Sammy Davis Jr.

NAME Sammy Davis Jr.

WHAT FAMOUS FOR Sammy Davis Jr. was a renowned American entertainer. He was a highly versatile performer, excelling in singing, dancing, acting, and comedy. His career spanned several decades, and he achieved iconic status as an entertainer.

BIRTH Born on December 8, 1925, in Harlem, New York City.

FAMILY BACKGROUND Sammy Davis Jr. was born to vaudeville performing parents, Sammy Davis Sr. and Elvera Sanchez. His father was African-American, and his mother was Afro-Cuban. Initially, he was cared for by his paternal grandmother, Rosa Davis

CHILDHOOD Raised primarily by his father and his uncle, Will Mastin, Sammy Davis Jr. joined the Will Mastin Trio as a child performer, learning the ropes of show business from an early age. By age 7, he had already appeared in the film Rufus Jones for President (1933)

EDUCATION Davis received limited formal education as his early career kept him on the road, performing in vaudeville and stage shows. His father occasionally hired tutors while they were on tour, but this was inconsistent, Instead, Davis's education came primarily through his experiences in show business.

He learned tap dancing from the legendary Bill "Bojangles" Robinson.

Davis developed skills in singing, dancing, comedy, and playing multiple instruments (trumpet, drums, piano, and vibraphone)

CAREER RECORD Early Career: Started performing as a child with his parents. 

Solo Career: Achieved significant solo success in the 1950s and 1960s.

Film and Television: Appeared in numerous films and television shows, including Ocean's Eleven, Sweet Charity, and The Rat Pack.

Las Vegas Residency: Became a prominent performer in Las Vegas, known for his high-energy shows and charismatic stage presence.

APPEARANCE Sammy Davis Jr. was of short stature, standing at 5'6". His signature look included tailored suits and later, a glass eye, following the loss of his left eye in 1954.

Photo of Sammy Davis, Jr. in 1972.

FASHION Davis was known for his sharp, sophisticated fashion sense, favoring slim-cut suits and accessories that epitomized the Rat Pack's style.

CHARACTER A charismatic and driven individual, Davis was known for his high energy, infectious enthusiasm, and engaging stage presence. He overcame significant racial prejudice and personal setbacks to achieve his status as an entertainment legend.

SPEAKING VOICE He had a smooth, distinctive speaking voice, equally adept at charming audiences or delivering comedic punchlines.

SENSE OF HUMOUR Sammy Davis Jr.'s comedic style was nothing short of a marvel—a dazzling cocktail of wit, mimicry, and the kind of self-deprecating humor that could charm even the stoniest audience member. His versatility was legendary, his ability to leap from vaudevillian slapstick to poignant self-reflection as smooth as a Fred Astaire glide. If there was a comedy Mount Rushmore, Davis might very well deserve a double carving.

To watch Davis in action was to witness a masterclass in adaptability. He had an uncanny knack for reading a room, molding his act to fit the vibe like an impeccably tailored tuxedo. His impressions were so sharp they could have sliced through sheet metal—Sinatra, Bogart, Jerry Lewis—he nailed them all. And he didn’t just mimic; he embodied, sprinkling these uncanny renditions into his routines like rare spices. His humor could pivot from the broad slapstick of a bygone era to incisive commentary on the pressing issues of race and identity, often in the same breath.

Self-deprecation was his comedic bread and butter, the fuel that powered his connection with audiences. He’d turn the spotlight on himself with such disarming candor, you’d almost forget the underlying tensions he was addressing. For Davis, humor wasn’t just a tool; it was a bridge, a way to ease past thorny issues of race and religion with a lightness that felt anything but trivial. But his comedy wasn’t all sunshine and roses. Sometimes, his willingness to lean into stereotypes or participate in racially charged banter—particularly in the predominantly white circles of his era—raised eyebrows and stirred debates.

