What Happened to Vera Ellen? Inside Her Reclusive Final Years

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  • čas přidán 4. 07. 2024
  • TW: This video contains a discussion of Eating Disorders. Our intent is not to demonize Vera-Ellen for her alleged struggles, rather we merely are trying to paint an accurate picture of her life story.
    ▬Contents of this video▬
    00:00 - Intro
    00:36 - A Star Is Born
    02:37 - It Was All Downhill After White Christmas
    04:05 - Why She Always Covered Her Neck
    05:17 - Vera-Ellen's Marriages
    06:14 - Outro
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    Do you think that Vera-Ellen deserved better than how she was treated by the entertainment industry? And what are some of your fondest memories of her? Let us know in the comments.
    Vera Ellen was one of the most popular dancers to ever appear in Hollywood and Broadway musicals. She was a very capable and charming actress who could effortlessly match and arguably even outdance many of the leading men of her era. She experienced the height of her fame in the 1940s and 1950s, but unfortunately, her fame quickly faded and nowadays, her name is one that few remember.
    A woman of her talent and beauty deserved better. It's a shame that she fell into obscurity as she seems to have.
    If you grew up in the time period when Vera Ellen was the talk of the town, you might remember her performances alongside stars like Danny Kaye, Donald O'Connor, Gene Kelley, and Fred Astaire. She made memorable appearances in films like 1949s On The Town and 1954s White Christmas.
    Vera-Ellen Westmeier Rohe was born in Norwood, Ohio - a suburb of Cincinnati - on February 16, 1921. She started dancing at the age of 10 and received national attention when she was 13 when she won a competition on a popular radio program.
    Vera-Ellen went on to appear in dozens of films - and later television shows. Primarily she performed in musicals, but when the genre fell our fashion in the late 50s, Vera-Ellen pretty much found herself without a job.
    So whatever happened to Vera Ellen? Why was someone with such star power destined to be all-but-forgotten after her star faded? Join Facts Verse as we explore this fascinating topic. We'll be covering not only her astounding - yet tragic - life story but also a few reasons why she fell out of favor with the public.
    Many people believe that it was her alleged struggle with the eating disorder anorexia that brought about her downfall. Certainly, the ailment can lead to disastrous physical and mental consequences, but those that were closest to her deny that she suffered from anything of the sort.
    We do know, however, that Vera-Ellen dropped out of the public eye after the death of her newborn daughter in 1963. Ultimately she spent the remainder of her life in seclusion before dying of cancer at the age of 60 in 1981. Vera-Ellen was buried at the Glen Haven Memorial Park in Sylmar, California. In the forty-plus years since, her fans have done their best to keep her memory alive.
    What Happened to Vera Ellen Inside Her Reclusive Final Years
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Komentáře • 975

  • @FactsVerse
    @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +21

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    • @marieezzo5461
      @marieezzo5461 Před 5 měsíci +1

      She was a fabulous dancer and a beautiful woman. Such talent like this doesn't come along too often. She will be missed. R.I.P

    • @gloria-du3op
      @gloria-du3op Před 4 měsíci

      RIP VERA. A true actress & star whom died too young😢. You are missed.

  • @vivd7356
    @vivd7356 Před 2 lety +1098

    Vera Ellen was so kind to me when I was 11 years old. She and I were the last two remaining dancers taking dance class at a Hollywood studio in 1962. My parents were late picking me up. Ms. Ellen waited with me for quite a long while on the sidewalk outside the locked studio until my parents arrived. I'll never forget her kindness.

    • @lisanealy1703
      @lisanealy1703 Před 2 lety +55

      Incredible!!! Awesome story!!!

    • @gindrops1219
      @gindrops1219 Před 2 lety +56

      That is such a lovely story! Thanks for sharing that with us!

    • @vivd7356
      @vivd7356 Před 2 lety +82

      Thank you for your comments. Vera Ellen was talented, beautiful and considerate. She must have been concerned that I would not be safe waiting there alone. BTW, the owner of the studio and dance school was Madame Kathryn Etienne. Madame was Cyd Charisse's sister-in-law. Mitzi Gaynor studied under Madame Etienne.

    • @lisanealy1703
      @lisanealy1703 Před 2 lety +35

      @@vivd7356 Wow!! What wonderful memories you have!!

    • @vivd7356
      @vivd7356 Před 2 lety +54

      @@lisanealy1703 I do! Great memories indeed! I forgot to mention that my parents were grateful and thrilled to find Vera Ellen waiting there with me.

  • @donschwartz9585
    @donschwartz9585 Před 2 lety +358

    She was truly underrated and should have been more known. She unfortunately lost her only child to SIDS which took a toll on her. She was gorgeous.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +4

      We agree! Thank you for watching our content. Be on the lookout for our next video!

    • @leeparks15
      @leeparks15 Před 2 lety +2

      🙏🏽♥️♥️♥️

    • @Colby_914
      @Colby_914 Před 2 lety +16

      She was sensational! I lost my baby to SIDS also. It nearly killed me.

    • @donschwartz9585
      @donschwartz9585 Před 2 lety +8

      @@Colby_914
      Diann
      I can't imagine the pain you went through. Shakes your beliefs up.

    • @Colby_914
      @Colby_914 Před 2 lety +7

      @@donschwartz9585 thank you, and you’re right. ❤️‍🩹

  • @patriotmama
    @patriotmama Před rokem +212

    Vera Ellen was one of the greatest dancers I have ever seen. I think she was marvelous. Yes, I believe she was greatly overlooked.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      One of our favorites too, you've got taste! What is your favorite role of Vera?

