Introduction
Ruby Keeler was an American actress, dancer, and singer who rose to fame during the 1930s. She is best known for her role in the Broadway musical 42nd Street, which catapulted her to stardom. However, her life was not without scandal and controversy. In this blog post, we will explore the life and career of Ruby Keeler, from her early beginnings to her rise to fame and the scandal that followed.
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Family
Ruby Keeler was born on August 25, 1909, in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada. Her parents, Archie and Nellie Keeler, were both Canadian, but they moved to New York City when Ruby was still a child. Her father was a truck driver, and her mother worked as a bookkeeper. Ruby was the eldest of three siblings, and the family struggled financially.
Early Career
Ruby Keeler began her career as a dancer in vaudeville shows at the age of 13. She quickly gained a reputation as a talented performer, and in 1928, she was discovered by Broadway producer George White. She made her Broadway debut in the chorus of White’s musical “Take a Chance” and went on to appear in several other Broadway shows, including “Show Girl” and “No, No, Nanette.”
Success with 42nd Street
Role in 42nd Street
Ruby Keeler’s big break came in 1933 when she was cast as the lead in the Broadway musical 42nd Street. The show was a huge success, and Keeler’s performance as the naive chorus girl Peggy Sawyer was praised by audiences and critics alike. Her tap dancing skills and innocent charm made her a fan favorite.
Movie Career
Keeler’s success on Broadway led to a career in Hollywood. She starred in several musical films, including “Gold Diggers of 1933,” “Footlight Parade,” and “Dames.” She often appeared opposite her husband, actor and singer Al Jolson. However, her movie career was short-lived, and she retired from acting in 1945.
Scandal and Controversy
Marriage to Al Jolson
Ruby Keeler’s marriage to Al Jolson was the subject of much gossip and speculation. Jolson was 25 years older than Keeler and had a reputation as a womanizer. The couple had two children together, but their marriage was reportedly tumultuous. They divorced in 1940, and Keeler later remarried and had two more children.
Financial Troubles
Despite her success on Broadway and in Hollywood, Ruby Keeler struggled with financial problems throughout her life. She lost much of her money in the stock market crash of 1929 and was forced to declare bankruptcy in the 1950s. She later worked as a dance instructor and appeared in occasional TV and film roles.
Conclusion
Ruby Keeler was a talented performer who made a significant impact on the entertainment industry during the 1930s. Her role in 42nd Street cemented her place in Broadway history, and her performances in Hollywood musicals are still beloved by fans today. However, her life was not without scandal and controversy. Despite these challenges, Keeler remained a beloved figure in show business until her death in 1993.
FAQ
Who is Ruby Keeler?
Ruby Keeler was a popular American actress, dancer, and singer who rose to fame during the 1920s and 1930s.
What is the biography of Ruby Keeler?
Ruby Keeler was born on August 25, 1909, in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Canada. She started her career as a dancer in vaudeville before making her way to Broadway. She became a star after her role in the musical “42nd Street” in 1933. Keeler was married to Al Jolson, a famous singer, and actor, from 1928 until their divorce in 1940. She died on February 28, 1993, in Rancho Mirage, California.
What scandal was Ruby Keeler involved in?
Ruby Keeler was involved in a scandal when her husband, Al Jolson, was accused of having an affair with a young dancer named Ruby Keeler. The scandal rocked Hollywood and caused a media frenzy. Despite the scandal, Keeler and Jolson remained married until their divorce in 1940.
What is “42nd Street”?
“42nd Street” is a musical that was first performed on Broadway in 1933. The show tells the story of a young actress who becomes a star overnight after the leading lady breaks her ankle. Ruby Keeler played the role of Peggy Sawyer, the young actress, and became a star herself after the show’s success.
