Born: 1921 (Inglewood, California)
Biography:
Esther Jane Williams, born on August 8, 1921, in Inglewood, California, was an American competitive swimmer and actress who made a significant impact on popular culture with her stunning aquatic performances. She began her journey to stardom by setting regional and national records as a teenager while swimming for the Los Angeles Athletic Club swim team. However, the outbreak of World War II prevented her from competing in the 1940 Summer Olympics. Despite this setback, Williams didn’t let her dreams fade away but instead found a new stage to showcase her talent.
Joining Billy Rose’s Aquacade, Williams stepped into the role previously held by Eleanor Holm, a renowned swimmer and performer, as the show moved from New York City to San Francisco. During her time in San Francisco, she had the opportunity to swim alongside the legendary Olympic gold-medal winner and Tarzan star, Johnny Weissmuller. However, it was her extraordinary performances that caught the attention of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) scouts, ultimately changing the trajectory of her career.
Williams made her initial foray into the world of cinema with several small roles, including appearances alongside the beloved Mickey Rooney in an Andy Hardy film and future frequent co-star Van Johnson in A Guy Named Joe. However, it was her role in a series of films during the 1940s and early 1950s, dubbed aquamusicals, that solidified her position as one of Hollywood’s iconic stars. These films, known for their elaborate performances featuring synchronized swimming and diving, captivated audiences with their unique blend of athleticism and entertainment.
From 1945 to 1949, Williams consistently had at least one film among the top 20 highest-grossing films of the year, establishing herself as a leading lady. Her enchanting screen presence, matched with her incredible swimming skills, made her a true box office draw. In 1952, Williams took on her only biographical role, portraying Australian swimming star Annette Kellerman in Million Dollar Mermaid. This film not only showcased her versatility but also earned her the nickname Million Dollar Mermaid, a testament to her unparalleled talent and undeniable charm.
While Williams left MGM in 1956 and appeared in a handful of unsuccessful feature films, her influence on popular culture extended beyond the silver screen. She became a successful businesswoman, investing in various ventures such as a service station, a metal products plant, a bathing suit manufacturing company, properties, and a highly popular restaurant chain named Trails. Williams further solidified her standing as an entrepreneurial force by lending her name to a line of swimming pools, retro swimwear, and instructional swimming videos for children.
The impact of Esther Williams goes beyond her cinematic achievements and business ventures. She played a crucial role in advancing the sport of synchronized swimming. Her deep passion for the sport and her dedication to its development led her to serve as a commentator for synchronized swimming at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. Williams’s efforts helped elevate synchronized swimming’s visibility and recognition, ensuring that it continued to grow as a popular discipline in the world of sports.
Throughout her life, Esther Williams faced both personal and professional challenges, demonstrating her resilience and determination. Her journey from a competitive swimmer to a beloved film star and successful businesswoman serves as a testament to her unwavering pursuit of her dreams. Esther Williams’s impact on women’s history lies not only in her groundbreaking performances but also in her ability to break barriers and redefine what it meant to be a successful woman in the entertainment industry. She remains an inspiration to aspiring athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.