  • @alainfitnessdoc4503
    @alainfitnessdoc4503 Před 2 lety +386

    Vera Ellen is one of the most talented dancers that i’ve ever seen in my life. Ive only seen her in movies but her dance technique, athleticism, precision, variety and performance is something that I’ve never seen from anyone else ever.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +17

      We feel the same way! Thank you for sharing your thoughts.The way she moves is so smooth ❤

    • @alanaronald244
      @alanaronald244 Před 2 lety +28

      As a former ballet teacher, I will agree. If I'm not mistaken, Fred Astaire named her as someone who got as much attention as he did when they danced, and he had to work hard not to be upstaged, (something that was very rare for Astaire!). Also, as someone who lost her young child to SIDS, I can attest to the fact that it can have an extreme impact upon one's life. Thanks for this, and sorry that we lost Vera Ellen so young. She was a vibrant, talented dancer and performer, and I am just glad we are left with the films in which she appeared.

    • @julieharrell2585
      @julieharrell2585 Před 2 lety +6

      I have to agree with you. And she was a lot better than her male partners as well.

    • @Justice_TRUTH_Martyr
      @Justice_TRUTH_Martyr Před rokem

      *I Hate these Stories about "Another" BeautiFuLL Wasted Lady!!!*
      *Vera's DNA, No Kids, Wasted!!! PROOF that DarWin IS a LIE!!!*
      *But, . . Where is GOD??? Is there a God????*
      *If OnLy Vera ELLen had have Ate HeaLthy Foods!!!*
      *Look at Me!!! Lived Poor, Never DID Anything with My LiFe!!!*
      *My own BirthEviLBitch AgnesPeters Hated My Birth!!!*
      *BUT ==> I am '75', & HeaLthy!!!*
      *Vera ELLen, Dead of Cancer at 60-yrs. & Not OLd!*
      *Life is Sooooo, Un-Fair!!! But DarWinism is a Proven LIE!!!!*
      *Justin Martyr, Eugene, Oregon, Janu. 3, 202'3' (Rain & CoLd)*
      *My AvaTar, is NOT my DNA-Face! Ones AvaTar is their SouL!!!*
      *JesusChrist IS a MorRon & a LIAR!!! Every Person [[[ CAN ]]]-->*
      *Make a Judgment CaLL!!! You Liar & MorRon-> Jesus Christ!*
      *P.S.youDeMonicChristians: Where is Ms.GOD? IsGod aHoMo?*

    • @Justice_TRUTH_Martyr
      @Justice_TRUTH_Martyr Před rokem +1

      *ALain

  • @pippodisco5724
    @pippodisco5724 Před rokem +70

    I was a dance major in college- i saw Nuruyev, Baryshnikov and Gene Kelly dance live. As a dancer i have to say that Vera-Ellen had one of the best techniques ive ever scene a dancer have. Ballet, tap, ballroom- she was at the top of the game in all catagories. Who cares if her singing voice was average, her dancing was almost superhuman. I still watch white Christmas just to see her move, and it feels like the first time every time. I think her acting was underated, but i think she got the roles she got in Hollywood based on the fact that even the old boys club running the studios couldnt deny the magic that she created onscreen.

  • @richardrosenthal9552
    @richardrosenthal9552 Před 2 lety +192

    Vera Ellen was definitely underrated and overlooked in her career. As a dancer she deserved better. As an actress she didn’t get a chance to show her range. She was a highly talented and beautiful woman. I never understood why she was so under used by Hollywood.

    • @thunderbird1921
      @thunderbird1921 Před 2 lety +7

      What's funny is that some dancers became cowgirls in western films after their careers in there started to fade. Nell O'Day was one of them, a dancer "it girl" who got parts in Bury Me Not On The Lone Prairie and other 40s westerns when it was discovered she was one of the best equestrians in Hollywood.

    • @grip2617
      @grip2617 Před 2 lety +7

      I don't know if being used by Hollywood is good for any career.

  • @michelegiallombardo3914
    @michelegiallombardo3914 Před 2 lety +141

    The dance sequence she performed with Danny Kaye in White Christmas has to be the best one ever in any musical.

    • @cathleendelorenzo205
      @cathleendelorenzo205 Před 2 lety +13

      That’s my favorite, too! Her grace and extension were amazing…she seemed to be floating on air. Gorgeous!

    • @carollund8251
      @carollund8251 Před rokem +4

      I Iove her in Wonder Man. Incredible dancing.

    • @MissGelly
      @MissGelly Před rokem +6

      As delightful as it was, Danny Kaye is no dancer- if only Donald O’Connor hadn’t got ill and been forced to drop out. That dance would’ve been sublime. Her dancing with him in Call Me Madam is some of her very best dancing.

    • @presencerocks2224
      @presencerocks2224 Před rokem +7

      @@MissGelly Would have been even better with their original plan which was Fred Astaire. He was offered the role but had “retired” and turned it down. It was then offered to Donald O’Conner as you mentioned before Danny Kaye. Kaye was never quite the dancer like the others, but she was so good that it didn’t matter. I do think (though I haven’t seen anything to confirm this) that that’s a large part of the reason John Brascia was in the movie. Im a just guessing his scenes dancing with her would have been for Astaire. Once they switched to Danny Kaye they likely created that role to make up for his lack of dancing

    • @kaeli3952
      @kaeli3952 Před rokem +2

      @@MissGelly Donald had said that it was the best dancing he had ever done as well. The two of them together were magical and had he been able to do A White Christmas would have been legendary

  • @MrChrisablett
    @MrChrisablett Před rokem +18

    Fred Astaire once commented that she rehearsed more than he did, and that's saying something with his already rehearsal mania to get the dance perfected. She was one of the marvels of the musical movie genre.

