her biography, age, height, figure, and earnings, providing you with everything you need to know about the legendary burlesque performer.
Blaze Starr: Biography
Blaze Starr is widely known for her stage performances as a burlesque dancer and her affair with Louisiana Governor Earl Long.
She was born in West Virginia on April 10, 1932, and her real name was Fannie Belle Fleming. She had a challenging childhood and started working in a nightclub at the age of 15.
Blaze Starr moved to Baltimore, Maryland, in 1950 to pursue her career as a burlesque dancer. She became an instant hit and was known for her fiery performances that captivated audiences.
Blaze's career skyrocketed, and she made several appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show and The Jack Paar Program. Her fame also attracted the attention of Louisiana Governor Earl Long, and they started an affair that made national headlines.
Blaze Starr retired from her career as a burlesque dancer in 1974 and opened her own nightclub in Baltimore. She passed away on June 15, 2015, at the age of 83.
Blaze Starr's legacy as a burlesque dancer and her affair with Earl Long have made her an important figure in American pop culture.
Early Life and Childhood
Blaze Starr, whose birth name was Fannie Belle Fleming, was born on April 10, 1932, in Wayne County, West Virginia. She was one of 11 children born to a poor family. Starr's family moved to South Point, Ohio, when she was a child.
Despite her impoverished upbringing, Starr excelled in school and was known for being an excellent student. When she was 15 years old, she dropped out of high school and moved to Washington D.C. to pursue a career in entertainment.
Starr struggled to make ends meet in the city, working various jobs to support herself. She eventually landed a job as a waitress at the Mayflower Hotel, where she caught the eye of a local club owner. He offered her a job as a burlesque dancer, and Starr jumped at the opportunity.
- Blaze Starr was born Fannie Belle Fleming in Wayne County, West Virginia in 1932.
- Her family moved to South Point, Ohio, when she was a child.
- Despite her impoverished upbringing, she was an excellent student.
- Starr dropped out of high school at 15 and moved to Washington D.C. to pursue a career in entertainment.
- She worked various jobs to support herself before becoming a burlesque dancer in a local club.
Career in Burlesque
Blaze Starr began working in burlesque at the young age of 15, when she left her home in West Virginia and moved to Washington D.C. to pursue a career in show business. At first, Blaze performed in small theatrical productions and burlesque shows, showcasing her stunning looks and seductive style of dancing.
Blaze's career took off in the 1950s, when she became a headliner at Baltimore's Two O'Clock Club. It was there that she met Louisiana Governor Earl Long, with whom she had a highly publicized affair. The scandal brought Blaze national attention, and she became one of the most famous burlesque performers of her time.
- Blaze was known for her signature striptease performance, which involved a red velvet robe and a candelabra. She would slowly remove the robe and perform a sensual dance, captivating audiences with her beauty and charisma.
- Blaze also took her act on the road, performing in cities across the country and even internationally. She was a popular performer in Las Vegas and appeared in several films, including "Blaze Starr Goes Nudist" and "Blaze Starr and the Showgirl."
Despite the controversy surrounding burlesque at the time, Blaze was proud of her career and viewed it as a form of art. She retired from performing in the 1980s and lived out the rest of her life in West Virginia, where she continued to be a beloved figure in her community.
Personal Life and Relationships
Blaze Starr was known for her fiery stage performances and her romantic relationships with high profile individuals. Her most famous relationship was with Louisiana Governor Earl K. Long, with whom she had a passionate affair that scandalized the state. Despite their differences in social status and political affiliations, the two remained close until Long's death in 1960.
Starr was also married three times, first to a man named Earl Kellar when she was just 15 years old. The marriage was short-lived and ended in divorce after Kellar was sentenced to prison for burglary. She later married nightclub owner and gangster Earl "Tiny" Simpson, who she claimed was abusive towards her. Their marriage also ended in divorce, but not before Simpson tried to shoot Starr with a pistol.
Starr's third and final marriage was to actor Bobby Burns, who she remained with until his death in 1996. The couple was known for their love of horses and enjoyed spending time together at their ranch in Mississippi. Despite her tumultuous romantic past, Starr was remembered by many as a kind and caring person who always put her family first.
- Married to Earl Kellar (divorced)
- Married to Earl "Tiny" Simpson (divorced)
- Married to Bobby Burns (until his death)
Blaze Starr: Physical Appearance and Measurements
Blaze Starr, born in 1932, was a renowned American burlesque dancer and adult film actress. She was known for her voluptuous figure and striking beauty. Her physical appearance played a significant role in her success.
Blaze Starr was 5 feet 6 inches tall, which is considered relatively tall for a woman. Her hourglass figure and well-toned body made her the center of attention wherever she went. Her body measurements were 37-23-37 inches, which was considered quintessential for women in the 50s and 60s.
Her long red hair was a defining feature, which she often styled in a bouffant. She was known for her impeccable makeup, which accentuated her stunning facial features. Her bold and confident demeanor added to her overall charm.
To maintain her figure, Blaze Starr followed a strict diet and exercise regimen. She was committed to her fitness and frequently indulged in swimming, walking, and other physical activities.
Overall, Blaze Starr's physical appearance and measurements played a vital role in her career and made her an iconic figure in the entertainment industry.
Net Worth and Legacy
Blaze Starr's net worth during her career as a burlesque dancer was estimated to be around $100,000. This was a significant amount of money during the 1950s and 1960s. She made most of her income from performing in clubs and theaters across the United States. After retiring from dancing, Blaze Starr went on to own her own successful nightclubs, which helped add to her net worth.
Blaze Starr's legacy continues to influence popular culture today. She was known for her charisma and stage presence, which inspired other performers and artists. Her life story has been the subject of books, films, and documentaries, which have introduced her to new generations of fans. Blaze Starr's contribution to the entertainment industry is significant and continues to be celebrated by many.
- She was known for challenging societal norms and pushing boundaries with her performances.
- Her legacy has influenced modern-day burlesque performers who draw inspiration from her boldness.
- She was an advocate for women's rights and body positivity, which is still relevant today.
Overall, Blaze Starr's net worth and legacy have left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry. Her success as a performer and businesswoman have inspired others to pursue their dreams and challenge societal norms. Her story will continue to be an inspiration for many generations to come.
FAQ
Who is Blaze Starr and what is her biography?
Blaze Starr, born Fannie Belle Fleming, was an American burlesque dancer and actress who gained fame in the 1950s. She was born on April 10, 1932, in West Virginia and began her career as a dancer at the age of 15. She achieved notoriety for her affair with Louisiana Governor Earl Long and was the subject of the 1989 film "Blaze" which starred Paul Newman and Lolita Davidovich.
What was Blaze Starr's figure like?
Blaze Starr was known for her hourglass figure, which was curvy and voluptuous. She had a small waist, wide hips, and large breasts which she often showed off in her burlesque performances. Her measurements were reportedly 38-25-36.
What was Blaze Starr's height?
Blaze Starr was 5' 4" (162 cm) tall.
What was Blaze Starr's net worth?
Blaze Starr's net worth at the time of her death in 2015 was estimated to be around $300,000. However, it's important to note that this is a rough estimate and her true net worth may have been higher or lower depending on various factors.
How did Blaze Starr's affair with Governor Earl Long affect her career?
Blaze Starr's affair with Governor Earl Long caused a great deal of controversy at the time and negatively affected her career in some ways. She was banned from performing in certain states and her nightclub was shut down temporarily as a result of the scandal. However, she was also able to use the attention to her advantage and gained even more notoriety and fame as a result.