Davis’s timing was impeccable. He could toss off an “off-the-cuff” joke so perfectly timed it felt like catching a butterfly mid-flight. Even the most meticulously rehearsed routines sparkled with the illusion of spontaneity, a talent honed from years on the vaudeville circuit. His quick-witted exchanges with his bandleader were often show highlights, peppered with a touch of mischief that kept audiences on their toes.

And then, of course, there was the Rat Pack. Within that legendary orbit of banter and bravado, Davis often found himself the target of racial digs. But he wielded his wit like a fencer’s foil, turning barbs into brilliant comebacks that left even Sinatra nodding in admiration. It was a delicate dance—one part survival, one part artistry—but Davis handled it with a grace that made the whole thing look effortless.

One of his signature moves was blending humor into his musical performances, a rare skill that gave his act a dynamic, almost theatrical flair. Case in point: his celebrated 10-minute rendition of "Rock-a-Bye Your Baby with a Dixie Melody." It wasn’t just a song; it was a comedy routine, an impression showcase, and a standing ovation waiting to happen. His ability to shift seamlessly from heartfelt balladry to side-splitting humor made him not just a comedian or a singer, but a bona fide phenomenon.

RELATIONSHIPS Sammy Davis Jr.'s romantic life was as multifaceted and eventful as his career. He was married three times and had numerous other relationships, many of which sparked controversy due to the racial tensions of the era.

His first marriage was to Loray White, a Black singer. The ceremony took place in the Emerald Room of the Sands Hotel. It was a brief event, lasting only two minutes and the bride was 40 minutes late to the ceremony. This brief union, lasting from January 1958 to April 1959, was reportedly arranged to protect Davis from threats stemming from his relationship with white actress Kim Novak.

His second and most controversial marriage was to Swedish actress May Britt. Their interracial wedding on November 13, 1960 at Davis' Hollywood home faced significant public backlash, including death threats and bomb threats. Interracial marriage was illegal in 31 states at the time, and the couple faced significant social and professional repercussions. They had three children together before divorcing in 1968.

May Britt in the 1960s

Davis's third and final marriage was to Altovise Gore, an African American dancer. They married in 1970 and remained together until his death in 1990. This marriage attracted less public attention than his previous interracial unions. he couple adopted a son named Manny Davis

Throughout his life, Davis was linked to numerous women, including actresses, singers, and dancers. His relationships often crossed racial lines, making him a controversial figure in an era of significant racial tension. Despite the challenges, Davis consistently pursued relationships based on his personal feelings rather than societal expectations.

Davis was part of The Rat Pack, an informal group of entertainers who became synonymous with Las Vegas in the 1960s. Led by Frank Sinatra, the core members also included Dean Martin, Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop.   

MONEY AND FAME Sammy Davis Jr., fondly remembered as "Mr. Show Business" and "The World's Greatest Entertainer," was a true polymath of the performing arts. His unparalleled talents spanned singing, dancing, acting, comedy, and impersonations, earning him a reputation as one of the most versatile and captivating entertainers of all time. 

Financially, Sammy Davis Jr.'s career was a story of both incredible wealth and dramatic losses. At the height of his fame, he amassed a fortune reportedly totaling $50 million. His 1972 hit song "The Candy Man" topped the Billboard charts, adding another glittering achievement to his résumé. Known as "Mister Show Business," Davis became synonymous with the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas, where he ruled the stage. 

However, his financial success was undermined by his extravagant lifestyle and a lack of effective financial management. By the time of his death in 1990, Davis's net worth was estimated at just $5 million—equivalent to approximately $11 million in 2024 when adjusted for inflation. Adding to his financial woes, he owed $7 million in back taxes to the Internal Revenue Service, a debt that ballooned further due to penalties and interest.