  • @leesashriber5097
    @leesashriber5097 Před 2 lety +167

    An amazing dancer. Loved her in White Christmas. Rest peacefully, Vera. You are missed. 🙏🕊️❤️

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +7

      Thank you for sharing your favorite role of Vera Ellen! may she find peace 🙏

  • @cryan4041
    @cryan4041 Před 2 lety +123

    Sincere thanks for this posting. Vera Ellen was regarded as the most disciplined dancer at MGM. I always regarded her dancing ability as simply mesmerizing, at times defying gravity. No matter with whom she was partnered, I hardly noticed them simply because I couldn't take my eyes off of how she moves. (I don't mean that disrespectfully to any of her partners.) I have never understood why history hasn't immortalized her name with the likes of Ginger Rogers and Cyd Charisse. Those I've known in the business say that that can simply be the by-product of management. In any event, I feel her dance routines are not only among the very best of Hollywood's Golden era, but they also hold their own against the best of today's.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for watching and for sharing your thoughts! We're so glad you enjoyed this video. What other types of videos would you like to see?

    • @l.thegirl2581
      @l.thegirl2581 Před rokem +9

      I agree. When I saw that scene of her in White Christmas, dancing on the stairway, I was amazed! At the time I saw the sequence, I didn't know who she was, but I went out of my way to find out. She was phenomenally gifted. Strength, balance, grace, timing, appearance are qualities she had in abundance. My impression was that she was quite athletic.

    • @sarahpease464
      @sarahpease464 Před rokem +2

      She was simply wonderful and so delightful to watch. Hee precision is especially nice to see and something todays dancers could learn from!

    • @natthebratster
      @natthebratster Před 7 měsíci +1

      ​@@l.thegirl2581same! First time I saw White Christmas I said to myself My God she's an amazing dancer-how do I not know about her?

  • @marlo1942
    @marlo1942 Před 2 lety +82

    I saw her only in "White Christmas," one of my favorite movies, and still can't get over how thin she was, but I loved her dancing! It's a shame she wasn't cast in more movies after that movie

  • @kentramstutz
    @kentramstutz Před 2 lety +150

    Yes, she deserved a better career. Sadly, many musical stars suffered the same fate when the genre faded.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +3

      Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What is your favorite film of Vera?

    • @davedee4382
      @davedee4382 Před rokem

      True.

  • @francesmarianperriguey87
    @francesmarianperriguey87 Před rokem +90

    Vera was so graceful, talented and pretty, she should have been treated much better and given more roles

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem +2

      Beautiful words, thank you for your message for Vera! Which of her roles appealed to you the most?

  • @Pgresham3
    @Pgresham3 Před 2 lety +118

    I loved Vera-Ellen. She probably didn't get the respect she deserved but it's Hollywood. Nuff said. Really sorry about her loosing her little girl. So sad.

    • @jackjules7552
      @jackjules7552 Před 2 lety +7

      I read the book published on Vera Ellen and she was very respected by her peers in Hollywood. According to Rosemary Clooney, her co star in White Christmas, everyone raved about Vera Ellen's professionalism and dancing. No one could say anything bad about Vera Ellen when it came to her professionalism on the set. If anything she worked herself to death.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +2

      We're glad to know that you love Vera Ellen! What is your favorite role of her?

  • @jeffaltier5582
    @jeffaltier5582 Před 2 lety +108

    She is one of my favorite leading ladies in musicals. She's one of the few (Cyd Charisse is the other) that could effortlessly work with the stylistically different Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire and be a true partner.

  • @SA-sk4ci
    @SA-sk4ci Před rokem +251

    I adore Vera-Ellen and a year doesn’t pass without a complete start to finish viewing of White Christmas in my household! I find it hard to believe she could be anorexic and still perform those grueling dance numbers! Many actresses who danced during her time were portrayed as ornaments to the male counterpart. Vera-Ellen held her own and distinguished herself beyond a simple dance partner. I barely even notice Danny Kaye dancing with her in the bridge scene of White Christmas. She is just so gorgeous twirling around in that beautiful powder puff pink dress! We should remember that she was working in the “studio system” where it wasn’t what you knew but who you knew and who you were willing to grovel to for fame! Maybe Vera-Ellen refused to be controlled and decided to move on. Still, the mark she left on the history of entertainment is undeniable!

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem +5

      We're very happy to know that you're a fan of Vera. We loved her too. May she find peace 🙏

    • @Clake52
      @Clake52 Před rokem +8

      I just read last night that during the bridge scene Danny was kneeling on one knee when Vera-Ellen danced behind him. She tripped on his extended foot but recovered immediately without a hitch.

    • @SA-sk4ci
      @SA-sk4ci Před rokem +5

      @@Clake52 I did not know that! I certainly wouldn’t have been able to tell just by watching the scene.

    • @graceisamazing5493
      @graceisamazing5493 Před rokem +2

      Well said!

    • @douglashall2141
      @douglashall2141 Před rokem +3

      I have to agree with you, White Christmas was one of my most favorites and still lives to this day. I bought a CD so I can watch it every Christmas.

  • @margiegillean4569
    @margiegillean4569 Před rokem +46

    No one held a candle to her dancing then or now ❤

    • @milliemouse6525
      @milliemouse6525 Před 4 měsíci

      Guess you've never seen Cyd Charisse, Leslie Caron, Rita Moreno or Gwen Vernon ❤

    • @MrCrowebobby
      @MrCrowebobby Před 2 měsíci

      @@milliemouse6525 They were all better in their own unique discipline, but Vera-Ellen was fantastic in all disciplines.

  • @Nicksonian
    @Nicksonian Před 2 lety +52

    Thanks for this. I’ve always loved Vera-Ellen. One of the most beautiful women of Hollywood’s golden age, a highly-skilled dancer, a fine actor with personality and screen presence…She deserved far more than what she got.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +2

      You're very much welcome! Thanks for watching! We're so glad you enjoyed this video. What other types of videos would you like to see?

  • @mariaignagni1957
    @mariaignagni1957 Před 2 lety +40

    She was a fabulous dancer and very, very pretty!🌹🌹

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      We strongly concur! Thank you for sharing your thoughts. What other types of videos would you like to see on our channel?

  • @jhanimalluvr5932
    @jhanimalluvr5932 Před 2 lety +22

    She was a gifted talent in so many ways. Her role in White Christmas was charming, funny, elegant, and energetic. Her dancing was so complex and precise but fluid and beautiful. I don’t know how Rosemary Clooney kept up with her.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      We agree! Thank you for watching our content. Be on the lookout for our next video!

