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DagmarAmerican actress, model and television star of the fifties.
Date of Birth: 29.11.1921
Country:  USA |
Content:
Biography of Dagmar
Early Life and CareerDagmar, an American actress, model, and television personality of the 1950s, was born Virginia Ruth Egnor in Yawkey, West Virginia. After finishing school in Huntington, she began studying business management while working part-time in local diners. In 1941, Virginia married Angelo Lewis and moved to New York, where Lewis served in Long Island. It was during this time that Virginia tried her hand at acting under the stage name "Jennie Lewis". She also worked as a model, and her colleagues suggested she audition for the famous comedians Ole Olsen and Chic Johnson. Despite having no prior experience, Virginia managed to land a role on Broadway in the production "Laffing Room Only" at the Winter Garden Theatre from December 23, 1944, to July 14, 1945. She later appeared in the Broadway comedy "Burlesque" with Bert Lahr from December 25, 1946, to January 10, 1948.
Rise to Fame
In 1950, Jerry Lester hired Dagmar to join his groundbreaking late-night show "Broadway Open House". It was during this time that Virginia adopted the stage name "Dagmar". She gained popularity for her low-cut dress and played the role of a classic dumb blonde. Whether it was her acting skills or her curvaceous figure, Dagmar quickly became a sensation. Her success led to a significant increase in her salary, from a meager $75 to $1250. Eventually, Dagmar even surpassed Jerry Lester in popularity and took over the show.
Television Career
In the early 1950s, Dagmar became one of the main stars on television. She primarily appeared in comedic sketches and had the opportunity to work with Eddie Cantor, Milton Berle, Phil Foster, Bob Hope, and other famous comedians. In 1951, Dagmar was featured as the main subject in a photo spread for Life magazine, captured by legendary American photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt. The following year, she launched her own television show, "Dagmar's Canteen", where she sang, danced, interviewed guests, and performed comedic acts. However, the show had a short run.
Later Life and Death
After the cancellation of her television show, Dagmar relocated to Las Vegas and continued to make occasional appearances on popular shows. However, her career had already reached its peak. Her marriage to Angelo Lewis eventually ended in divorce. During the majority of the 1950s, Virginia was in a relationship with actor Danny Dayton and later directed her attention towards musician Dick Hinds. Dagmar passed away on October 9, 2001, and the official cause of her death was not disclosed.
