Vera Ellen was an American actress and dancer born on February 16, 1921, in Norwood, Ohio. She was known for her contributions to classic Hollywood musical films such as "On the Town" (1949), "White Christmas" (1954), and "The Belle of New York" (1952).
Vera Ellen started dancing at a young age and received classical ballet training. She then moved to New York City and worked as a dancer in Broadway shows. She later transitioned to film and made her debut in the musical comedy "Wonder Man" (1945).
Besides her talent in dancing and acting, Vera Ellen was also admired for her stunning figure. She stood at 5 feet 4 inches tall and maintained a slender body with a measurement of 34-22-34 inches. Her elegance and beauty made her a sought-after performer in Hollywood during the 1940s and 1950s.
Aside from her successful career in the entertainment industry, Vera Ellen was also able to amass a considerable fortune. Her net worth was estimated to be around $1 million at the time of her death on August 30, 1981, in Los Angeles, California.
This article will delve into Vera Ellen's life, her body measurements, and her net worth. Get to know more about this iconic actress and dancer who left a lasting legacy in Hollywood.
Early Life and Career
Vera Ellen was born on February 16, 1921, in Norwood, Ohio. She was the youngest of three children in her family. Her parents divorced when she was six, and she went to live with her grandparents in Cincinnati. Ellen began taking dance lessons at the age of four, and was a natural performer.
Ellen's professional career began at the age of 13 when she joined the Russell Markert Dancers in Cincinnati. She soon caught the eye of Broadway producer Larry Hart, who cast her in his musical "Very Warm for May" in 1939. Ellen rapidly rose to fame and went on to star in numerous Broadway productions including "By Jupiter" and "Words and Music."
In 1945, Ellen made her film debut in "Wonder Man," and quickly established herself as one of the most talented and versatile dancers in Hollywood. She appeared in a number of hit films throughout the 1940s and 1950s, including "On the Town," "White Christmas," and "The Phil Silvers Show."
Despite her success, Ellen suffered from health issues throughout her career. She was diagnosed with tuberculosis in the 1950s, and underwent several surgeries that forced her to take extended breaks from performing. Despite these setbacks, Ellen continued to work as a dancer and actress throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. She passed away on August 30, 1981, at the age of 60.
Rise to Fame
Vera Ellen began her career as a dancer on Broadway, appearing in several musicals in the 1940s. She caught the eye of Hollywood talent scouts and was offered a contract with MGM, where she began her film career.
Ellen's breakthrough came with her performance in "Wonder Man" (1945), in which she showcased her dynamic dancing skills alongside legendary entertainer Danny Kaye. She went on to star in numerous musicals, including "On the Town" (1949) and "White Christmas" (1954).
Ellen's combination of beauty, talent, and charisma made her a sought-after leading lady in Hollywood. Her effortless grace and precision as a dancer earned her a reputation as one of the best dancers in Hollywood history.
Throughout her career, Ellen worked with some of Hollywood's biggest names, including Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, and Bing Crosby. She was known for her professionalism and dedication to her craft, and her performances continue to inspire dancers and fans of classic Hollywood musicals to this day.
Personal Life and Relationships
Vera Ellen was known for her talent in dancing and acting, but she also had a personal life that was marked by various relationships. One of her most notable relationships was with dancer and choreographer Roland Petit.
The two met while working on the film "Anything Goes" and began dating shortly after. However, their relationship was not without its challenges and they ultimately ended things due to differing career goals and geographical distance.
Vera Ellen also had a brief marriage to millionaire businessman Robert Hightower. The two wed in 1954, but their marriage ended just two years later due to Hightower's infidelity.
Later in life, Vera Ellen battled health issues, including anorexia, and ultimately fell out of the public eye. She passed away in 1981 at the age of 60.
Despite the ups and downs of her personal life, Vera Ellen is remembered for her incredible talent and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of Vera Ellen lives on in the memories of her fans, many of whom consider her to be one of the most talented dancers and actresses in Hollywood's history. Her performances in films like "White Christmas" and "On the Town" showcased her incredible skills in tap, ballet, and jazz dance, and her collaborations with legendary actors like Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly made her a household name.
Beyond her incredible talent, Vera Ellen also left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry as a whole. She helped to popularize the concept of the "triple threat" performer - someone who could sing, dance, and act with equal skill - and inspired countless dancers and performers to pursue their dreams. Her influence can be seen in the work of many contemporary performers, including Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, and Chris Brown.
Despite passing away at a relatively young age, Vera Ellen's impact on popular culture is undeniable. Her legacy as a dancer, actress, and entertainer continues to inspire and entertain audiences around the world, and her contributions to the world of entertainment will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come.
Achievements and Estimated Net Worth of Vera Ellen
Vera Ellen was a well-known American actress and dancer who made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. Throughout her career, she starred in several movies and Broadway productions, which earned her numerous awards and accolades, including two WAC awards.
Despite her untimely death at the age of 42, her impressive achievements in the entertainment industry continue to inspire many. With her remarkable talents and dedication to her craft, Vera Ellen was able to amass a sizable net worth during her career.
Although her exact net worth is unknown, sources estimate it to be around $8 million at the time of her passing. This figure is a testament to her hard work, talent, and contributions to the entertainment industry.
Vera's successful career and lasting legacy have established her as a legendary figure in the world of entertainment. Her achievements and net worth continue to be a source of inspiration and admiration for many.
FAQ
Who was Vera Ellen?
Vera Ellen was an American actress, dancer, and singer who appeared in several Hollywood musical films in the 1940s and 1950s.
What was Vera Ellen's height?
Vera Ellen's height was 5 feet 4 inches (1.63 m).
What is Vera Ellen's net worth?
The exact net worth of Vera Ellen is unknown, but her successful career in Hollywood generated a considerable amount of wealth for her.
What was Vera Ellen's figure like?
Vera Ellen was known for her slim and petite figure. She maintained her figure through strict diet and exercise regimes.
What were some of Vera Ellen's most famous films?
Vera Ellen appeared in several successful Hollywood musical films such as "On the Town" (1949), "White Christmas" (1954), "The Belle of New York" (1952) and "Three Little Words" (1950).