  • @acalia_sariah
    @acalia_sariah Před 2 lety +26

    She was very underrated. She deserved so much more credit than she was given. She was beautiful and so very talented.

    • @grip2617
      @grip2617 Před 2 lety

      The credits come from the audience and people who liked her. Never from Hollywood. I hope Elon Musk finds way to buy Hollywood.

  • @kimberlymclees8189
    @kimberlymclees8189 Před 2 lety +8

    YES! She deserved much better! There were lots of talented ladies dancing in Hollywood films, but no one exuded joy like Vera-Ellen. It was a great pleasure to watch her perform.

  • @dairyair5371
    @dairyair5371 Před rokem +3

    I only remembered her in White Christmas and thought she was really skinny then but she looked healthy to me and could dance circles around everybody. I wondered what happened with her career. Thanks for sharing.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      You're very much welcome! We're glad to know that you love our video. If we may ask, what other types of video would you like to see on our channel?

  • @robertkeefer1552
    @robertkeefer1552 Před 2 lety +25

    Vera was the best and deserved better. She could hold her own with anyone. She was my favorite lady.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      We're glad to know that you're a Vera Ellen fan! Which film of her appealed to you the most?

    • @robertkeefer1552
      @robertkeefer1552 Před 2 lety

      @@FactsVerse White Christmas

  • @debrawhite751
    @debrawhite751 Před 2 lety +31

    White Christmas is one of my favorite movies of all time. I've memorized the entire script, I've watched it so many times. Vera Ellen was an amazing dancer and she was so beautiful. One day as I was watching the movie again with my sister, we commented on how long her legs were, and it hit me that she looks like a Barbie doll come to life - the figure, the long legs, even the way she wore her hair in a ponytail - I don't know which came first - the Barbie doll or Vera Ellen as a star, but, I challenge anyone to compare photos of her in White Christmas to the very early Barbie dolls, and not see how uncanny the resemblance is.

    • @tallulah2
      @tallulah2 Před rokem +1

      I agree! She looks like the original Barbie.

  • @trinasp
    @trinasp Před 2 lety +30

    Yes! She deserved better! She was one of the best dancers in Hollywood! I can't think of anyone I would love to see more. Three of my favorite musicals happen to be On The Town, White Christmas and Call me Madam. She blew me away in all three!

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +2

      Well said, we strongly concur! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see?

  • @alwaysblake148
    @alwaysblake148 Před 2 lety +11

    Talk to dancers about Vera Ellen. To a person, they will tell you that she was the greatest dancer in classic film. There were other great dancers, such as Powell and Miller, but no one approached Vera Ellen's range of talent and artistry.

  • @dextec49
    @dextec49 Před 2 lety +19

    She’s a legend, icon that wasn’t recognized by people like me. Didn’t know that she was a great dancer that could out dance other great dancers. Hollywood didn’t invest in her, just didn’t show interest in her, just the dancing they saw. Very sorry to hear about her child’s passing, her passing. Thanks Ms. Verna, child, RIH. Sad video on losing a child and a mother’s grief, heartbreaking story.

  • @mariannemamone9643
    @mariannemamone9643 Před 2 lety +40

    Never miss " White Christmas" every year. She was an incredible dancer and quite pretty.
    I always commented on how truly tiny her waist was.
    It's a shame how her life played out.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      We agree! Thank you for watching our content. Be on the lookout for our next video!

    • @jhanimalluvr5932
      @jhanimalluvr5932 Před 2 lety

      It’s a tradition with me too.

    • @a697ag
      @a697ag Před rokem

      Anorexia. That's how she got that tiny waist so many envied.

  • @angelavenable7308
    @angelavenable7308 Před 2 lety +9

    She was the best dancer I’ve seen in the movies. You can see even the way she holds her hands and arms that every move is beautiful. I wish she’d been in more movies.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Thank you for sharing your message to Vera! We agree that Vera is one unique dancer. Which movie of her appealed to you the most?

  • @popeyeandthejeep7459
    @popeyeandthejeep7459 Před rokem +3

    Grew up with her movies. White Christmas is a holiday favorite. She had it all. Beauty and talent. Definitely under appreciated and over looked.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      We're very happy to know that you're a fan of Vera. We love White Christmas too. May she find peace.

  • @dianejohanson98
    @dianejohanson98 Před 2 lety +23

    My most memorable performance of hers was White Christmas, which I’ve seen at least a dozen times! I love that movie! She was great! I do remember her being very thin though, but she didn’t look sick. She was just a small lady.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Thank you for sharing your favorite role of Vera! We love the movie too. Definitely brings back memories 💗

  • @nancywood9531
    @nancywood9531 Před 2 lety +7

    I am 80 and the movie theater was next door to my mother's job in clothing store. The theater was my " sitter" from 8 years old until I was 14 while mom worked til 9 on Thursday and all day Saturday. 3 theaters so I saw nearly every one of Miss Ellen's movies. She was amazing , great dancer and very sought after and respected actress. She was not overlooked at all. She had her only child, a little girl, die suddenly at 3 months old. It destroyed her.
    Every mother who has a child die blames themselves for not noticing something, and are plagued with " what if's"....blaming herself.... she made happy, laughing, dancing movies full of love. How could she do that and grieve for so many years? The movie news tried to find something " news wotthy so printed rumors"!
    She is among top 5 actresses remembered for their beauty, acting and incredible dancing. Fred Astaire danced with nearly every actress who could keep up with him. When he stated that she "upstaged" him...well ,that says it all. If he had that much respect for her talents....she was not mistreated or underrated at all. But loved by fans and fellow actors.
    Im thankful there are movies to see her talents over and over.
    🕊⚘💃⚘🕊

    • @midnightblue3226
      @midnightblue3226 Před 2 lety +2

      I very much enjoyed reading your comment Nancy...I only ever saw her in White Christmas, a truly wonderful film, makes me cry everytime I watch it....🌷🌷🌷🌷

  • @vickysullivan4798
    @vickysullivan4798 Před 2 lety +13

    I always wondered why there were not more movies with her. Because she was the person I looked for in White Christmas! Very appealing character.

