About
Dorothy Lamour, born December 10, 1914, was an American actress and singer. She is best remembered for her roles in the "Road to..." films, a series of comedy adventures alongside Bing Crosby and Bob Hope. These films, known for their blend of slapstick humor, ad-libbed dialogue, and insider Hollywood jokes, solidified her status as a beloved Hollywood icon. Lamour's exotic beauty and captivating stage presence made her a popular pin-up girl during World War II, where she became famous for selling war bonds.
Before Fame
Before achieving widespread fame on the silver screen, Dorothy Lamour honed her talents in radio. She had a fifteen-minute weekly musical program on NBC Radio, showcasing her vocal abilities and developing her performance skills. This early experience provided a foundation for her future success in film and solidified her passion for entertaining audiences.
Career Highlights
Lamour's career reached its peak with the "Road to..." series, starting with "Road to Singapore" (1940). Her ability to hold her own against the comedic duo of Crosby and Hope made the movies incredibly popular. Beyond the "Road to..." films, Lamour demonstrated her versatility in films such as "The Greatest Show on Earth" (1952), a Cecil B. DeMille epic, and "Creepshow 2" (1987), showcasing her ability to transition into different genres. She also appeared in television series, including an episode of "Murder, She Wrote" in 1987 with Angela Lansbury.
Trivia
- Her big screen debut was in 1940's "Road to Singapore," the first "Road to..." film.
- She was a popular pin-up girl during World War II.
- She was known for wearing a sarong in many of her films, which became a signature look.
- Lamour was a successful singer as well as an actress, recording several popular songs.
Family Life
Dorothy Lamour's personal life included two marriages. She was married to bandleader Herbie Kay from 1935 to 1939. Later, she married William Ross Howard III in 1943, a union that lasted until his death in 1978. She had two children from her second marriage.
