Born: 1927 (McKeesport, Pennsylvania)
Bette Ford (born Harriet Elizabeth Dingeldein; June 24, 1927) is an American actress and model turned professional bullfighter. She is widely known as the first American woman to fight on foot in the Plaza México, the world’s largest bullfight arena.
Born as Harriet Elizabeth Dingeldein in McKeesport, Pennsylvania in 1927, Bette Ford faced early hardships when she and her brother were abandoned by their parents. They were raised by relatives, who provided them with stability and support. After graduating from high school in 1945, Ford embarked on her career as a model and actress in New York.
Ford quickly gained recognition in the modeling industry, securing notable gigs such as the Jantzen Bathing Suit Girl, the Camay Bride, and the Parliament Cigarette Girl. Her natural beauty and charisma made her a sought-after model during that time. Simultaneously, she made her way into the acting world. Ford became a regular on popular television shows such as The Jackie Gleason Show and The Jimmy Durante Show, showcasing her talent and versatility.
However, it was during a modeling photo shoot in Bogotá, Colombia, that Ford’s life took a dramatic turn. She was introduced to the renowned matador Luis Miguel Dominguín and witnessed his mesmerizing performance in the bullfighting arena. This encounter ignited a passion within Ford, motivating her to leave her successful modeling and acting career behind to pursue her dreams of becoming a professional bullfighter.
In 1954, Warner Bros produced a documentary short film about Ford’s training journey, titled Beauty and the Bull. This documentary showcased her dedication, determination, and the challenges she faced as she prepared to enter the male-dominated world of bullfighting.
Ford’s historic debut at the Plaza México marked a turning point for women in the bullfighting community. Her courage and skill challenged traditional gender norms, inspiring other women to pursue their passions, regardless of societal expectations. For several years, Ford fought as a figura (bullfighting celebrity) in Mexico and the Philippines, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
During this time, MGM recognized Ford’s potential and offered her an acting contract. The studio even planned a biography film based on her extraordinary life story. Ford’s meeting with John Meston, the co-creator of Gunsmoke, led to a romantic relationship and eventual marriage. As a result, Ford retired from bullfighting to focus on her post-bullfighting career in acting.
In her acting career, Ford appeared in notable feature films such as Clint Eastwood’s Sudden Impact and Honkytonk Man. She also made memorable appearances in popular television series including Cheers, L.A. Law, Melrose Place, and Felicity. Ford’s talent and versatility allowed her to portray a wide range of characters throughout her acting career.
Ford’s voice can be heard in The Animatrix, the companion animated DVD of the legendary film trilogy, The Matrix. Additionally, she lent her voice to numerous commercials, further showcasing her versatility and talent.
Throughout her life, Bette Ford has exemplified bravery, resilience, and a commitment to pursuing her passions. Her groundbreaking journey as a professional bullfighter challenged societal expectations and paved the way for future generations of women in sports. Ford’s success as an actress and model further solidifies her status as a role model for women in the entertainment industry.