Ethel Merman
Also Credited As: Ethel Agnes Zimmermann
Date of Death: February 15, 1984 (76)
Birth Place: Astoria, NY, USA
Latest News on Ethel Merman:
Marc Shaiman & Scott Wittman To Receive GMHC 2025 Howard Ashman Award (Jan 3, 2025)
Review: David Marino's show at Birdland Was Passion Plus Pow (Jan 3, 2025)
Feature: Monthly Birthday Tribute: Take the Quiz! (Jan 1, 2025)
Marc Shaiman & Scott Wittman To Receive GMHC 2025 Howard Ashman Award (Jan 3, 2025)
Review: David Marino's show at Birdland Was Passion Plus Pow (Jan 3, 2025)
Feature: Monthly Birthday Tribute: Take the Quiz! (Jan 1, 2025)
BIO
She has been called "the undisputed First Lady of the musical comedy stage". Over her distinguished career in theater she became known for her performances in shows such as Anything Goes, Annie Get Your Gun, Gypsy, and Hello, Dolly!
She is also known for her film roles in Anything Goes (1936), Call Me Madam (1953), There's No Business Like Show Business (1954), and It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963). Among many accolades, she received the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her performance in Call Me Madam, a Grammy Award for Gypsy and Drama Desk Award for Hello, Dolly!
Among the many standards introduced by Merman in Broadway musicals are "I Got Rhythm" (from Girl Crazy); "Everything's Coming Up Roses", "Some People", and "Rose's Turn" (from Gypsy—Merman starred as Rose in the original 1959 Broadway production); and the Cole Porter songs "It's De-Lovely" (from Red, Hot and Blue), "Friendship" (from Du Barry Was a Lady), and "I Get a Kick Out of You", "You're the Top", and "Anything Goes" (from Anything Goes). The Irving Berlin song "There's No Business Like Show Business", written for the musical Annie Get Your Gun, became Merman's signature song.
Photos
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Adolph Green, Betty Comden, Al Pacino, Jerry Herman, Burgess Meredith, Susan Strassberg, Angela lansbury, Lillian Gish, Carol Channing, Ethel Merman, Princess Grace Kelly and Ellen Burstyn attend the Theatre Hall Of Fame Awards held on March 28, 1982 at t
Date:
01/21/2019
From: Photo Flashback: Inside the 1982 Theatre Hall Of Fame Awards
Adolph Green, Betty Comden, Al Pacino, Jerry Herman, Burgess Meredith, Susan Strassberg, Angela lansbury, Lillian Gish, Carol Channing, Ethel Merman, Princess Grace Kelly and Ellen Burstyn at the Theatre Hall Of Fame Awards held on March 28, 1982 at the U
Date:
01/21/2019
From: Photo Flashback: Inside the 1982 Theatre Hall Of Fame Awards
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STAGE CREDITS
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1939
May Daly / Mme. La Comtesse du Barry
May Daly
Mme. La Comtesse du Barry
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1936
"Nails" O'Reilly Duquesne
Nails O'Reilly Duquesne
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1932
Wanda Brill
Wanda Brill
Lora (Blackmail)</i>
The Queen (Eadie)</i>
Lora
The Queen
Movies
Follow the Leader
[ 1930 ] Helen King
[ 1930 ] Helen King
Kid Millions
[ 1934 ] Dot Clark
[ 1934 ] Dot Clark
We're Not Dressing
[ 1934 ] Edith
[ 1934 ] Edith
The Big Broadcast of 1936
[ 1935 ] Ethel Merman
[ 1935 ] Ethel Merman
Strike Me Pink
[ 1936 ] Joyce Lennox
[ 1936 ] Joyce Lennox
Anything Goes
[ 1936 ] Reno Sweeney
[ 1936 ] Reno Sweeney
Happy Landing
[ 1938 ] Flo Kelly
[ 1938 ] Flo Kelly
Alexander's Ragtime Band
[ 1938 ] Jerry Allen
[ 1938 ] Jerry Allen
Straight Place and Show
[ 1938 ] Linda Tyler
[ 1938 ] Linda Tyler
Stage Door Canteen
[ 1943 ] Ethel Merman
[ 1943 ] Ethel Merman
Call Me Madam
[ 1953 ] Sally Adams
[ 1953 ] Sally Adams
There's No Business Like Show Business
[ 1954 ] Molly Donahue
[ 1954 ] Molly Donahue
It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World
[ 1963 ] Mrs. Marcus
[ 1963 ] Mrs. Marcus
The Art of Love
[ 1965 ] Madame Coco La Fontaine
[ 1965 ] Madame Coco La Fontaine
Journey Back to Oz
[ 1972 ] Mombi, The Bad Witch
[ 1972 ] Mombi, The Bad Witch
Won Ton Ton: The Dog Who Saved Hollywood
[ 1976 ] Hedda Parsons
[ 1976 ] Hedda Parsons
Airplane!
