Dorothy Lamour

Early Life

Mary Leta Dorothy Slaton, known as Dorothy Lamour, was born on December 10, 1914, in New Orleans, Louisiana. Raised in a modest household by her single mother, Carmen, Lamour faced early challenges, including poverty and the instability of her parents' marriages. Despite these hardships, she found solace in her community, recalling a touching moment from her childhood when a local store owner gifted her a football instead of a doll she wanted. This act of kindness left a lasting impression on her. Lamour left school at 14 to support her family, working as a secretary while also entering beauty pageants, eventually being crowned Miss New Orleans in 1931.

Career

In 1936, Lamour moved to Hollywood, where she signed a contract with Paramount Pictures. Her breakthrough role came in "The Jungle Princess," where she became famous for her iconic sarong, a look that would define her career. She starred alongside notable actors like Bing Crosby and Bob Hope in the beloved "Road to..." film series, showcasing her talents as both an actress and a singer. Lamour's musical contributions included hit songs such as "Moonlight and Shadows" and "The Moon of Manakoora," solidifying her status in the entertainment industry. Over her career, she released several albums, including "A Collection of Favorite Hawaiian Songs" and "Thanks for the Memory."

Personal Life

Lamour's personal life was marked by two marriages. Her first was to orchestra leader Herbie Kay, which lasted from 1935 to 1939. In 1943, she married Air Force captain William Ross Howard III, with whom she had two sons. Lamour was politically active, supporting the California Republican Party and Ronald Reagan's presidency. She lived in various locations, including Baltimore and Palm Springs, until her passing in 1996. Lamour's legacy as a talented actress and singer is commemorated with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating her contributions to film and music.