Entertaining Facts About Ethel Merman, The First Lady Of Musicals
The world has seen plenty of talented divas, but few of them had a voice like Ethel Merman. Famous for being a vocal powerhouse, she also gained infamy for her brash and bold personality.
Out of all the actresses balancing Broadway and Hollywood, Ethel was the most unapologetic and ruthless of them all—and it led her straight to her heartbreaking end.
1. Her Birth Date Is A Mystery
Ethel Merman was born on January 16, 1908—but throughout her life, the outspoken actress had another story to tell. In fact, Ethel wholeheartedly believed that 1912 was her actual birth year. Weirder still, there’s no evidence to verify her claim at all. However, considering her stunning eccentricities, this was just par for the course for Ethel Merman.
2. She Had A Lot Of Faith
Ethel's beginnings starkly contrasted the rambunctious reputation she'd one day earn. Religion was a major part of her childhood. Raised as an Episcopalian, Ethel had a schedule that revolved around religious activities.
She attended church on Sunday mornings, Sunday school, afternoon prayer meetings, and children's study groups in the evening.
But while she learned to be a prim and proper young lady—she didn't exactly grow into one.
3. She Had A Way With Words
Throughout her career, Ethel Merman was known for her vulgar humor. Yup, she adored cursing. Her brash, inappropriate vocabulary ran red-hot, but not everybody appreciated her shameless swearing. During rehearsal for her guest appearance on The Loretta Young Show, Ethel let her mouth run wild in front of the show's host—and really put her foot in it.
4. She Was Scandalous
You see, Loretta Young was a devout Catholic, so, when Ethel let her tongue fly free, it scandalized her. Determined to put a stop to such bad behavior, Young told her, "Come on, Ethel. You know my rules. That'll cost you a dollar." In response, Ethel had some choice words for her, sparking a heated argument. But, of course, her uncouthness didn’t stop there.
