Dorothy Dandridge

Biography

Dorothy Jean Dandridge (November 9, 1922 – September 8, 1965) was an American actress and singer. She was the first African-American film star to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actress, which was for her performance in Carmen Jones (1954). Dandridge also performed as a vocalist in venues such as the Cotton Club and the Apollo Theater. During her early career, she performed as a part of The Wonder Children, later The Dandridge Sisters, and appeared in a succession of films, usually in uncredited roles. In 1959, Dandridge was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Porgy and Bess. She is the subject of the 1999 biographical film Introducing Dorothy Dandridge, with Halle Berry portraying her. She has been recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Known For

A Day at the Races

as Singer (uncredited)

Carmen Jones

as Carmen Jones

The Oscars

as Self

Since You Went Away

as Black Officer's Wife in Train Station (uncredited)

Porgy and Bess

as Bess

Sun Valley Serenade

as Specialty Act

Ride 'Em Cowboy

as Dancer (uncredited)

Sundown

as Kipsang's Wife

The Ed Sullivan Show

as Self

Island in the Sun

as Margot Seaton