Sheree North

Early Life

Sheree North, born Dawn Shirley Crang on January 17, 1932, in Los Angeles, California, was the daughter of June and Richard Crang. After her mother remarried, she adopted the name Dawn Shirley Bethel.

Career

North's career began with her film debut as an uncredited extra in "Excuse My Dust" (1951). She gained recognition as a chorus girl in "Here Come the Girls" (1953) and adopted her stage name shortly thereafter. Her Broadway debut in the musical "Hazel Flagg" earned her a Theatre World Award, and she reprised her role in the film adaptation, "Living It Up" (1954). In 1954, she signed a four-year contract with 20th Century-Fox, where the studio aimed to position her as a successor to Marilyn Monroe. Despite being tested for leading roles in major productions, North faced challenges, including a scandal involving an erotic film, which the studio used to generate publicity.

Personal Life

Sheree North was married four times and had two daughters. Her first marriage at age 16 ended in divorce, followed by two more short-lived marriages. At the time of her death, she was married to Phillip "Phill" Norman. Notably, Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Alison Lurie worked as her secretary and later modeled a character after her in her novel "The Nowhere City." North passed away on November 4, 2005, at the age of 73 due to complications from surgery.

Legacy

North's contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with a Theatre World Award and multiple Emmy nominations for her performances in television series. Her legacy as a talented actress, dancer, and singer continues to be remembered.