Bing Crosby

NAME Harry Lillis "Bing" Crosby

WHAT FAMOUS FOR  Bing Crosby was an American singer and actor, often referred to as the "King of Crooners." He was renowned for his smooth baritone voice and relaxed singing style, which made him one of the most popular entertainers of the 20th century.

BIRTH Bing Crosby was born on May 3, 1903, in Spokane, Washington, to parents of Anglo-Irish heritage.

FAMILY BACKGROUND His father, Harry Lowe Crosby, was a bookkeeper, while his mother, Catherine Helen Harrigan, was of Irish descent. Bing grew up in a devout Catholic family as one of seven children.

CHILDHOOD Music filled the Crosby home. At just six years old, Bing received his first phonograph, igniting a lifelong love for music. Al Jolson's recordings became a particular favorite.  Around this time, he earned the nickname "Bing," inspired by the newspaper comic strip "The Bingville Bugle."

EDUCATION Crosby's education took place in Catholic schools, reflecting his mother's strong faith. He attended Gonzaga High School  and later enrolled in Gonzaga University's law program. Despite maintaining a solid B+ average, music's allure proved too strong.  Joining the local band, the Musicaladers, Crosby's passion for singing and drumming overshadowed his legal aspirations. This realization led him to trade in his law books for a microphone, permanently altering his path.

Though he never completed his bachelor's degree, Gonzaga remained a significant presence in Crosby's life. He received an honorary doctorate and generously donated to both the university and high school, crediting his success partly to the education he received there, especially his involvement in elocution, debate, and drama clubs.

CAREER RECORD Crosby's career spanned several decades. He began his career in the 1920s and achieved widespread fame in the 1930s and 1940s. His recordings, including "White Christmas" and "Silent Night," are among the best-selling singles of all time. He also starred in numerous films, such as Going My Way and White Christmas.

APPEARANCE Bing Crosby defied the Hollywood mold. Forget the chiseled features and sculpted physiques of the typical matinee idol. Crosby was an everyman, a relatable figure whose charm and talent radiated far brighter than his physical appearance.

Standing at a claimed (but likely exaggerated) 5'9", Crosby fell short of the towering heroes on screen. Evidence suggests he was closer to 5'7", a fact he occasionally compensated for with shoe lifts. His build was on the stockier side, with a tendency to carry weight around his midsection. Yet, his unassuming frame only served to make him more approachable.

Crosby's facial features weren't conventionally handsome. Prominent ears, thin lips, and a receding hairline (often hidden under hats or a toupee) wouldn't win any beauty contests. But his charm and charisma transcended physical limitations.

His relaxed stage presence and smooth vocal style, delivered in this unconventional package, resonated deeply with audiences. He proved that star power could shine through regardless of physical appearance, paving the way for a new generation of performers who valued personality over sculpted physiques. Crosby's success story became a testament to the power of talent, charm, and a good sense of self.

Bing Crosby circa 1940

FASHION Crosby's laid-back style became a defining part of his image. He embraced  casual comfort, favoring rumpled shirts, beat-up hats, and mismatched socks. This informality, coupled with his signature pipe and calm demeanor, projected an aura of effortless cool. It was a new kind of American individualism – approachable, self-assured, and undeniably appealing.

A pioneer of the Canadian Tuxedo, Crosby inspired the trend after being refused a hotel room for wearing jeans in 1951. Levis created a denim tuxedo jacket for him in response.

CHARACTER Known for his amiable nature,  Crosby  was a kind and gentle man who was loved by many. Along with that, Bing was both competitive and ambitious.  

Demonstrating his self-deprecating humor, Crosby stated: "Everyone knows I'm just a big, good-natured slob."

SENSE OF HUMOUR Crosby’s humor was often understated, delivered with the same easygoing charm that marked his performances. He often made light of his own talents and career and once quipped: "Honestly, I think I've stretched a talent which is so thin it's almost transparent over a quite unbelievable term of years"

Crosby also showed his wit when describing his comedic abilities: "Once or twice I've been described as a light comedian. I consider this the most accurate description of my abilities I've ever seen

RELATIONSHIPS Bing Crosby married twice. His first marriage, in 1930, was to actress Dixie Lee. Back then, Lee was arguably the bigger star. They tied the knot on September 29, 1930, at the Church of the Blessed Sacrament in Hollywood

However, the union faced hurdles from the start. Within a year, Lee announced plans for a divorce, citing mental cruelty, though they quickly reconciled. A larger issue became Lee's struggle with alcoholism, which put a strain on their relationship. Despite her initial support in curbing Crosby's own drinking, her problem intensified over time. Four sons were born during their marriage: Gary (1933), twins Dennis and Phillip (1934), and Lindsay (1938). Unfortunately, Dixie Lee tragically passed away from ovarian cancer in 1952, just shy of her 43rd birthday.