  • @clairisalong126
    @clairisalong126 Před rokem +3

    I only looked into Vera Ellen because of my love for the movie White Christmas, it is one of my favorites and her acting was amazing, not just her dancing. It’s a shame how Hollywood gets in the way of great actors and amazing stories.

  • @davidkelly7272
    @davidkelly7272 Před rokem +2

    What an incredible dancer, amazingly athletic.
    Her performances have left me with an indelible memory of a true
    Hollywood star.

  • @JohnSmith-wr1vz
    @JohnSmith-wr1vz Před 2 lety +15

    I first saw her in a mash-up of famous dance scenes. I was immediately drawn to her beauty and dancing abilities 💃 in White Christmas. I said who is that! I kept searching, what a hidden gem, I never heard of her before. Watching Vera-Ellen for a 2 week marathon. Many times an eye would well up with a tear watching her. I was 21 when she died. I saw her modest headstone at the Sylmar cemetery covered in dirt. With the corner cracked. Her millionaire Rothchild ex couldn't give her a befitting headstone? Just like Hollywood did to so many actors and dancers back then. Signed them to a multi film contract for the minimum they could pay and throw them away. I love Vera-Ellen ❤️ ! She's Gods angel now, bless her soul.

  • @debbieking5171
    @debbieking5171 Před 2 lety +9

    I also love VERA ELLEN and she definitely was underrated as an actress, she was a decent person and never said anything bad about anyone.

  • @kskollections2142
    @kskollections2142 Před 2 lety +10

    She was extremely underrated! She’s my favorite female dancer! She was absolutely gorgeous too.

    • @mlhodges9884
      @mlhodges9884 Před 2 lety

      She was great in another movie with Donald o'connor and Ethel Merman and I am having a senior moment remembering the name. George Sanders was also in it
      Marvellous songs and dancing
      Sorry at 82 I have these senior moments

  • @jeandavis860
    @jeandavis860 Před 2 lety +14

    A fabulous dancer. Loved her best in "Call me Madam" with the wonderful Donald O'Connor and Ethel Merman. Modern movies just don't compare.

  • @debbieking5171
    @debbieking5171 Před 2 lety +9

    She definitely deserves better, and WHITE CHRISTMAS Is my all time favorite Christmas movie, and I watch it at least three times during the holidays. GOD Bless you Vera Ellen you are sorely missed.

  • @susanmacdonald4288
    @susanmacdonald4288 Před rokem +4

    She was a spectacular dancer, and she was also a really good actress. I believe that I read that Gene Kelly said that she was the only female dancer he'd ever worked with that had the same grueling work ethic that he had. She deserved better from the studios than she got.

  • @timothypatrickmurphy7118
    @timothypatrickmurphy7118 Před 2 lety +16

    She was an amazing Dancer! Her acting was always spot on for the parts she played. Hollywood has a reputation of discarding women for many reasons. Loved every performance I’ve ever seen.
    ❤️

  • @mariaevans5793
    @mariaevans5793 Před rokem +3

    A great dancer ,I think true movie and dance fans know who she is,she will never be forgotten!!!!!!!!😁🇬🇧

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      Beautiful words, thank you for your message for Vera. In your opinion, which role did she shine the most?

  • @KimberlyLetsGo
    @KimberlyLetsGo Před 2 lety +5

    Her talent in dancing is unparalleled. I watched movies just to see her. And she had that 1000 watt smile the entire time.

  • @spudthegreaterusa8386
    @spudthegreaterusa8386 Před 2 lety +39

    Before I ever had seen this bio, I would tell people that the best female dancer that ever performed was Vera Ellen. Almost like a ritual we will watch White Christmas and marvel at her abilities as a dancer. Way under rated, but back then there was a fair share of actual talent available, so its understandable how she could get looked over. My Son is 30 , and he and his wife had a girl, his grandmother is named Evelyn, but for some reason they named their daughter Vera Evelyn. I think that growing up watching white Christmas every year played a role in choosing the name. A little subliminal messaging.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +1

      Thank you so much for your beautiful message to Vera! She will be smiling reading this ♥

  • @philipfrandsen1856
    @philipfrandsen1856 Před 2 lety +6

    She is the most amazing dancer I've ever seen - I didn't know about her until after 2000 and now I watch "White Christmas" every year mostly to see her.

  • @gypsyqueen411
    @gypsyqueen411 Před rokem +2

    Every time I watch "White Christmas" I am amazed at how tiny she was. Her dancing skills were above the top!

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      One of our favorites too! Thank you for sharing your thoughts. What other types of video would you like to see on our channel?

  • @DaveTexas
    @DaveTexas Před rokem +8

    I’ve wondered why she disappeared after White Christmas, so it’s nice to learn a few details about her. It really is a shame that she wasn’t given more opportunities to act in films, and it’s puzzling that she wasn’t snapped up for more Broadway musicals after her film career faded.

  • @brianbommarito3376
    @brianbommarito3376 Před rokem +5

    I first saw her on a VHS tape for “Get Happy,” and I was impressed with both her dancing and her acting skills. I’m sorry Vera Ellen didn’t get more opportunities than she did to show her acting chops, because I think she could’ve done well if given the chance. She had some very emotionally touching scenes with Harpo Marx, who was pretending for the film to have a crush on her. Meanwhile, her character has just broken up with her boyfriend, and she’s torn up about it. The film is a gem, it was the last film the Marx Brothers did together (Groucho’s career opportunities, in films and TV, exploded afterward), and one of the first films of Marilyn Monroe, in a cameo.