Despite these challenges, Davis’s contributions to the arts have left a lasting legacy. In 1987, he received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor, recognizing his immense impact on American culture. Posthumously, he was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001 and inducted into the National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame in 2017. His work continues to inspire and entertain, generating income for his estate through royalties and licensing deals. However, the management of his estate has been complicated by legal disputes and lingering tax debts, reflecting the complex aftermath of a life lived in the spotlight. 

FOOD AND DRINK Sammy Davis Jr., despite his fame and wealth, maintained a fondness for simple, comforting foods. His favorite dish was a classic childhood comfort food: spaghetti and meatballs. This dish evoked memories of his early days as a traveling performer and remained a favorite, even when dining at the finest restaurants in Rome. Other beloved dishes included ham hocks and greens, a recipe passed down from his grandmother, and the traditional Sunday meal of fried chicken and black-eyed peas. (1)

When it came to drinks, Davis had a distinct preference for cocktails. His signature drink was a unique twist on the classic highball. He favored Japanese whisky, particularly Suntory, over traditional Scotch, and substituted ginger ale for the usual club soda. A lemon twist garnished his preferred highball. Other favorite drinks included the margarita and the Rusty Nail, a popular choice among the Rat Pack.

Davis's appreciation for Japanese whisky led to a significant partnership with Suntory, making him one of their first American celebrity endorsers. This collaboration played a crucial role in elevating Japanese whisky to its current status as a luxury spirit.

Davis eventually quit drinking due to health concerns. However, his taste for simple, comforting foods and sophisticated yet approachable drinks remained an enduring part of his legacy.

MUSIC AND ARTS Sammy Davis Jr. was, quite simply, a force of nature in a tuxedo. Over a career that spanned six decades, he earned himself the rather ambitious nicknames "Mr. Entertainment" and "The World's Greatest Entertainer"—monikers that, astonishingly, he managed to live up to. Davis’s astonishing versatility and trailblazing achievements made him a cultural icon, though his path to stardom was as colorful as his performances.

Born on December 8, 1925, in New York City, Davis practically danced into the world show-ready. By the age of three, he was already on stage, performing in vaudeville with his father and uncle as part of the Will Mastin Trio. It was the sort of start that would either traumatize a child or prepare them to conquer the world. Fortunately for us, it was the latter. Those early years provided Davis with a foundation in showbiz that would serve him well as he became a singer, dancer, actor, comedian, and, on occasion, a musician. He was, in every sense, a walking variety show.

Davis’s meteoric rise began in the 1950s after a breakout performance at Ciro’s nightclub in Los Angeles, staged conveniently after the 1951 Academy Awards. If you’ve ever wondered what “electrifying” looks like, imagine Davis dazzling an audience with a blend of quick-footed dancing, pitch-perfect singing, and a level of charisma that could power a small city. From that moment on, he was a sensation in the nightclub circuit, his talents spilling over into Broadway, recordings, film, and television.

On Broadway, Davis proved he could light up a theater just as easily as a stage. In Mr. Wonderful (1956), he was, naturally, wonderful. Then came Golden Boy (1964), a role that earned him a Tony Award nomination and cemented his status as a stage powerhouse. Meanwhile, Davis’s recording career was just as illustrious. His 1972 hit “The Candy Man” sweetened the charts, reaching No. 1 on Billboard, while his poignant ballad “What Kind of Fool Am I?” nabbed him a Grammy nomination and became a standard in his repertoire.

Davis’s star power wasn’t confined to the stage and studio. On the silver screen, he shone alongside his Rat Pack brethren in Ocean’s 11 (1960), a film that was less about plot and more about swagger, with Davis delivering both in spades. He also stole scenes as the charming Sportin’ Life in Porgy and Bess (1959). And, of course, there was television, where The Sammy Davis Jr. Show (1966) gave him a platform to showcase his boundless talent week after week.

His legacy is one of unrelenting brilliance, an enduring reminder that sometimes, the greatest stars are those who never stop dazzling.