[ 1980 ] Lieutenant Hurwitz
[ 1980 ] Lieutenant Hurwitz
TV Shows
That Girl
Ethel Merman
Ethel Merman
The Love Boat
Roz Smith
Roz Smith
Awards and Nominations
winner
Tony Awards - 1972 - Special Tony Award
Ethel Merman
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1970 - Outstanding Performance
Ethel MermanHello, Dolly!
winner
Drama Desk Awards - 1970 - Outstanding Performance
Ethel MermanHello, Dolly!
Tony Awards - 1960 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
Ethel Merman, Gypsy
Tony Awards - 1957 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
Ethel Merman, Happy Hunting
winner
Tony Awards - 1951 - Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical
Ethel Merman, Call Me Madam
Videos
Audra McDonald Will Return to Broadway This Fall in GYPSY; Watch New Trailer
by Nicole Rosky - May 29, 2024
Video: Watch Kelly Clarkson Sing 'I Get a Kick Out of You' From ANYTHING GOES
by Michael Major - Nov 21, 2023
Video: Company of NEW YORK, NEW YORK Serenades John Kander for His 96th Birthday!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 17, 2023
VIDEO: The Broadway League Launches THIS IS BROADWAY Initiative With Short Film Narrated by Oprah Winfrey
by Stephi Wild - Aug 30, 2021
Exclusive: First Listen To 'Unworthy Of Your Love' From LOSING MY MIND: A SONDHEIM DISCO FEVER DREAM
by Alan Henry - Mar 15, 2020
VIDEO: Katie Webber Receives the Legacy Robe For TINA - THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL
by Stephi Wild - Dec 6, 2019
TV Exclusive: Neil Sean Meets Theatre Legend and 42ND STREET Star Bonnie Langford
by Nicole Rosky - Oct 2, 2018
VIDEO: Stars Turn Out to Help BC/EFA Raise Over $900,000 at the 2018 Broadway Flea Market
by A.A. Cristi - Oct 1, 2018
VIDEO: On This Day, February 15- Celebrating the Life and Career of Stage Legend, Ethel Merman
by A.A. Cristi - Feb 15, 2018
Video Flashback: ZIP! Elaine Stritch Takes Connecticut by Way of the Shubert Theater
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 7, 2017
Video: Highlights from NO WAY TO TREAT A LADY Concert at Feinstein's/54 Below
by A.A. Cristi - Nov 1, 2017
VIDEO: Start Your Weekend Off with a Medley from Broadway Legend Ethel Merman
by Julie Musbach - Sep 30, 2017
VIDEO: BWW Exclusive: Ethel Merman Performs GYPSY Showstopper on PBS' JFK: THE LOST Inaugural Gala
by Caryn Robbins - Jun 6, 2017
SHOWTUNE SHUFFLE: The Rest and Best of Them Take a Crack at a HELLO, DOLLY! Classic
by Nicole Rosky - Apr 21, 2017
News
Marc Shaiman & Scott Wittman To Receive GMHC 2025 Howard Ashman Award
GMHC will honor legendary songwriters Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman with the 2025 Howard Ashman Award. The award will be presented at GMHC's 10th annual Cabaret & Howard Ashman Award, a fundraising event hosted by Joe's Pub at The Public Theater.