  • @youyong28
    @youyong28 Před rokem +1

    Vera Ellen was among the very best dancers ever to grace the screen. She was also an effective actress. Losing a child, though, is devastating . That, more than anything else, probably led to her reclusive later years.

  • @cynthiascott4026
    @cynthiascott4026 Před rokem +5

    Vera Ellen was one of my favourite actresses. I grew up in musical era. I never thought of her as anything but a fantastic dancer and very charming. She was neither to heavy or to slim, she was always just right to me..

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      Glad to know that you're a fan of Vera. She's lovely! Which of her films appealed to you the most?

  • @vallovesnature8449
    @vallovesnature8449 Před rokem +3

    My parents remembered when “White Christmas” was played on the radio. My mom absolutely adored Vera-Ellen. She was always a delight to watch & made dancing look effortless.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem +1

      We're very happy to know that you and your parents are a fan of Vera. She is a superb and attractive dancer. Which of her roles appealed to you the most?

    • @vallovesnature8449
      @vallovesnature8449 Před rokem

      @@FactsVerse Definitely White Christmas. She was a very lively carefree character

  • @lesleytipples5743
    @lesleytipples5743 Před 2 lety +7

    She was understated. She was an absolute brilliant dancer and actress. My favourite of all time

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      We do agree and happy to know that you're a fan of this fabulous dancer. Which film of Vera appealed to you the most?

  • @karenharmonauthor
    @karenharmonauthor Před rokem +2

    My two adult daughters grew up watching White Christmas with me, and they loved singing the Sister-Sister song. I have very fond memories of this movie. Vera Ellen was such an incredible dancer. Thank you for this video.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      You're very much welcome! Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts. Be safe and have a great day!

  • @barbaraoconnor9698
    @barbaraoconnor9698 Před 2 lety +29

    Yes she certainly deserved better.
    She was a wonderful talented lady

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      We agree! Thank you for watching our content. Be on the lookout for our next video!

  • @kristinemarkle3819
    @kristinemarkle3819 Před 2 lety +6

    She was very fun to watch. My dad and I would watch her in old videos. She had energy and a special sparkle !

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Absolutely! We're happy to know that you're a fan of Vera Ellen. In which film did you find her the best?

  • @andrewd7586
    @andrewd7586 Před 2 lety +6

    She was absolutely beautiful! I’m in Australia & my late mother & older sister would always watch musicals including Vera Ellen movies. Of course I had to watch them too! 😍🤭

  • @sabrinabeberman180
    @sabrinabeberman180 Před 2 lety +10

    Thank you so much for doing an episode of Vera-Ellen. I loved most of her movies, and her dancing was amazing. I think Hollywood treated most of its stars horribly, especially women like Judy Garland and Rita Hayworth, and wanted to change their appearances, dubbing their voices and not taking women very seriously I feel they even treated Joan Crawford wrong as well.

  • @judyderieux8484
    @judyderieux8484 Před rokem +5

    I've only seen her in "White Christmas" and I loved her. She was so perfect in that role and I felt she could do anything. It's sad she was treated that way.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      One of our favorites too, you've got taste! What other types of video would you like to see?

  • @Conn653
    @Conn653 Před 2 lety +15

    I loved her performance in "White Christmas". A remarkable talent - lost.

  • @gregburns5638
    @gregburns5638 Před 2 lety +5

    A few years back I lived in a sort of rooming house with a bunch of young guys who only enjoyed bloody, gory, violent movies. One night I put on the DVD of 1954's "White Christmas"🎄, and everybody made me replay the incredible "Mandy!" sequence over and over again, because Vera was SO AWESOME!!! 👌👏😍😎🙌♥

    • @johnpickford4222
      @johnpickford4222 Před 2 lety

      And did any of the guys start singing and dancing and, well, you know, hmmmm?

  • @isapaige6792
    @isapaige6792 Před rokem +2

    I've always been proud that I share the same Birthday with Vera Ellen. Exactly 40 years between us. She should have been given more acting roles. ❤️

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      Fun stuff, thank you so much for sharing your life story. Made us miss this fine lady.

  • @stevemalone5894
    @stevemalone5894 Před 2 lety +28

    She was an awesome dancer, and could dance as well as anyone of her day. Enjoy watching the movies she was in , because she could act as well as dance. She died way to young.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Well said, we agree! Thank you so much for sharing your message for Vera. Which film of her appealed to you the most?

  • @iveyivey1298
    @iveyivey1298 Před rokem +4

    What a talented dancer she was quite professional and very spunky she deserves High credit for her hard work and I personally enjoyed seeing her in the movies she made

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      Beautiful words, thank you for your message for Vera. In your opinion, what is her best role?

  • @girlfromthebronxbywayofelb7288

    Vera Ellen is amazing. The partnering with Gene Kelly in "Slaughter on Tenth Ave" was truly groundbreaking. She is definitely one of my favorites!

  • @Daisnap
    @Daisnap Před 2 lety +4

    I have been aware of her through the years, but not being a big musical fan, had never really focused on her and her dancing until I saw the clips you compiled. WOW. She is amazing. Magical to watch. Now I am a fan! Thank you.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for watching! We're so glad you enjoyed this video about Vera Ellen. What other types of videos would you like to see?

    • @Daisnap
      @Daisnap Před 2 lety

      @@FactsVerse To answer your question, I enjoy tributes to gifted character actors of Hollywood’s golden age. So many talented people!

  • @diannevitale3449
    @diannevitale3449 Před rokem +2

    I didn’t see her movies or even heard about her until now. I see from some of the movie clips that she was a terrific dancer & actress. RIP Vera-Ellen.💃🙏

  • @lilyotv9767
    @lilyotv9767 Před 2 lety +4

    I enjoyed this thank you. My family was from Norwood and my mom (long gone too) remembered her in school. She was very focused on her dancing even as a child. What a talent! I'm sorry she lost her little one.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Thanks for watching! We're so glad you enjoyed this video. What other types of videos would you like to see?

