Adriana Caselotti was an American actress who is best known for her role as the voice of Snow White in the classic animated film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), as well as her exceptional singing talents. Born into a musical family, she made a significant impact in the world of animation.
Personal and Family Life
Adriana was born on May 6, 1916, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to a family deeply involved in music. Her father, Guido Caselotti, was an Italian immigrant and music teacher, while her mother, Maria, sang at the Royal Opera. Adriana’s sister, Louise, also pursued a successful career in opera. Throughout her life, Adriana was married four times, including to Norval Mitchell and Dr. Dana Costigan, and had a passion for music that defined much of her early life.
Career Highlights
At just 18, Adriana was selected by Walt Disney to be the voice of Snow White, a role that would become her most iconic. During the era of strict studio contracts, her voice was exclusively associated with Snow White, limiting her opportunities in film. Despite this, she remained active in the music scene, performing in various capacities, including opera and radio. Additionally, she explored real estate and investments while maintaining her artistic pursuits.
Death and Legacy
Adriana Caselotti passed away on January 19, 1997, in Los Angeles, California, due to lung cancer. Her contribution to animation through her voice work as Snow White continues to be celebrated, and she left behind a legacy that emphasizes the importance of voice acting in film history. Adriana’s talent and unique voice have made her a memorable figure in the entertainment industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs | 1937-12-21 | Snow White (voice) (uncredited) |
| It’s a Wonderful Life | 1946-12-20 | Singer at Martini’s (uncredited) |
| The Wizard of Oz | 1939-08-15 | Juliet (voice) (uncredited) |
| Modern Inventions | 1937-05-29 | Robot Baby Carriage (voice) (uncredited) |
| The Bride Wore Red | 1937-10-08 | First Peasant Girl (uncredited) |
| Two Sisters from Boston | 1946-06-06 | Opera Singer (uncredited) |
| Naughty Marietta | 1935-03-29 | Dancing Doll (uncredited) |
| Disney’s Halloween Treat | 1982-10-30 | Snow White (voice) (archive footage) |
| Disney Princess Sing Along Songs, Vol. 1 – Once Upon A Dream | 2004-09-07 | Snow White (voice) |
| Disney Princess Sing Along Songs, Vol. 3 – Perfectly Princess | 2006-02-14 | Snow White (singing voice) |
| Disney Princess Sing Along Songs, Vol. 2 – Enchanted Tea Party | 2005-09-06 | Snow White (voice) |
| The Julie Andrews Hour | 1972-09-13 | Self |