Ethel Merman was a renowned American actress and singer known for her powerhouse vocals and commanding presence on stage. Born in 1908, Merman grew up in Queens, New York, and began performing in vaudeville at a young age. Over the course of her career, she would become synonymous with Broadway and the Golden Age of American musical theatre.
With a voice described as "brassy" and "unapologetic," Merman lit up the stage in classic shows like "Annie Get Your Gun" and "Gypsy." Her performances were often larger than life, and her signature belt has been emulated by countless performers since.
Despite her success, Merman was also known for her no-nonsense attitude and sharp wit. In her personal life, she was married and divorced four times, and was not afraid to speak her mind - even when it ruffled feathers.
Today, Merman remains a beloved figure in American theatre history. Her net worth at the time of her death in 1984 was estimated to be around $10 million, though her true legacy lies in the countless performers she inspired and the enduring impact of her performances.
Ethel Merman: Biography and Early Life
Ethel Merman was an American actress, singer, and musical theatre performer who was born on January 16, 1908, in Astoria, Queens, New York City. Merman was known for her distinctive and powerful voice, and her performances on both stage and screen made her a legend in the entertainment industry.
She was the daughter of a restless father who moved the family from place to place, and a mother who loved to sing and taught Ethel to sing as well. Growing up, Ethel showed a natural talent for singing and performing, and she frequently appeared in school plays and local productions throughout her childhood.
After finishing high school, Merman worked a variety of odd jobs before landing her first professional singing gig at a Brooklyn nightclub. She quickly gained recognition for her powerful voice and was soon cast in her first Broadway musical, "Girl Crazy," in 1930. From there, Merman went on to star in some of the most iconic musicals of all time, including "Annie Get Your Gun," "Gypsy," and "Anything Goes."
Merman's career spanned over five decades, and she remained one of the most beloved and revered performers in show business until her death in 1984.
Height, Figure, and Personal Life
Ethel Merman was known for her statuesque height and commanding presence on stage. She stood at an impressive 5 feet 8 inches tall, which was considered quite tall for a woman during her time. Her figure was also striking, with broad shoulders and a strong build that highlighted her powerful voice and stage presence.
In her personal life, Ethel Merman was married four times and had two children. She was known for her strong personality and no-nonsense attitude, which often caused conflicts both on and off stage. However, she was also known for her kindness and generosity, especially when it came to her fans.
Despite her fame and success, Ethel Merman valued her privacy and was known to be quite guarded about her personal life. She rarely gave interviews or spoke about her relationships, preferring to let her work speak for itself.
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches
- Figure: Broad shoulders and strong build
- Personal life: Married four times, two children, known for strong personality and guarded about personal life
Physical Characteristics and Relationships
Ethel Merman was known for her powerful voice and commanding presence on stage. Standing at 5'9", she had a striking figure and often wore glamorous outfits to accentuate her frame.
Merman was married four times and had two children. Her first marriage was to William Smith, with whom she had her daughter, Ethel "Pickles" Levitt. She then wed Robert Levitt, a Broadway producer, and had her son, Robert Jr. Her third husband was actor Ernest Borgnine, but the marriage only lasted 32 days. Her fourth and final husband was businessman Robert Six.
Throughout her career, Merman maintained close relationships with many of her co-stars. She frequently performed alongside fellow Broadway legends such as Mary Martin and Carol Channing, and she was known for her friendships with actors such as Jimmy Durante and Judy Garland.
- Height: 5'9"
- Marriages: 4
- Children: 2
Professional Career and Achievements
Throughout her career, Ethel Merman was known for her powerful voice and commanding stage presence. She began her career in the 1930s and quickly became known for her work in Broadway musicals, including "Annie Get Your Gun" and "Gypsy."
Merman also made a number of film appearances, including in the classic films "Anything Goes" and "Alexander's Ragtime Band."
Throughout her career, Merman received numerous awards and accolades for her work on the stage and screen. She was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 1972 and received a Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1986.
In addition to her work in the entertainment industry, Merman was also known for her activism and philanthropy. She was a vocal supporter of civil rights and was involved in a number of charitable organizations throughout her life.
- Inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame (1972)
- Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement (1986)
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (1960)
- Recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom (1983)
Overall, Ethel Merman left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and on those who worked with her. Her powerful voice and magnetic stage presence continue to inspire performers today.
