Carmen Miranda Brazilian and American singer, dancer and actress, originally from Portugal Date of Birth: 09.02.1909 Country: Portugal

Biography of Carmen Miranda

Carmen Miranda, a Brazilian and American singer, dancer, and actress, was born in 1909 in the village of Marco de Canaveses, Portugal. Her parents moved to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil when she was still a baby. Despite never living in Portugal, Carmen maintained her Portuguese citizenship throughout her life.

From a young age, Carmen displayed her artistic abilities and dreamed of becoming a singer or actress. However, her parents did not support her choice and she kept her talents hidden. She attended a convent school and received the nickname "Carmen" from her father due to her love for the opera "Carmen" by Bizet.

At the age of 14, Carmen had to work as a saleswoman to help pay for her sister's tuberculosis treatment. She eventually opened her own successful hat business, where she would sing while working. Carmen's talent was discovered in the late 1920s, and by 1933, she had signed a two-year contract with Rádio Mayrink Veiga and appeared in her first film "A Voz do Carnaval".

By the end of the decade, Carmen Miranda had become a true star. In 1939, she was invited to participate in musical revues in the United States, where she performed on Broadway and even met President Franklin D. Roosevelt at the White House. Shortly after, Carmen found herself in Hollywood, where she became a symbol of South America with her vibrant personality and energetic performances.

Her iconic image included colorful outfits, open blouses, high platforms, and a unique hat resembling a basket of fruits. She was even nicknamed "a lady with a tutti-frutti hat". During World War II, Carmen Miranda's popularity soared, making her the highest-paid actress of her time. She appeared in over 20 films and also worked in television.

However, her fame began to decline after the war. Her last film, "Scared Stiff", was released in 1953. Although she continued to perform in clubs and on television, it was incomparable to her previous success. Carmen struggled with severe depression in her later years.

On August 4, 1955, Carmen Miranda suffered a heart attack while performing on "The Jimmy Durante Show". She passed away that night, at the age of 46, in her home in Beverly Hills. Despite rumors spread by the press, Carmen lived a healthy lifestyle.

Her body was transported to Brazil as per her wishes, and the nation mourned her passing. Around 60,000 people attended her funeral, with over half a million following her casket. A museum was later established in Rio de Janeiro in her honor. In 1995, a documentary film titled "Carmen Miranda: Bananas is My Business" was released, featuring her performances and interviews.