LITERATURE Sammy Davis Jr.'s early life in show business significantly impacted his formal education. Constantly on the road with his family's vaudeville act, he never had the opportunity to attend school regularly. This itinerant lifestyle prevented him from acquiring traditional reading and writing skills.

While not a prolific writer in the traditional sense, Davis did engage in several literary projects. His autobiography, Yes I Can, published in 1965, became a bestseller. However, the book was primarily written by his close friends, Burt and Jane Boyar. Davis himself acknowledged his limited involvement, stating, "I did not type a letter. I did not put one syllable on a piece of paper."

Later in life, Davis expressed an interest in creative writing. He collaborated with his wife, Altovise, on children's stories, sharing a passion for creating stories that could inspire and impact the lives of young people and aspiring artists.

NATURE Davis spent much of his life in urban environments, but he appreciated the serenity of his homes in Beverly Hills and Palm Springs.

PETS Sammy Davis Jr. was a pet lover and owned at least a couple of dogs during his lifetime. They included Bojangles, a black poodle likely named after the famous dancer Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, who had been a mentor to Davis in his youth. 

Another of Davis's dogs was named Tiny, for which he held a personal animal license issued by the City of Los Angeles. This license was later auctioned as part of his estate

HOBBIES AND SPORTS Davis enjoyed shooting pool, playing golf, and spending time with close friends.

He was an avid photographer who enjoyed shooting pictures of family and acquaintances. 

Davis was an enthusiastic shooter and gun owner.

SCIENCE AND MATHS Davis was fascinated by innovative stage technology and lighting.

PHILOSOPHY & THEOLOGY  On November 19, 1954, Sammy Davis Jr. was involved in a near-fatal car accident in San Bernardino, California, while returning from Las Vegas to Los Angeles. The previous year, he had forged a friendship with comedian and host Eddie Cantor, who had gifted him a mezuzah. Instead of adhering to tradition by placing it on his doorpost, Davis wore it around his neck as a good luck charm. However, he had forgotten to wear the mezuzah on the night of the accident.

While recovering in the hospital, Eddie Cantor shared insights with Sammy about the parallels between Jewish and Black cultures. Raised Catholic by his Catholic mother and Baptist father, Davis began exploring Jewish history as an adult. A particular passage from Abram L. Sachar's book A History of the Jews which described the enduring strength of the Jewish people, deeply resonated with him. This newfound interest ultimately led him to convert to Judaism in 1960. 

Davis at the Western Wall, Jerusalem, 1969. Israel Press and Photo Agency photographer

POLITICS He was politically active, aligning himself with civil rights causes. Despite his association with John F. Kennedy, he was barred from performing at the White House due to his interracial marriage.

ACTIVISM Beyond his artistic brilliance, Davis played a pivotal role in breaking racial barriers in entertainment. One of the first African-American performers to achieve mainstream success, he used his influence to challenge segregation in venues across Miami Beach and Las Vegas. By refusing to perform in segregated clubs, he forced a cultural shift that opened doors for future generations of Black artists. His bold stance made him not just an entertainer but a trailblazer for civil rights within the industry.

SCANDAL Davis faced significant backlash and death threats due to his interracial relationships, particularly his marriage to May Britt.

After splitting from May Britt, Davis began a nonstop orgy of liquor, cocaine and swingers. (2)

MILITARY RECORD Sammy Davis Jr. was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1943 at the age of 18. Assigned to an integrated infantry unit, a rarity for the time, Davis faced significant challenges. Standing at only 5'6" tall and weighing a mere 120 pounds, he was physically smaller than many of his fellow soldiers.

During his service, Davis endured severe racial discrimination and abuse. He was subjected to frequent physical assaults, with his nose broken on multiple occasions. White soldiers, particularly those from the South, subjected him to constant harassment. In one particularly degrading incident, fellow soldiers painted him white from head to toe. He also recounted an incident where soldiers offered him beer laced with urine. Davis later described the experience as a constant struggle, stating, "I had a knockdown, drag-out fight every two days."