Five years later, Crosby married Kathryn Grant on October 24, 1957, when he was 54 years old and she was 23. The wedding took place in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

Kathryn Grant, born as Olive Kathryn Grandstaff, was an actress who had appeared in several films under the stage names Kathryn Grant and Kathryn Grandstaff before marrying Crosby. After their marriage, Kathryn largely curtailed her acting career, although she continued to appear with Crosby and their children in his Christmas television specials and in commercial

Together, they had three children: Harry (1958), Mary (1959), and Nathaniel (1961). Crosby's relationship with this family seemed closer and more positive. Harry spoke fondly of their bond, and Nathaniel highlighted the time Crosby dedicated to them, unlike his occasional distance from his first family.

Bing Crosby and Kathryn Grant in 1960 By ETH-Bibliothek Zürich, Bildarchiv / Fotograf: Gerber, Hans

MONEY AND FAME Crosby was one of the highest-paid entertainers of his time. He amassed a great deal of wealth and fame.

Crosby was not just an entertainer but also a savvy businessman and innovator. He invested in and promoted the development of audio tape recording technology, which revolutionized the recording industry. He also ventured into television, buying TV stations and helping finance the development of videotape.

He loved money and insisted on being paid upfront and in cash.

Bing's wealth extended beyond entertainment. He owned 15% of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team from the 1940s to the 1960s and was involved in various business ventures.

FOOD AND DRINK Crosby struggled with alcoholism throughout his life, which affected his personal relationships, particularly with his first wife, Dixie Lee4. His drinking habits were not always healthy or moderate.

Crosby had a fondness for bourbon whiskey. He reportedly enjoyed a sip before performing, and kept a special bottle of Old Charter bourbon in his collection, which was made before Prohibition and bottled in 1929..

During a famous Pirates-Yankees World Series game, Crosby accidentally spilled scotch into a friend's fireplace when Bill Mazeroski hit the game-winning home run.

Crosby developed an appreciation for tequila, particularly Herradura. He advised drinking it neat with a Sangrita chaser (a non-alcoholic mix of hot sauce, salt, grenadine, and orange juice).

Crosby was an early shareholder and West Coast distributor of Minute Maid orange juice concentrate3.

His reported last words—"Let’s go get a Coke"—suggest a fondness for the beverage.

MUSIC AND ARTS  Bing Crosby, a name synonymous with velvety smooth vocals and Christmas carols, wasn't just another pretty warbler (though let's be honest, the man had a certain je ne sais quoi). Born Harry Lillis Crosby Jr. in 1903, Bing carved a unique path through the 20th-century entertainment landscape.

This wasn't your typical Hollywood heartthrob. Crosby was more the approachable everyman, the guy next door with a killer voice and a penchant for hats (lots of hats). But don't let the unassuming exterior fool you. Bing was a powerhouse. He sang, he acted, he produced radio shows, he even dabbled in television – and he did it all with a quiet confidence that left audiences swooning.

His influence on music is undeniable, he revolutionized music with his use of microphones to create an intimate crooning style. Think Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, even the King himself, Elvis Presley. They all owe a debt to Crosby's pioneering vocal style. And the hits? Well, let's just say his recording of "White Christmas" still holds the crown for best-selling single ever – that's right, folks, Bing could sell you snow in July (well, almost).

Crosby was a prolific actor, appearing in over 70 feature films He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role in Going My Way (1944) and was nominated again for The Bells of St. Mary's (1945). From 1944 to 1948, he was the number one box office attraction for five consecutive years

This man was a cultural phenomenon. One of the first true global superstars, he dominated the entertainment industry for over five decades. Awards galore rained down on him, including the first-ever Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

So, next time you hear that unmistakable voice crooning about a winter wonderland, remember Bing Crosby. The man who could melt hearts with a song, sell you the latest tech, and maybe, just maybe, convince you to buy a winter coat in the middle of summer.

LITERATURE  Crosby was widely read, with interests spanning various subjects. His second wife, Kathryn Grant, described him as intellectually curious and thoughtful.

NATURE Crosby had an appreciation for wildlife and objets d'art, showing his interest in nature and artistic expression.

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Bing was an avid golfer, known to structure his life and career around his love for the game. He hosted the famous pro-am golf tournament, the "Crosby Clambake," which began in 1937 at the Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club in California. This event later became the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. Fittingly, Crosby passed away on October 14, 1977, after completing a round of golf at La Moraleja Golf Course in Madrid, Spain12.

Crosby enjoyed fishing and hunting as recreational activities. These hobbies reflected his love for the outdoors and were common pastimes for him.

Crosby had a deep interest in horse racing and was involved in building the Del Mar Racetrack in San Diego, California. He was a co-founder of the track and even sang "Where the Turf Meets the Surf" on its opening day in 1937. He later sold his stake in Del Mar when he became part-owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates baseball team.

As a young man, Crosby played baseball at Gonzaga University, where he attended college for three years before pursuing his entertainment career. He remained a fan of the sport throughout his life

SCIENCE AND MATHS Crosby invested in technological advancements: Bing Crosby Enterprises (BCE) was at the forefront of audio and video recording innovation, creating the first video recorder in 1952.

He was the first to pre-record radio shows, revolutionizing how content was produced and delivered.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY Raised a devout Catholic, Crosby often portrayed priests in films, notably Father O’Malley in Going My Way.

