Dean Martin: The King of Cool – More Than Just a Drunky Act
Dean Martin was cool. His image showed a suave singer with a grin and a strong drink. Yet, behind the "drunky" act, lay a complex man. Let's explore Dino Crocetti, the man behind Dean Martin.
The Man Behind the Myth: Dean Martin's Personal Life
Dino Crocetti was born in Steubenville, Ohio. His parents were Italian immigrants, Gaetano and Angela. The name "Dino Crocetti" does not have the same flair. Hence, he became "Dean Martin." It's showbiz, after all.
Family shaped Dean's life. He married three times. First, he wed Elizabeth Anne McDonald and had his first child. Then he married Jeanne Martin. Jeanne never remarried after their split. His last wife was Catherine Hawn, whom he wed after she worked as a hair-salon receptionist. They adopted Catherine's daughter, Sasha. However, this marriage ended in 1976. It’s a rollercoaster, that Hollywood love.
Dean was a proud father of eight kids! Craig, Claudia, Gail, Deana, Dean Paul, Ricci, Gina, and Sasha. What a big family! Sadly, Claudia, Dean Jr., and Ricci have passed. Dean's legacy remains with Craig, Gail, Deana, Gina, and Sasha. Dino Jr. made his mark as a pop singer and actor. Tragically, he died in 1987 in a plane crash while serving in the Air National Guard. A reminder that fame has its shadows.
As for his personality? Dean's stage presence was larger than life. He captivated crowds with charm. Offstage, he was more reserved. Some called him a "loner at heart." Quite different from his public persona, isn't it? His “drinky” image? Everyone remembers him with a glass in hand. However, Dean said it was all an act. Whether that's true or not, it became a significant part of his image.
Some quirky tidbits? Dean was left-handed, which matters to fellow lefties. Those famous hairstyles? All natural, no wigs or toupees involved. He is buried at Pierce Brothers Westwood Village Memorial Park in Los Angeles. Fitting as he rests alongside other legends. Surprisingly, the cool Dean feared elevators and loved comic books! Even the coolest guys have quirks.
From Crooner to Comedian to Movie Star: Dean Martin's Illustrious Career
Dean Martin was more than a pretty face. He was a triple threat: singer, comedian, actor. He shined brightly in Las Vegas. That was his stage.
The "drunky" act, whether true or just performance, became part of his identity. The slurred speech and forgotten lyrics were charm. Audiences loved it night after night. An impressive commitment!
On screen, Dean was equally at home. The Matt Helm movies featured him as the suave secret agent. Think of James Bond mixed with Dean's laid-back charm. A perfect match!
Hollywood honored him with three stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. One for film at 6519 Hollywood Boulevard, another for music at 1617 Vine, and one for television at 6651 Hollywood Boulevard. Serious star power! Truly a Walk of Dean Fame!
While the "drinky" image may have been a facade, there was one vice he could not escape: smoking. Rarely was Dean seen without a cigarette in hand. It added to his classic Hollywood vibe, even if it wasn’t healthy.
Friendships and Famous Faces: Dean Martin's Relationships
Dean's career was marked by legendary relationships too. You can't talk about Dean Martin without mentioning Frank Sinatra.
Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra: A Bromance for the Ages
Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin together sound iconic. Their friendship was exceptional and unique. They ruled Hollywood and Vegas as kings of cool. But even legends had drama. Rumors say they once had a barroom brawl in Beverly Hills that nearly turned fatal. The details remain unclear but it adds mystery to their friendship.
Their bond went beyond fun times and fights. When Sammy Davis Jr. passed away in 1990, Sinatra served as an honorary pallbearer. Sinatra’s words about Sammy revealed the deep connections in their circle.
Martin and Lewis: Comedy Gold
Before Sinatra, there was Lewis. Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis formed a legendary comedy duo. The smooth crooner paired with the zany comedian created magic that captivated audiences. Their act propelled both of their careers to new heights.
Dean Martin and John Wayne: Western Icons
Dean starred with John Wayne in the classic Western 'Rio Bravo' [1959]. Directed by Howard Hawks, it showcased Dean's versatility as an actor. Offscreen, they shared a good friendship as titans of Hollywood, swapping stories over drinks.
Burt Lancaster: An Unlikely Duo
Another surprising partnership? Burt Lancaster. Dean and Burt represented two different styles – crooner meets brooding leading man. Together, they formed a memorable duo in Hollywood, proving opposites can attract.
Meeting Elvis: A King and a King
Even the King of Cool met the King of Rock and Roll. In 1960 on a movie lot, Dean met Elvis Presley during the filming of 'G.I. Blues.' Dean’s daughter Deana accompanied them, making it a memorable family celebrity encounter.
Money Matters: The Dean Martin Family Trust
After Dean passed in 1995, the business side of his legacy emerged. The Dean Martin Family Trust began with his agent Mort Viner and Laura Lizer as co-trustees handle his royalties. This trust managed Dean's wealth, securing his family's future through his continued popularity.
Health and Other Facts: The Rest of the Story
Sadly, Dean’s heavy smoking caught up with him. He developed COPD/Emphysema, impacting his breathing severely. A reminder that even cool habits have consequences.
A final amusing yet sad story? Dean lost his two front teeth at age ten! He claimed things went downhill from there. It adds another hilarious twist to his story of becoming a superstar in Hollywood. More than just a "drunky" act, he was a multifaceted entertainer, a friend, father, and true icon.
Responses (0 )