  • @pauldavisjr.3284
    @pauldavisjr.3284 Před 2 lety +4

    Wow! She died on my first birthday. What a talented woman. Too bad they didn't have a television show like dancing with the stars back then to display her true passions.

  • @bernard3612
    @bernard3612 Před rokem +2

    Among the great dance performers, Vera Ellen certainly reigns! Head to toe perfection! Gratefully, we still have her with us on film! And every time amazing us with her talents and beauty. Sorely missed for sure.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem +1

      Beautiful words, thank you for your message for Vera. Which of her roles appealed to you the most?

    • @bernard3612
      @bernard3612 Před rokem +1

      I must admit I have not seen all of her films, but as many would agree, White Christmas thrills me!

  • @catherinerobilliard7662

    I watched White Christmas in the local cinema early December and her dancing was outstanding. My husband, aged 65 had never heard of her and he was blown away.

  • @marciamorris6626
    @marciamorris6626 Před 2 lety +5

    Such a fabulous dancer. I loved her in every role she took

  • @jdschauman
    @jdschauman Před rokem +3

    She was so talented. It’s the small mindedness of Hollywood that could not find ways to debut her remarkable talent. I’m sorry to hear about her daughter😢

  • @marilyn6556
    @marilyn6556 Před 10 měsíci

    Vera Ellen was a wonderful dancer, and I don’t know why she was overlooked after White Christmas. I could have watched her dance for hours. It was a loss to Hollywood when she passed away. RIP, beautiful lady!❤️💐😘

  • @lindaashbrook6789
    @lindaashbrook6789 Před rokem +2

    I always thought she should've been more famous than she was. What a great dancer, singer and actress. I've always loved her movies.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      We're very happy to that we have a lot of viewers who love Vera. She is definitely a superb dancer. Which of her roles appealed to you the most?

  • @k.s.k.7721
    @k.s.k.7721 Před 2 lety +4

    Always one of my favorite dancers, I felt her personality and athletic ability, combined with her artistry, always lit up the screen.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Absolutely, we feel the same way! Thank you for sharing your sentiments and for watching our content. What other types of videos would you like to see on our channel?

  • @bieuxyongson
    @bieuxyongson Před rokem +3

    She was a beautiful, talented woman. My mother always loved her. I did a search for her and read a lot of information that you shared. How sad her later years must have been. Who really knows about the eating disorder. We know so much more about them now.

  • @billkent17
    @billkent17 Před rokem +2

    I always enjoyed the movies with Vera-Ellen. Not only was a fabulous dancer but she had a lot of poise and definite warmth that shone beautifully and she blossomed in front of the camera. I am deeply saddened over her sad later years and relatively early death. Hollywood did not give her the respect she so richly deserved.

  • @michaelcanestraro2849
    @michaelcanestraro2849 Před 2 lety +13

    Relatives and close friends always insisted that she did not have an eating disorder. She just had weird ideas about what she ate and when she ate. There was also nothing wrong with her neck. The costume designer for White Christmas, Edith Head, always designed different looks for leading ladies in the same film. Rosemary Clooney has the lower neck lines. Vera Ellen was fantastic.

    • @hebneh
      @hebneh Před 2 lety +5

      "She just had weird ideas about what she ate and when she ate" = eating disorder, in other words.

    • @chrisa1146
      @chrisa1146 Před 2 lety +1

      Sorry Michael, I don't care what "family and friends" supposedly said, you can't tell me that she just suffered from "weird ideas about what and when she ate." If the camera adds 10 lbs and she was as stick thin as she was in White Christmas, she had an eating disorder. End of.

    • @missanne2908
      @missanne2908 Před 2 lety +1

      As someone who has a long, slender neck, she may have been using high necklines just to show off her neck to its best advantage. Nothing sinister in that!

  • @alisonperea1208
    @alisonperea1208 Před 2 lety +12

    Vera Ellen was a very capable dancer and actress. I guess there's always going to be some kind of reprecussion to some actors lives. However, she did danced with top 🎩 dancer's in her career. Thanks for the memories 🤩😄

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Thank you too for sharing your beautiful message to her! What is your favorite role of Vera?

  • @t.r.murphy6339
    @t.r.murphy6339 Před rokem +6

    I have always thought she was a terrific dancer. I can watch her dance scenes over and over again.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem +1

      Us too! Which of Vera's roles appealed to you the most?

  • @marshatolbert154
    @marshatolbert154 Před rokem +1

    I remember watching "White Christmas" for the first time as a child, and being stunned by Vera Ellen's dancing, especially her number with Danny Kaye. She set the standard for what dancing could be, and after all these years, I still feel the same magic whenever I watch her dance. I adore her in "White Christmas" especially (although "Three Little Words" is a close second). Any one of her dance numbers in "White Christmas" could put her in the Hollywood Dancer pantheon, and she has four such dances. Such virtuosity, and yet she makes it look effortless. She was taken from us too soon.

  • @laurayunque4296
    @laurayunque4296 Před rokem +1

    A phenomenal talent who suffered the loss of her child and who clearly had an eating disorder. Tragic. Her dancing was a joy to behold. God rest her soul.

  • @sheliaspringer7389
    @sheliaspringer7389 Před 2 lety +7

    In my opinion, she was extremely looked over! She was beautiful and so very talented! I cannot imagine why the movie industry could not see her above average talent. When I say "above average", I am refering to the fact that she was above average when being compared to other dancers and actresses of the time! She was far better than many female talents that became household names that were far less talented than she was! Whenever I saw that she had a major role in a movie, I would always watch it...knowing that it would be exceptional! I hope that she has found peace at last!

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +1

      Absolutely, we feel the same way! Thank you for sharing your sentiments and for watching our content. What other types of videos would you like to see on our channel?

