Dorothy Lamour

Dorothy Lamour (born Mary Leta Dorothy Slaton; December 10, 1914 – September 22, 1996) was an American actress and singer. She is best remembered for appearing in the Road to... series of movies, starring alongside Bing Crosby and Bob Hope.

Early life

Lamour was born on December 10, 1914, in New Orleans, Louisiana. She was the daughter of Carmen Louise and John Watson Slaton, both of whom were waiters. Lamour was of French Louisianan, Spanish, and Irish descent.

Career

Lamour began her career in the 1930s as a big band singer. In 1936, she moved to Hollywood and began appearing in films at Paramount Pictures. She was often cast in exotic roles and is noted for her performances in a sarong, a garment she wore in numerous films.

Lamour's most enduring role was as the female lead in the popular Road to... series of movies, which she starred in alongside Bing Crosby and Bob Hope. The series began with Road to Singapore in 1940 and ended with Road to Hong Kong in 1962.

In addition to her film career, Lamour was also a successful recording artist. She recorded numerous songs for Decca Records and had several hit records.

Personal life

Lamour was married twice. Her first marriage was to orchestra leader Herbie Kay in 1935, which ended in divorce in 1939. She then married William Ross Howard III in 1943, with whom she had two sons. Lamour remained married to Howard until his death in 1978.

Death

Lamour died on September 22, 1996, at the age of 81. She was interred in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park (Hollywood Hills).

Legacy

Lamour's contributions to the film industry have been recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In addition, she has been inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame for her contributions to the music industry.

See also

• List of American film actresses
• List of people from New Orleans
• List of Paramount Pictures films