Eleanor Holm, American swimmer and actress (b. 1913)

Eleanor G. Holm (December 6, 1913 – January 31, 2004) was a remarkable American figure, best known as an Olympic gold medalist in swimming whose promising athletic career was dramatically cut short, leading to a high-profile life beyond the pool as a socialite, interior designer, and even a Hollywood actress.

An Olympic Swimmer of Distinction

A native of New York, Eleanor Holm quickly rose to prominence as a formidable competition swimmer, specializing in the backstroke. Her talent was evident early on, earning her a spot on the U.S. Olympic team for the 1928 Summer Olympics in Amsterdam, where she reached the semi-finals in the 100-meter backstroke. Four years later, at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympics, Holm achieved her crowning athletic glory, securing the gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke, solidifying her status as one of the world's premier swimmers.

The Infamous 1936 Berlin Olympics Expulsion

Despite her continued excellence and preparation, Holm's third Olympic appearance, scheduled for the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, was controversially curtailed. On the transatlantic voyage to Germany aboard the SS Manhattan, she was accused of consuming alcohol and engaging in late-night socializing, perceived by some officials as a violation of team rules and the strict amateur code of conduct then enforced by the Olympic Committee.

The decision to expel Holm from the U.S. Olympic team was made by Avery Brundage, then president of the American Olympic Committee and later a controversial long-serving president of the International Olympic Committee. Brundage was known for his stringent adherence to amateurism and often perceived as autocratic. The expulsion, which garnered significant media attention, was met with widespread public and team sympathy for Holm, with many considering the punishment disproportionately harsh given the alleged infraction. This incident became a defining moment in Holm's life and a notable episode in Olympic history, highlighting tensions between athlete freedoms and administrative control.

A Life Beyond the Lanes: From Socialite to Star

Following her controversial departure from the Olympic stage, Eleanor Holm transitioned seamlessly into a high-profile public life that captivated American society. Her striking beauty and vivacious personality made her a popular socialite, leading to several notable marriages, including one to the celebrated showman and impresario Billy Rose, which further amplified her presence in the media spotlight.

Holm also ventured into the entertainment industry. In 1938, she co-starred in the Hollywood film Tarzan's Revenge, portraying the character Eleanor Reed opposite Olympic decathlon gold medalist Glenn Morris, who played Tarzan. This role marked her foray into acting, adding another dimension to her already diverse public persona. Later, Eleanor Holm established herself as a successful interior designer, curating elegant spaces for a discerning clientele, showcasing her versatility and entrepreneurial spirit beyond the realms of sport and celebrity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eleanor Holm

What was Eleanor Holm's primary swimming event?
Eleanor Holm specialized in the backstroke, earning her Olympic gold medal in the 100-meter backstroke at the 1932 Los Angeles Games.
Why was Eleanor Holm expelled from the 1936 Olympics?
She was expelled by Avery Brundage, head of the American Olympic Committee, for alleged breaches of team discipline, specifically consuming alcohol and socializing late on the ship en route to the Berlin Games. The decision was highly controversial at the time.
What movie did Eleanor Holm star in?
Eleanor Holm co-starred in the 1938 Hollywood film Tarzan's Revenge, playing the character Eleanor Reed alongside Glenn Morris as Tarzan.
What did Eleanor Holm do after her swimming career?
After her swimming career ended, Eleanor Holm had a high-profile life as a socialite, became an actress, and later established a successful career as an interior designer.