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Dorothy Dandridge

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How the First Black Oscar-Nominated Actress, Dorothy Dandridge Died With $2 to Her Name

The life of Dorothy Dandridge is a bittersweet tale of career highs and societal induced lows. Although she is remembered today as an entertainment pioneer who paved the way for many Black actresses, her success was oftentimes overshadowed by racism and financial mishaps. Even though Dandridge reached stardom and her legacy is still celebrated today, it is said that the famous actress died with only two dollars in her bank account, according to ThoughtCo. At a young age, Dandridge could sing, dance, and act; skills that her mother’s lover, Geneva Williams took notice of. Williams made it her mission to hone Dandridge’s natural abilities, and soon Dandridge and her sister Vivian formed The Wonder Children. The duo began touring southern churches with the National Baptist Convention. The duo, now known as The Dandridge Sisters, would get their big break in 1935 when they made their Paramount debut in “The Big Broadcast of 1936.” This role led to other roles in Hollywood like “Jeepers...

Devin Crudup

Apr 13, 2020