GMHC will honor legendary songwriters Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman with the 2025 Howard Ashman Award. The award will be presented at GMHC's 10th annual Cabaret & Howard Ashman Award, a fundraising event hosted by Joe's Pub at The Public Theater.
Review: David Marino's show at Birdland Was Passion Plus Pow
A crooner with charisma, a vocalist with versatility, an old soul with new energy: that’s dynamic and delightful David Marino. His powerful voice radiates star power. He returned to Birdland for another sold-out standout concert to close out 2024.
A crooner with charisma, a vocalist with versatility, an old soul with new energy: that’s dynamic and delightful David Marino. His powerful voice radiates star power. He returned to Birdland for another sold-out standout concert to close out 2024.
Feature: Monthly Birthday Tribute: Take the Quiz!
Take BWW Cabaret's monthly quiz and see how much you know about music stars born in January. If your New Year's Resolution is to learn more about music, here's a fun way to do that for New Year's.
Take BWW Cabaret's monthly quiz and see how much you know about music stars born in January. If your New Year's Resolution is to learn more about music, here's a fun way to do that for New Year's.
Broadway Buying Guide: December 30, 2024- It's GYPSY's Turn on Top
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, December 30, 2024.
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, December 30, 2024.
Review: RICHARD SKIPPER CELEBRATES 'HELLO, DOLLY!' at Green Room 42 Is Full of History & Joy
RICHARD SKIPPER CELEBRATES 'HELLO, DOLLY!' revisits a classic musical with history and joy. See this cabaret-style song & talk show the next time it comes around.
RICHARD SKIPPER CELEBRATES 'HELLO, DOLLY!' revisits a classic musical with history and joy. See this cabaret-style song & talk show the next time it comes around.
Broadway Buying Guide: December 23, 2024- HAMILTON Is Back on Top
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, December 23, 2024.
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, December 23, 2024.
All Roads Theatre Company To Present ONE FOR MY BABY World Premiere And More At El Portal Theatre
All Roads Theatre Company has announced its inaugural season at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood, beginning with the World Premiere Musical ONE FOR MY BABY, with a score by the incomparable Harold Arlen and headlined by Broadway stars LANA GORDON and LUBA MASON.
All Roads Theatre Company has announced its inaugural season at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood, beginning with the World Premiere Musical ONE FOR MY BABY, with a score by the incomparable Harold Arlen and headlined by Broadway stars LANA GORDON and LUBA MASON.
Interview: Lea Salonga Talks 'Sounding Joy' with the Boston Pops
Lea Salonga, who makes her home in New York, was in Los Angeles recently when she took time out for a telephone call to discuss her new holiday album, her debut with the Boston Pops, and more.
Lea Salonga, who makes her home in New York, was in Los Angeles recently when she took time out for a telephone call to discuss her new holiday album, her debut with the Boston Pops, and more.
Review: NUNCRACKERS: THE NUNSENSE CHRISTMAS MUSICAL at Desert Theatreworks
What do you call a nun who can sing? A sister act! And what do you call four nuns and a monk who sing and dance during Christmas? “Nuncrackers!” now playing weekends at Desert Theatreworks through December 29.
What do you call a nun who can sing? A sister act! And what do you call four nuns and a monk who sing and dance during Christmas? “Nuncrackers!” now playing weekends at Desert Theatreworks through December 29.
A History of GYPSY's Mama Rose and the Women Who Have Played Her
Gypsy is back on Broadway, starring Audra McDonald in the iconic role of Mama Rose. BroadwayWorld is looking back on some of the performers who have taken on the musical's lead role, from Ethel Merman to Patti LuPone, Bernadette Peters, and more.
