This seasoned star has faced immense sorrow, enduring the profound loss of both children from her first marriage and later navigating an abusive relationship in her second. After many years, the celebrity rediscovered love and revealed her secret to a lasting, fulfilling partnership.
This iconic actress began her Hollywood journey under challenging circumstances, compelled to work as a dancer to make ends meet. Despite experiencing heartbreak with two divorces from her previous marriages, this public figure found lasting love at 60. See photos of her and her spouse.
This actress, who is also a singer, had a rocky start in Hollywood. | Source: Getty Images
The famous actress, who is also a singer, developed a passion for singing through evenings spent with her mother, who encouraged her pursuits. As a teenager, she prioritized her singing and acting studies over dating.
During a meeting with a Warner Brothers talent scout, she received a discouraging remark about her appearance, which reinforced her decision to focus on character roles rather than conform to expectations.
While staying at the Hollywood Studio Club, she worked as a dancer at Ciro’s nightclub, where Elvis Presley once requested a date. They met later on set, and she noted his polite and pleasant demeanor.
The actress was forced to take a job as a dancer after being discouraged by talent scout for an acting role. | Source: Getty Images
After starting her Hollywood career, the actress met TV actor Michael Ansara on a blind date. They married in 1958, and in 1965, welcomed their son, Matthew Ansara.
However, in 1971, her second pregnancy ended in tragedy; she carried a stillborn baby to full term, leading to deep depression. This unprocessed grief impacted her relationship with Michael, and after more than a decade together, they divorced in 1974.
Around this time, their son Matthew began experimenting with drugs. When the mother of one remarried and moved to Chicago, Matthew stayed in Los Angeles with his father, who threatened custody action.
For six years, the actress traveled frequently to see her child, visiting every three weeks. Later, she recognized the need for therapy to fully address her grief.
