Dubbed one of the world’s greatest entertainers, Sammy Davis Jr. has no doubt left a remarkable legacy in the world of show business. He starred in 7 Broadway shows, appeared in 23 films, landed many TV roles, and recorded various albums.
At a young age, Davis was already performing on the road with his father and uncle. At age 7, he already made his film debut by starring in a 1933 musical-comedy film. Thanks to his incredible talent and showmanship, he quickly rose to fame and eventually became an icon in the entertainment industry.
In this article, we will delve more into the life of Sammy Davis Jr., a multi talented singer, actor, comedian, dancer, and film producer. What was his career like? What are his physical attributes? Let’s find out!
Who is Sammy Davis Jr.?
Early Life
Davis was no doubt a born entertainer. At the young age of three, Sammy Davis Jr. has already been performing at vaudeville with his father and uncle. He learned how to tap dance and joined his father and uncle which formed the Will Mastin Trio. Since they were always on the road, Davis never received formal education and only had to rely on tutors that his father hired.
During their tour in the 1930s, Davis grew into an even more skilled dancer, singer, instrumentalist, and comedian. In 1933, he made his film debut by starring in the musical-comedy film Rufus Jones for President.
At the peak of World War II, Davis’ career was put on hold as he was drafted into the Army where he experienced racial prejudice from his fellow servicemen. Eventually, he found refuge in an entertainment regiment that made him realize how much he loved performing.
After the war, Davis continued to perform with the Will Mastin Trio while also singing in nightclubs and recording music by himself. His career began to reach new heights in 1947 when the trio opened for Frank Sinatra, followed by a tour with Mickey Rooney. In 1954, Davis caught the attention of Decca Records who eventually offered him a recording contract.
But, Davis’ career was not without hardships. Soon after signing the contract, he almost lost his life in a car accident that took his one eye. For the rest of his life, Davis had a prosthetic glass eye as a result of the accident.
However, this tragedy didn’t stop him from performing. In 1955, he released his first two albums, Starring Sammy Davis Jr. and Sammy Davis Jr. Sings Just for Lovers, which earned critical acclaim and success that opened the door to headlining performances in Las Vegas in New York.
The Rat Pack
One of Davis’ enduring legacies includes being a member of the iconic “Rat Pack” with Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. Las Vegas became their playground and stage as the group performed in huge crowds in sold-out night clubs. Drawing many visitors to their casino performances, the group went down in history for transforming Las Vegas into the entertainment destination that it is today.
Around this time, Davis also released music one after another. His song “What Kind of Fool Am?” consistently topped the Billboard charts and was even nominated as Record of the Year by the Grammy Awards. His live stage performances also continued to earn recognition, with his 1964 musical Golden Boy being nominated for the prestigious Tony Awards.
Davis also established a lifelong friendship with fellow Rat Pack member Frank Sinatra. During the time when racial discrimination was rampant, Sinatra always stood up to defend his friend, even going as far as tearing up his contract with a theater that banned Davis because of his race. The two of them remained good friends until Davis’ death in 1990.
Social Activism
Even when he was at the peak of his career and was living a glamorous lifestyle, Davis continued to use his fame and influence to raise social awareness. He refused to perform in racially segregated nightclubs, actively participated in the Civil Rights Movement, and joined the March on Washington in 1963.
Apart from that, Davis also earned controversy for challenging the bigotry of the period. He married the Swedish Actress May Britt even though interracial marriages were forbidden at the time. This is also the reason why former US President John F. Kennedy refused to let Davis perform during his inauguration at the White House.
The Late Years
Davis continued with his musical career until the late 80s when his health began to deteriorate. In 1989, a tumor was discovered in his throat due to heavy smoking. That same year, he gave his final performance at the Harrah’s Casino in Lake Tahoe.
On May 16, 1990, Davis passed away at his home in California, at the age of 64. Before he died, his friends from the industry honored him at a February television tribute.
Quick Facts About Sammy Davis Jr.
What is the nickname of Sammy Davis Jr.?
Davis had many nicknames throughout his life but the most popular one is “Mr. Show Business.” He also fondly referred to himself as “the only Black, Puerto Rican, one-eyed, Jewish entertainer in the world.”
How tall was Sammy Davis Jr.?
Sammy Davis Jr. once described himself as 5 ft 6 in. But according to his record from the army, Davis’ height is 5 ft 4 in and a half.
How old was Sammy Davis Jr.?
Davis was born on December 8, 1925. He passed away in 1990 at age 64.
How much does Sammy Davis Jr. Weigh?
Davis weighed 120 pounds (54 kg) during his lifetime.
What is the religion of Sammy Davis Jr.?
Davis grew up a Christian because of his parents, but after the car accident in 1954, he converted to Judaism after finding similarities between the oppression experienced by Jews and African-Americans.
What awards did Sammy Davis Jr. receive?
Davis was an outstanding entertainer who received multiple Grammy and Emmy nominations for his music and television performances. In 2001, he was posthumously awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