Gypsy is back on Broadway, starring Audra McDonald in the iconic role of Mama Rose. BroadwayWorld is looking back on some of the performers who have taken on the musical's lead role, from Ethel Merman to Patti LuPone, Bernadette Peters, and more.
Broadway Buying Guide: December 2, 2024- HELL'S KITCHEN, REDWOOD Get a Parade Boost
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, December 2, 2024.
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, December 2, 2024.
Broadway Buying Guide: November 18, 2024- MAYBE HAPPY ENDING Arrives on Broadway
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, November 18, 2024.
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, November 18, 2024.
Broadway Buying Guide: November 11, 2024- Audra McDonald returns in GYPSY
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, November 11, 2024.
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, November 11, 2024.
Broadway Buying Guide: November 4, 2024- SWEPT AWAY Arrives on Broadway
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, November 4, 2024.
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, November 4, 2024.
Klea Blackhurst to Honor Ethel Merman in THE BOX SET at Chelsea Table + Stage
CHELSEA TABLE + STAGE will present the return of Klea Blackhurst in “The Box Set,” a fantastic season-long retrospective of the celebrated theater and concert artist’s acclaimed shows. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
CHELSEA TABLE + STAGE will present the return of Klea Blackhurst in “The Box Set,” a fantastic season-long retrospective of the celebrated theater and concert artist’s acclaimed shows. Learn more and see how to purchase tickets.
Broadway Buying Guide: October 21, 2024- SUNSET BLVD Storms Back to Broadway
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, October 21, 2024.
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, October 21, 2024.
Mitzi Gaynor, Star of SOUTH PACIFIC, Passes Away at 93
BroadwayWorld is saddened to report that Emmy-winning singer and actress Mitzi Gaynor has passed away. She was 93 years old.
BroadwayWorld is saddened to report that Emmy-winning singer and actress Mitzi Gaynor has passed away. She was 93 years old.
Nitz Howe Experience Celebrates 25th Anniversary At Elgin's Hemmens In November
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Nitz/Howe Experience at Elgin's Hemmens on November 24. Enjoy a night of audience participation, comedy, and music with After Dark Award winners Daryl Nitz and George Howe.
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Nitz/Howe Experience at Elgin's Hemmens on November 24. Enjoy a night of audience participation, comedy, and music with After Dark Award winners Daryl Nitz and George Howe.
Broadway Buying Guide: October 14, 2024- OUR TOWN, GYPSY, and More
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, October 14, 2024.
Looking for the best deals on Broadway shows? Welcome to our new weekly guide to the most popular shows listed on BroadwayWorld. Check out which shows are selling this week, October 14, 2024.
NITZ/HOWE EXPERIENCE Cabaret Show to Celebrate 25th Anniversary at Davenport's
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the NITZ/HOWE EXPERIENCE, Chicago's longest-running cabaret show, featuring Daryl Nitz and George Howe with vocal impressions and audience participation every Saturday. Learn how to purchase tickets.
Celebrate the 25th anniversary of the NITZ/HOWE EXPERIENCE, Chicago's longest-running cabaret show, featuring Daryl Nitz and George Howe with vocal impressions and audience participation every Saturday. Learn how to purchase tickets.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many Broadway shows has Ethel Merman been in?
Ethel Merman has appeared on Broadway in 19 shows.
How many West End shows has Ethel Merman been in?
Ethel Merman has not appeared in the West End
What awards has Ethel Merman been nominated for?
Ethel Merman has been nominated for several awards throughout her career. She received a Special Tony Award at the Tony Awards. She was also nominated for Outstanding Performance at the Drama Desk Awards for her role in "Hello, Dolly!" Additionally, she received nominations for Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical at the Tony Awards for her performances in "Gypsy," "Happy Hunting," and "Call Me Madam."
What awards has Ethel Merman won?
Ethel Merman has won several awards throughout her career. She received a Special Tony Award at the Tony Awards. She also won the Outstanding Performance award at the Drama Desk Awards for her role in Hello, Dolly! Additionally, she won the Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical at the Tony Awards for her performance in Call Me Madam.
Videos