Sheree North, American actress and dancer (d. 2005)
Sheree North: A Versatile Star and 20th Century-Fox's Intended Successor to Marilyn Monroe
Sheree North, born Dawn Shirley Crang on January 17, 1932, in Los Angeles, California, embarked on a dynamic career that spanned stage, screen, and television before her passing on November 4, 2005, also in Los Angeles. A true triple threat, North captivated audiences with her exceptional talents as an accomplished actress, a powerful dancer, and a resonant singer, making her a versatile and enduring figure in American entertainment.
The "New Marilyn Monroe" Era at 20th Century-Fox
North gained significant public attention in the mid-1950s when she was strategically promoted by 20th Century-Fox. At a pivotal time, when their biggest star, Marilyn Monroe, was frequently embroiled in contract disputes and perceived as an unreliable presence on set, the studio actively sought to cultivate new blonde bombshells. Sheree North was prominently positioned by the studio as one of their leading candidates to potentially succeed Monroe and fill the void, a strategic move aimed at securing the studio's pipeline of top-tier talent and maintaining their appeal to audiences.
The studio invested heavily in promoting North, showcasing her vibrant screen presence and inherent versatility. She was given starring roles in major musical comedies, most notably in 'How to Be Very, Very Popular' (1955), where she received top billing alongside Hollywood veteran Betty Grable, and 'The Lieutenant Wore Skirts' (1956). Her energetic dance routines, effervescent personality, and engaging performances quickly established her as a rising star with a distinctive appeal that went beyond mere comparisons, suggesting she had the potential for widespread acclaim.
Beyond the Stardom: A Respected Career in Film, Television, and Broadway
While the initial "successor" label generated considerable media buzz, Sheree North skillfully navigated her career to establish a lasting legacy that extended far beyond this early comparison. She demonstrated remarkable versatility and a profound commitment to her craft, successfully evolving from lighthearted musical roles to commanding dramatic performances, proving her range as a serious actress.
Her later career was particularly marked by her esteemed work in television, where she became a highly respected character actress. North received critical acclaim and earned two Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or a Special: one in 1976 for her compelling performance in 'The Fatal Weakness' and another in 1978 for her role in 'Family'. She also delivered memorable guest appearances in a wide array of popular and acclaimed television series, demonstrating her adaptability and comedic timing in shows ranging from 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show' and 'Seinfeld' to 'Archie Bunker's Place', solidifying her reputation as a reliable and compelling performer across genres.
North also maintained a significant presence on Broadway throughout her career, underscoring her foundational talents and versatility as a live performer. She earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Newcomer in 1953 for her captivating performance in the musical 'Hazel Flagg', showcasing her early recognition as a formidable talent on the stage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sheree North
- Who was Sheree North?
Sheree North was an acclaimed American actress, dancer, and singer, born Dawn Shirley Crang. She was a prominent performer in Hollywood and on Broadway from the mid-20th century, known for her versatility across various genres and platforms, before her passing in 2005.
- Why was Sheree North compared to Marilyn Monroe?
In the mid-1950s, 20th Century-Fox actively promoted Sheree North as a potential successor to Marilyn Monroe. This studio strategy aimed to develop new blonde bombshell stars during a period when Marilyn Monroe's contract negotiations and perceived reliability issues were a significant concern for the studio, seeking to ensure a continuous stream of top-tier talent.
- What were Sheree North's most notable works?
Beyond her early films like 'How to Be Very, Very Popular' (1955) and 'The Lieutenant Wore Skirts' (1956), Sheree North had a distinguished television career. She earned two Emmy nominations and made memorable appearances in popular shows such as 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show', 'Seinfeld', and 'Archie Bunker's Place'. On Broadway, she received a Tony Award nomination for her role in 'Hazel Flagg' (1953).
- Did Sheree North achieve success independently of the Marilyn Monroe comparison?
Yes, absolutely. While the initial comparison brought her significant attention, Sheree North forged a successful and highly respected career that extended far beyond that early label. She was a versatile and enduring performer, earning critical acclaim and awards for her work in film, television, and on Broadway, particularly recognized for her dramatic depth later in her career.