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Annette FunicelloAmerican singer and actress
Country:
 USA |
Content:
Early Life and Disney Days
Annett Joanne Funicello was born on October 22, 1942, in New York City to Italian-American parents, Joseph and Virginia. To overcome her shyness and showcase her talent, she began music and dance lessons at a young age. At four, her family relocated to California.
In 1955, at the age of 12, Funicello auditioned for Walt Disney's "Mouseketeers" and was chosen to join the popular television series. She quickly became a household name, receiving up to 6,000 fan letters per day. Her popularity led to appearances in television shows and films produced by Disney, including "Zorro," "Elfego Baca," and "The Horsemasters."
Musical Career and Film Success
In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Funicello's singing career took off. She recorded several hit songs, including covers of other artists' works and her own original compositions. Her films from this period included "The Shaggy Dog," "Babes in Toyland," "The Misadventures of Merlin Jones," and "The Monkey's Uncle."
Personal Life
Funicello married Jack Gilardi in 1965 and had three children with him before divorcing in 1981. In 1986, she married Glenn Holt. Throughout her career, she maintained a demanding work schedule, often neglecting her health.
Health Challenges and Legacy
In 1992, Funicello was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, which was rumored to have stemmed from alcoholism. Despite her illness, she continued to work and released several albums in her later years. Funicello passed away on April 8, 2013, at the age of 70. She left behind a legacy as one of the most beloved and iconic actresses of her time.
