High-Kicking Facts About Ann-Margret, Hollywood’s Comeback Queen
She Almost Lost It
Ann-Margret became a Hollywood star so quickly and in such a big way that she barely had a chance to enjoy it. Then, a string of flops brought her down to earth with a thud. So, what was the problem?
Well, that’s just one part of a Hollywood roller-coaster ride.
1. She Was Born Near The Pole
On April 28, 1941, Ann-Margret was born Ann-Margret Olsson in a little town in Sweden that she says was up near the Arctic Circle. Her dad had already lived in America, but he’d returned home to Sweden and started a family there. There was just one problem.
Once Ann-Margret was in the picture, her dad wanted to leave again.
2. She Was Good At Copying
Gustav Olsson wanted to return to the US, but his wife didn’t want to go with him. So he made a surprising decision—he went alone.
The rest of the Olssons did eventually follow, and once they were all reunited in Chicago, Ann-Margret began to study dance.
Somehow, even at a young age, she was able to simply copy the steps of her teachers. Mom helped out by sewing her costumes. And then, a sudden tragedy changed everything.
3. He Had An Accident
Gustav Olsson worked at a local electric company to support the family, but after he was involved in an accident there, he was unable to return to work.
That’s when Ann-Margret’s mother Anna had to step up as the breadwinner—and made an odd career choice.
She became a receptionist…at a funeral parlor. While Mom dealt with morbid surroundings, Ann-Margret hit the airwaves.
4. She Gained Experience
Even though Ann-Margret was an attractive young woman, she got her start on the radio. She was still a teenager when she performed on Don McNeill’s Breakfast Club and Ted Mack’s Amateur Hour. She also appeared in musicals at her high school. All this small-time experience was about to pay off big time.
