Last updated on: October 23, 2024
Long before George Clooney took center stage, there was the legendary singer and actress Rosemary Clooney. Many people know her today as George Clooney’s aunt, but her life story is worth more than this incredible career background. She flourished in the 1950s and would always be remembered for that gentle voice and the old songs, apart from the talent that she also showed on the screen. Let’s dig a little deeper into her life and more of the things she accomplished during her lifetime.
| Quick Facts About Rosemary Clooney | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rosemary Clooney |
| Birth Date
Died |
May 23, 1928
29 June 2002 |
| Occupation | Singer and Actress |
| Husband/Wife | Dante DiPaolo (m. 1997–2002), José Ferrer (m. 1964–1967), José Ferrer (m. 1953–1961) |
| Education | Studied at the College of Mount St. Joseph; also received training in music and voice |
| Age | 74 years old (at the time of her passing) |
| Parents | Andrew Joseph Clooney, Marie Frances Guilfoyle |
| Siblings | Nick Clooney, Betty Clooney, Gail Stone |
| Children | Miguel Ferrer, Gabriel Ferrer, Rafael Ferrer, Monsita Ferrer, Maria Ferrer |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $20 million at the time of her death |
| Famous Songs | “Come On-a My House,” “Botch-a-Me,” “Hey There” |
| Notable Film | White Christmas (1954) |
Background Life and Early Family End
Born on May 23, 1928, in Maysville, Kentucky, Rosemary Clooney grew up in a big, musical family. Music is an important part of her life from the age of a toddler. Her mother, Marie Frances, was half Irish and half German; her father, Andrew Clooney, was a radio announcer. That’s close enough to radio and media to perhaps explain her participation in show business.
Rosemary had four siblings, and music is something that they all share. Her younger brother, Nick Clooney, became a well-known news anchor on television. Nick would eventually become the father of George Clooney, making Rosemary George’s aunt.
A Career in Music and Movies
It was not until the 1940s that Rosemary’s real career began to take off as she started singing with her sister Betty on a radio show in Cincinnati. But it did not take long before she caught the attention of the record producers. That was 1951 and “Come On-a My House” was a huge hit. Overnight, she was a sensation.
Her voice was unique in the music field. Rosemary was one of the most beautiful singers, having a gorgeous, richly smooth tone that perfectly harmonized with pop and jazz melodies. Among her best records are “Botch-a-Me,” “Tenderly,” and “Hey There.” She also maintained many records throughout her career. Some of them are still sought after by enthusiasts.
But besides being a singer, she was also an outstanding actress. The most famous film role she ever played took her starring opposite Bing Crosby in White Christmas in 1954. That movie succeeded really well and is still a classic during the holidays.
Personal Struggle and Challenges
The life of Rosemary wasn’t easy, because she had all these personal crises: depression, abuse, drug addiction, and much more. She was at the lowest point in her career in the 1960s. Rosemary left the stage for some years to manage her health problems. She really went through a very tough time, but from family and close friends, she gained forces for herself.
And, of course, in the 1970s, Rosemary also made a marvelous return to the center. She began performing once again; sometimes she sang jazz with big bands. The fans finally came to rediscover her charm, and her career soared high once again. Only strength and talent helped her come back to the stage.
A Special Connection to George Clooney
Most people alive today remember Rosemary as the aunt of George Clooney, the famous actor and filmmaker. George has told on many occasions how much Rosemary meant to him. He admired her strength, talent, and warmth.
George was fond of his aunt; he would go out of his way to do anything for her. Many ways, she inspired him. She may have died in 2002, but she will remain forever alive-not only in the evergreen movie and music indulgence but also in the influence she had on her family.
READ ALSO: George Clooney Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Legacy and Lasting Influence
Long, illustrious career. The career of Rosemary Clooney spanned more than 50 years. As a performer, she had enormous influence both on music and in film, being one of the most popular singers of her generation. Timeless voice, unbeatable performances: she left her mark on the entertainment field.
What is utterly impressive about Rosemary is her professional success, but even more inspiring is her personal story. She went through great challenges but still dared to fight for a comeback. Her story is that of perseverance and love for the craft.
Rosemary will not only be remembered for her work but also for the joy brought to millions of fans around the world. Her music touches hearts even to this day, and her films are enjoyed by a new generation. Her connection to George Clooney only adds to her influence.
Source: celebs.infoseemedia.com
