Dramatic Facts About Ann Sheridan, Hollywood’s “Oomph” Girl

A Dramatic Life

In the vicious land of Hollywood, former pin-up girl Ann Sheridan desperately wanted to be taken seriously. She became a classic movie actress with a rebellious streak—but sadly, a career in the spotlight couldn’t promise her a “

happily ever after”.

1. She Came From Humble Beginnings

Not only would Ann Sheridan’s career overflow with its fair share of drama, but she also lived through two tragic world conflicts during her life. She was born on February 21, 1915 during the second year of WWI as the youngest of five children. Luckily, resilience and fortitude seemed to flow through her veins.

American actress Ann Sheridan as a child

Hulton Archive, Getty Images

2. She Was Raised Right

Ann Sheridan was a true Southerner. Being born in Texas meant she always had those Southern sensibilities and a down-to-earth personality. She stood up for what she believed in.

Unfortunately, her Texan roots would cause her some problems once she got to Hollywood.

American actress and singer Ann Sheridan

Silver Screen Collection, Getty Images

3. She Had Other Plans Before Acting

Before Sheridan became an actress, her life was on a very different course. She was attending the North Texas State Teachers College, where she sang in the college band and played basketball on the women’s team.

From an early age, she was a well-rounded person and this sentiment would continue into her acting career.

When she finally got her big break, it was in the most shocking way possible.

American actress Ann Sheridan

John Kobal Foundation, Getty Images

4. Her Sister Was A Catalyst

Sheridan didn’t get her big break on purpose. Her sister, Kitty,was actually pulling a prank. She thought it would be funny to submit a headshot of Sheridan to the Paramount Pictures “Search For Beauty” contest, not thinking it would come of anything. However, she couldn’t have been more wrong.

A screenshot of the movie Search for Beauty

Paramount, Search for Beauty (1934)