Davis, Sammy, Jr. (1925-1990), was one of the most versatile and exciting entertainers of his time. Davis was famous for the high energy of his performance and for his skill as a singer, dancer, comedian, mimic, and actor. He starred in Broadway musicals and in motion pictures as well as in nightclubs. During the peak of his career, he was a member of an informal group of famous performers called the “Rat Pack,” led by Frank Sinatra.
Samuel George Davis, Jr., was born on Dec. 8, 1925, in the Harlem section of New York City. He began performing as a child in a family vaudeville act led by his uncle Will Mastin. In 1945, the act was reduced to three performers—Sammy, his father, and his uncle. The trio became known as the Will Mastin Trio Starring Sammy Davis, Jr. It gained great popularity in nightclubs and theaters. Davis began a solo career in the early 1950’s. He recorded a number of hit songs, including “Something’s Gotta Give” (1955), “What Kind of Fool Am I?” (1962), ”I’ve Gotta Be Me” (1968), and ”Mr. Bojangles” and “Candy Man” (both 1972).
Davis made his Broadway debut starring in the musical comedy Mr. Wonderful (1956). He later starred in the musical Golden Boy (1964). Davis made his movie debut in The Benny Goodman Story (1956). His other films included Porgy and Bess (1959), Ocean’s 11 (1960), Sweet Charity (1968), Cannonball Run (1981), and Tap (1989).
Davis had a turbulent personal life. He was in a serious automobile accident in 1954, in which he lost an eye. Davis, who was black, attracted controversy when he married the white Swedish actress Mai Britt in 1960. They divorced in 1967. He also received publicity for converting to Judaism and for switching his political support from the Democratic Party to the Republican Party. In 1968, Davis was awarded the Spingarn Medal for his achievements in entertainment. He wrote three autobiographies, Yes, I Can (1965), Hollywood in a Suitcase (1980), and Why Me? (1989).
