Merman, Ethel

Merman, Ethel,

1908–84, American musical comedy star, b. Astoria, N.Y., originally named Ethel Zimmerman. Merman's theater debut was in George and Ira GershwinGershwin, George
, 1898–1937, American composer, b. Brooklyn, N.Y., as Jacob Gershwin. Gershwin wrote some of the most original and popular musical works produced in the United States.
..... Click the link for more information. 's Girl Crazy (1930). Noted for her brassy, booming voice, she appeared on Broadway in Annie Get Your Gun, Call Me Madam (also the film version, 1953), and Gypsy. Among her films are Alexander's Ragtime Band (1938) and There's No Business like Show Business (1954).

Bibliography

See biographies by C. Flinn and B. Kellow (both: 2007).

Merman, Ethel (b. Zimmerman)

(1908–84) actress, singer; born in Astoria, N.Y. Gutsy, powerful musical comedy performer, she is remembered for her showstopping performances in Annie Get Your Gun (1946) and Call Me Madam (1950).