The Inside Story of TV's First Black Superstar

Flip: The Inside Story of TV's First Black Superstar

by Kevin Cook

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12483 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	257 pages

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Sammy Davis Jr. was a true pioneer in the entertainment industry. He was the first black performer to headline a major television variety show, and he went on to become one of the most successful stars in Hollywood history. His story is an inspiring tale of talent, determination, and resilience.

Early Life and Career

Sammy Davis Jr. was born in New York City in 1925. His father was a vaudeville performer, and his mother was a dancer. Sammy began performing at a young age, and by the time he was a teenager, he was already a seasoned entertainer.

In 1943, Sammy Davis Jr. joined the Will Mastin Trio, a popular black vaudeville act. The trio toured the country for several years, and they eventually became one of the most successful black acts in the country.

In 1954, Sammy Davis Jr. made his television debut on the Ed Sullivan Show. His performance was a huge success, and he quickly became one of the most popular performers on television.

In 1956, Sammy Davis Jr. starred in his own television variety show, The Sammy Davis Jr. Show. The show was a huge hit, and it made Davis Jr. a household name.

Hollywood Success

Sammy Davis Jr.'s success on television led to a successful film career. He starred in a number of popular films, including Ocean's 11 (1960),Sergeants 3 (1962),and Robin and the 7 Hoods (1964).

In 1966, Sammy Davis Jr. starred in his own television special, Sammy Davis Jr. at the Copa. The special was a huge success, and it won Davis Jr. an Emmy Award.

Personal Life

Sammy Davis Jr.'s personal life was often in the news. He was married four times, and he had a number of high-profile relationships.

In 1960, Sammy Davis Jr. married actress May Britt. The couple had a daughter, Tracey, but they divorced in 1967.

In 1969, Sammy Davis Jr. married Altovise Gore. The couple had two children, Manny and Jeff, but they divorced in 1990.

In 1991, Sammy Davis Jr. married actress Loretta Swit. The couple remained married until Davis Jr.'s death in 1990.

Legacy

Sammy Davis Jr. was a true pioneer in the entertainment industry. He broke down racial barriers and became one of the most successful stars in Hollywood history. His story is an inspiring tale of talent, determination, and resilience.

Sammy Davis Jr. died in 1990 at the age of 64. He is survived by his three children, Tracey, Manny, and Jeff.

Flip: The Inside Story of TV's First Black Superstar

by Kevin Cook

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	12483 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	257 pages

FREE