Ann Miller was an American actress known for her remarkable performances in films like “Easter Parade,” “On the Town,” and “Kiss Me Kate.” She was celebrated for her energetic tap dancing and distinctive style in Hollywood musicals.
Personal and Family Life
Born Johnnie Lucille Ann Collier on April 12, 1923, in Chireno, Texas, she moved to Los Angeles with her mother at the age of nine after her parents separated. Ann took tap dancing lessons to support her mother, who was hearing-impaired. This early passion led her to dance in various nightclubs while being educated at home.
Career Highlights
Ann Miller’s career took off when she joined RKO Pictures as a contract player at just 14 years old. She appeared in several hit films and even starred on Broadway in the show “George White’s Scandals.” Over the years, she worked with major studios like Columbia and MGM, delivering unforgettable performances in musicals.
Death and Legacy
On January 22, 2004, Ann Miller passed away at the age of 80 due to lung cancer. Her legacy lives on through her classic film roles and her contributions to musical theater, as well as through the admiration of fans and fellow performers.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Mulholland Drive | 2001-06-06 | Coco |
| On the Town | 1949-12-08 | Claire Huddesen |
| You Can’t Take It with You | 1938-09-01 | Essie Carmichael |
| Kiss Me Kate | 1953-11-26 | Lois Lane / Bianca |
| Easter Parade | 1948-07-08 | Nadine Hale |
| Won Ton Ton: The Dog Who Saved Hollywood | 1976-07-26 | Presidents’ Girl 2 |
| The Opposite Sex | 1956-11-15 | Gloria Dahl |
| Lovely to Look At | 1952-05-29 | Bubbles Cassidy |
| Texas Carnival | 1951-10-05 | Sunshine Jackson |
| Stage Door | 1937-10-08 | Annie |