Beyond the smooth vocals and laid-back charm, Bing Crosby's life was informed by a distinct philosophy subtly woven into his actions and artistic choices. Though not a religious scholar, his Catholic upbringing and experiences as a performer left a clear imprint on his worldview.

Crosby championed the true meaning of Christmas. He famously stated, "Unless we make Christmas an occasion to share our blessings, all the snow in Alaska won't make it 'white.'" This quote underlines his belief that Christmas transcended materialistic celebrations, emphasizing the act of giving and the importance of compassion during this season.

Crosby's philosophy embraced a positive outlook. His rendition of "Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)" embodied this spirit. The song, as Crosby interpreted it, offered a solution to worry: by focusing on the good things in life, anxieties can be calmed. Gratitude became a key to inner peace.

Crosby's perspective on human nature was nuanced. He believed in acknowledging human frailties, stating, "You'll never be a wonderful woman or even a wonderful human being until you learn to have some regard for human frailty." This quote underscored the importance of understanding our limitations and developing compassion for ourselves and others.

While not overtly theological, Crosby's Christmas performances conveyed a profound sense of faith and wonder. His rendition of "Silent Night," with its hushed reverence, instilled a sense of peace and reflected the quiet awe surrounding Jesus's birth.

Crosby valued intellectual curiosity and lifelong learning. His advice, "Oh, listen a lot and talk less. You can't learn anything when you're talking," spoke volumes about his philosophy. It emphasized openness to new ideas and the importance of active listening.

POLITICS Crosby was largely apolitical but supported causes he believed in, including U.S. war efforts during World War II.

SCANDAL Though widely beloved, Crosby’s parenting methods were criticized by his eldest son, Gary, in a controversial memoir.

MILITARY RECORD While Bing did not serve in the military, he entertained troops during World War II, earning widespread admiration from servicemen.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS Crosby was a smoker and a drinker. and suffered from heart problems in his later years. He remained active in his later years, playing golf and traveling, but a massive heart attack eventually claimed his life.

HOMES Bing Crosby, the iconic crooner, had a penchant for luxurious homes, particularly in the sun-drenched landscapes of California. Here's a glimpse into some of his notable residences:

Palm Desert Estate: Nestled within the prestigious Ironwood Country Club (formerly Silver Spur Ranch), this expansive property boasted a three-bedroom main house, two guest casitas, and a saltwater pool. Spread across 2.5 acres, it offered ample space for relaxation and entertainment.

Rancho Mirage Residence: A mid-century modern gem, this 6,700-square-foot home in the Thunderbird Heights neighborhood featured six bedrooms and six bathrooms. Notably, it included the "JFK Wing," hinting at its storied past.

Palm Springs Home: One of Crosby's earlier desert homes, this property in Palm Springs offered a more classic style, reflecting his evolving tastes.

Hillsborough Property: This 9,845-square-foot home in the affluent Hillsborough neighborhood was shared with his wife Kathryn Grant and their three children. It represented a different side of Crosby's lifestyle, showcasing a more traditional style.

Crosby's choice of homes reflects his love for California's desert communities and upscale neighborhoods. These properties, often featuring spacious layouts, luxurious amenities, and close proximity to golf courses, aligned perfectly with his passion for the sport and his desire for a comfortable and stylish lifestyle.

TRAVEL Crosby traveled extensively for his career and leisure, particularly enjoying trips to Europe and Spain for golf.

DEATH Bing Crosby passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack on October 14, 1977, at the age of 73. His death occurred during a round of golf at the La Moraleja club near Madrid, Spain.

After completing 18 holes of golf, Crosby collapsed while walking towards the clubhouse. Despite immediate medical attention at the Red Cross Hospital in Madrid, he was pronounced dead upon arrival. A massive heart attack was determined to be the cause of death.

It was a sudden and shocking end for a man who had seemed so vibrant and full of life. His golfing partners recalled that he had been in good spirits, singing and enjoying the game, showing no signs of distress.

Crosby's final moments were peaceful. He and his partner, Manuel Pinero, had just won their match by a narrow margin. Tragically, he fell just a short distance from the clubhouse, suffering a minor head injury. There were no last words, no dramatic farewell.

Following a private funeral service at St. Paul's Roman Catholic Church in Los Angeles, Crosby was laid to rest at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City, California on October 18, 1977. His grave, marked with the inscription "BELOVED BY ALL," rests beside his first wife, Dixie Lee.

His wife, Kathryn, offered a poignant reflection on his passing: "I can't think of any better way for a golfer who sings for a living to finish the round." It was a fitting tribute to a man who had lived life to the fullest, finding joy in the simple pleasures of music and sport.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA  Crosby made numerous TV appearances, including his own specials.

His Christmas specials became a beloved tradition, often featuring duets with notable artists. His duet with David Bowie of "The Little Drummer Boy/Peace on Earth" (1977) remains a classic.

He appeared on variety shows such as The Ed Sullivan Show and The Tonight Show.

ACHIEVEMENTS Crosby won numerous awards, including seven Academy Awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.