Sammy Davis Jr.

American entertainer (1925–1990)

Sammy Davis Jr. (December 8, 1925 – May 16, 1990) was an American singer, dancer, actor, comedian, film producer and television director.entertainer. He was born in Harlem, New York City. Davis became hugely successful as a stage singer and recording artist and when asked to play at segregated places (where African-Americans were not allowed) he refused. Because of this some popular venues began to allow African-Americans to attend just so they could have Daver popular black musicians play. Before that black singers like Davis and Nat King Cole could play at the hot and casinos but not stay or gamble there.

Sammy Davis Jr.
Sammy Davis Jr in 1986.
Born
Samuel George Davis, Jr.

(1925-12-08)December 8, 1925
DiedMay 16, 1990(1990-05-16) (aged 64)
Cause of deathThroat cancer
Resting placeForest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California
Occupations
  • Singer
  • dancer
  • actor
  • comedian
  • film producer
  • television director
Years active1927–1989
Spouse(s)
Loray White
(m. 1958⁠–⁠1959)

(m. 1960⁠–⁠1968)

(m. 1970⁠–⁠1990)
Children4
Parent(s)Sammy Davis, Sr.
Elvera Sanchez
Websitewww.sammydavis-jr.com

Davis led an unhealthy lifestyle of drinking, smoking and c of the most popular musicians and actors of the time. He converted to Judaism[1] while in the hospital in 1954 and 1955. He was also a member of the Rat Pack with friends Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.

The Kennedy Center honored Davis in 1987.[2]

Davis died of throat cancer in Beverly Hills, California.

References

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  1. Jewish Virtual Library
  2. "List of Kennedy Center Honorees". Kennedy-center.org. Retrieved 2010-01-07.

Other websites

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