Broadway and Film Successes
Ethel Merman had an illustrious career on Broadway, appearing in over a dozen musicals throughout her career. Her breakout role came in 1930 when she starred as Reno Sweeney in Cole Porter's "Anything Goes." The show was a huge success, running for over a year and cementing Merman's status as a Broadway icon.
Her other notable roles included Annie Oakley in "Annie Get Your Gun," Mama Rose in "Gypsy," and Mrs. Sally Adams in "Call Me Madam." Merman's powerful voice and commanding presence made her a natural fit for these larger-than-life characters.
In addition to her stage work, Merman also appeared in several films, including the 1953 musical comedy "Call Me Madam" and the 1962 drama "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World." While she never achieved the same level of success in film as she did on Broadway, her performances still captivated audiences.
Overall, Ethel Merman's talents as a performer cannot be understated. Her contributions to both Broadway and Hollywood continue to be celebrated today, and her legacy lives on through the countless performers who have picked up the torch she left behind.
Legacy and Impact on Popular Culture
Ethel Merman's contributions to the entertainment industry have left a lasting impact on popular culture. Her powerful voice and commanding presence on stage have set a standard for performers to aspire to.
Merman's roles in classic Broadway musicals such as "Annie Get Your Gun" and "Gypsy" have become iconic, with many of her songs still being performed today. Her influence can be seen in modern-day musicals, as well as in the careers of Broadway stars who have followed in her footsteps.
Merman's legacy has also extended to film and television, with her appearances in movies such as "Alexander's Ragtime Band" and "There's No Business Like Show Business". Her performances on variety shows and specials have been treasured by audiences for decades.
Overall, Ethel Merman's contributions to the entertainment industry have cemented her place as a legend and a trailblazer. Her influence continues to be felt in the world of musical theater and beyond.
Musical Influence and Awards
Ethel Merman's powerful voice and commanding stage presence made her one of the most recognizable figures in musical theater history. Her influence on the genre cannot be overstated, as she originated many iconic roles and inspired countless performers to pursue careers in theater.
Throughout her career, Merman received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to the world of musical theater. She was nominated for four Tony Awards and won one in 1951 for her performance in "Call Me Madam". She also received a Special Tony Award in 1972 for her lifetime achievement in the theater.
In addition to her Tony Awards, Merman was also honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in recognition of her achievements in film and theater. She was inducted into the American Theatre Hall of Fame in 1972 and received a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1983.
- Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical - 1951
- Special Tony Award - 1972
Merman's legacy continues to inspire performers today, and her impact on musical theater will be felt for generations to come.
Net Worth and Final Years
Ethel Merman's net worth at the time of her death was estimated to be around $10 million. She had amassed her wealth through her successful career in theater, film, and television.
Despite her success, Merman's later years were marked by disappointment and tragedy. She suffered from alcoholism and had a tumultuous personal life, including four failed marriages. She also experienced health problems, including a battle with breast cancer in the late 1970s.
Merman's final years were spent in her Beverly Hills home, where she died on February 15, 1984, at the age of 76. Her legacy in the entertainment industry, however, remains strong to this day, with many considering her one of the greatest Broadway performers of all time.
Financial Status and Death
Ethel Merman had a successful career and accumulated a significant net worth throughout her life. Although the exact amount of her wealth is not publicly disclosed, it is estimated to be around several million dollars.
After retiring from her decades-long career in show business, Merman lived a comfortable life in her Beverly Hills home. She also invested in stocks and owned several properties.
Unfortunately, Merman passed away on February 15, 1984, at the age of 76 due to a heart attack. Her death was a shock to her fans and the entertainment industry. Merman was buried in Westchester Hills Cemetery in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, next to her second husband, Robert Levitt.
Merman's legacy and impact on the theater world have continued long after her death. Her incredible talent, unforgettable performances, and timeless songs continue to inspire new generations of performers and fans alike.
FAQ
Who is Ethel Merman?
Ethel Merman was an American actress and singer. She was one of the most successful Broadway performers of her time.
What is Ethel Merman's net worth?
There is no definitive information on Ethel Merman's net worth. However, it is estimated that she amassed a significant fortune throughout her career.
How tall was Ethel Merman?
Ethel Merman was 5 feet 8 inches tall (173 cm).
What is Ethel Merman's most famous role?
Ethel Merman is perhaps best known for playing the role of Rose in the original Broadway production of "Gypsy."
When did Ethel Merman pass away?
Ethel Merman passed away on February 15, 1984 at the age of 76.