Due to the extreme abuse he suffered, Davis was eventually transferred to the Army's Special Services branch, a unit responsible for entertaining troops. Ironically, he found himself performing for some of the same soldiers who had previously abused him. However, he discovered that his talent could be a powerful tool for both protection and potential change, offering a unique way to connect with his abusers and potentially shift their attitudes.

Davis's military experience had a profound and lasting impact on him. It exposed him to a level of racism that he had previously been shielded from by his father and mentor, Will Mastin. This experience shaped his belief that his talent could be used as a "weapon" to combat prejudice. He believed that through his performances, he could influence people's thinking and help to transcend racial barriers.

Davis was discharged in 1945 with the rank of private. He earned the American Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. Despite the immense hardships he endured, Davis's military service ultimately contributed to his growth as a performer and his later involvement in civil rights activism.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS On November 19, 1954, while driving back from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, Sammy Davis Jr. was involved in a serious car accident in San Bernardino, California. The accident occurred at a critical juncture on U.S. Route 66, where Cajon Boulevard intersects with Kendall Drive. Another driver, having missed the turn, mistakenly backed up their vehicle into Davis's lane. The impact resulted in a severe injury to Davis, causing him to lose his left eye due to the forceful impact of the car's bullet-shaped horn button, a common feature in 1954 and 1955 Cadillac models.

Following the accident, Davis wore an eye patch for approximately six months. This distinctive look became a part of his public image, gracing the cover of his debut album and making an appearance on the popular game show What's My Line?

Later, Davis was fitted with a glass eye, which he wore for the remainder of his life.

He later battled throat cancer, which led to his death. In August 1989, Davis began experiencing symptoms of cancer, including a tickle in his throat and an inability to taste food. Doctors discovered a malignant tumor in his throat. Davis, a heavy smoker who often consumed up to four packs of cigarettes a day, initially chose radiation therapy over surgery to preserve his voice. However, as the cancer recurred, his larynx was eventually removed.

HOMES Davis owned luxurious homes in Beverly Hills and Palm Springs, which became gathering spots for the Rat Pack.

TRAVEL He toured extensively throughout his career, performing globally in concert halls, theaters, and nightclubs.

DEATH Sammy Davis Jr.'s life tragically ended on May 16, 1990, at his Beverly Hills home at the age of 64. The cause of death was complications from throat cancer, a battle he had bravely fought since 1989.

News of his passing sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, prompting an outpouring of grief and tributes. Las Vegas, the city where Davis had achieved immense success, dimmed its iconic Strip lights for 10 minutes in his honor.

His funeral service, held at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California, was a testament to his enduring popularity. Open to the public, 400 tickets were distributed to fans who lined up as early as 6 am to pay their respects. The service itself drew a crowd of 1,200, including legendary figures like Frank Sinatra, Michael Jackson, Dean Martin, Stevie Wonder, and Billy Crystal.

Sammy Davis Jr. was laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park's Court of Freedom section, Garden of Honor. His final resting place is in the Southeast garden, a locked private area, marked by map #G28, Garden Crypt 577410. A fitting headstone inscription reads: "THE ENTERTAINER - HE DID IT ALL," summarizing the multifaceted brilliance that Sammy Davis Jr. brought to the world.

APPEARANCES IN MEDIA Davis appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including The Rifleman, All in the Family, and The Cosby Show. His  appearances in media were not just entertainment; they often carried significant cultural weight. His guest spots on TV frequently addressed racial barriers, such as his kiss with Archie Bunker on All in the Family, which sparked conversations about race relations in America.

Through his work, Sammy Davis Jr. not only entertained millions but also challenged stereotypes and opened doors for future generations of African-American performers.

ACHIEVEMENTS Davis received multiple accolades, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. He broke racial barriers in entertainment and inspired countless artists. 

Sources (1) Tasting Table (2) People magazine