    • @sheliaspringer7389
      @sheliaspringer7389 Před 2 lety +1

      @@FactsVerse I have always been interested in the life of Veronica Lake! She was so talented and beautiful too. I would love to learn more about her life; personal and professional. Thank you for really caring about what we think as your viewers!

  • @valeriedeforge5961
    @valeriedeforge5961 Před 2 lety +3

    Vera Ellen was the best dancer I have ever seen! I watch White Christmas every year just to see her. She was amazing and definitely under rated.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Well said, we feel the same way Thank you for watching our content and sharing your thoughts. What other types of videos would you like to see?

  • @rdoc
    @rdoc Před rokem +1

    What a great story about Vera's life. I still watch White Christmas mostly just to see Vera perform. There really is no better dancer then she was, not to mention her acting was also incredible. Hollywood made a big mistake not casting her in rolls later in her life.

  • @lindawest172
    @lindawest172 Před rokem +1

    Yes I am and always have been a movie , musical lover . I feel Vera Ellen was the best at dancing along with Sid Charice. So many stars were treated so badly. I just watched White Christmas again I never get tired of it!

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      We feel the same way! Glad to know that you're a fan of Vera. May she find peace🙏

  • @racheldianeames3729
    @racheldianeames3729 Před 2 lety +7

    more videos on old hollywood celebrities 🙏🙏🙏

  • @lizziewalker9374
    @lizziewalker9374 Před 2 lety +3

    Vera-Ellen was absolutely amazing to watch in film. Growing up we always enjoyed seeing her in anything she did. There was a delicious spark to her personality and a wicked precision to her dance. I would have loved to see her given a chance to do other roles and perhaps she did fight for them just like Ginger Rogers who fought for a career outside of just being a dancer in film.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +1

      Couldn't agree more! Thank you for watching our content and for sharing your thoughts. What is your favorite movie of Vera Ellen?

  • @sharonclark-gamus4267
    @sharonclark-gamus4267 Před 2 lety +2

    What a blessing the world has so many videos to enjoy of her incredible timing and skill as a broadway dancer and actress; I have never overlooked her talent and thrill to see her every Christmas dance up a storm with Danny and Fred; what fun they must have had!

  • @marlena321
    @marlena321 Před 6 měsíci +1

    This is so sad to me! She should be remembered for the talented beautiful woman that she was, and not for an eating disorder that there is no proof she actually had! She lost her baby to SIDS at only three months old. That had to completely shatter her heart. Dying from cancer at such a young age. So sad. I only know her from White Christmas but I always thought she was amazing!!! May she Rest in Peace.

  • @tonylee3622
    @tonylee3622 Před 2 lety +10

    Loved her performance in White Christmas, and had often wondered about the remainder of her career... Didn't know about the anorexia, but - as a designer and theatrical costumer, I couldn't miss how small she clearly was in the imagery of the film.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety

      Us too! Thank you for sharing your thoughts. What other types of videos would you like to see on our channel?

  • @lynnettemote1117
    @lynnettemote1117 Před 2 lety +34

    I loved her in every one of her movies I saw! I couldn't get over how tiny she was! I'll bet she was a breeze for her male dance partners to pick up and swing around!

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +1

      Us too! Thank you for sharing your sentiments. What is your favorite role of Vera?

    • @karendixon6673
      @karendixon6673 Před 2 lety

      7p7p

  • @LondonLite02
    @LondonLite02 Před rokem +1

    She was an astonishing dancer. I'm glad that this video addressed her figure, as I always find it a little hard to watch her in White Christmas just because she is so bird-like. It's too bad that she struggled with her body image, especially as she had such great talent and athleticism.

  • @miap6844
    @miap6844 Před rokem +2

    I pray Vera Rests In Peace.
    From this video alone, you can see her pure talent shining through.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem +1

      Truly, Vera is badly missed. What other types of video would you like to see on our channel?

    • @miap6844
      @miap6844 Před rokem

      @@FactsVerse Very true, she is.
      I do enjoy videos such as the one above. Perhaps diving into major life events of old Hollywood actors/actresses, dancers, entertainers etc. (probably some younger viewers may not have heard of)? Whether a scandal is involved or not, knowing interesting facts about the personality is compelling. Until I saw this video, I had never heard of Vera, yet I was so intrigued to learn about her, her life, accomplishments and difficulties.
      Thank you.

  • @elwoodblues9613
    @elwoodblues9613 Před 2 lety +13

    I consider Vera-Ellen to be the greatest overall dancer in movie history. I read once that she is one of only two dancers who could not only keep up with Fred Astaire during his notoriously long rehearsals, but even surpass him (Eleanor Powell was the other).
    I read the rumors about her anorexia too. As a skinny person all my life, I never took this too seriously, but at the same time, it could be possible. But I just saw "On The Town" again, and realized that not only did she have a great body, but she lost a LOT of weight in the six years between that movie and "White Christmas". She was so skinny in the 1955 movie, especially her legs.
    Still an incredible dancer, though. I would have loved to been in Danny Kaye's spot during "The Best Things Happen While You're Dancing", but I think, if I put my arm around her waist during the dance, her waist would easily fit between my bicep and my wrist.

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před 2 lety +1

      We're happy to know that you're a fan of Vera! Thank you for your beautiful message for her and for sharing your life story too 💗

    • @sidilicious11
      @sidilicious11 Před 2 lety +2

      That dance with Dan Kaye is absolute ambrosia to watch for me. It is beyond lovely. My favorite.

  • @windorsolarplease4314
    @windorsolarplease4314 Před 2 lety +4

    She was extremely talented and I would have liked to see her in more movies.

  • @helenmontgomery5357
    @helenmontgomery5357 Před rokem +2

    Vera Ellen was a fabulous dancer, one of the best, she actually danced with the best. She was also a fabulous actress. I loved watching her dance. Her energy and slim physique is amazing

    • @FactsVerse
      @FactsVerse  Před rokem

      Beautiful words, thank you for your message for Vera. Indeed, she is definitely one of the best dancers.