Shirley Ross

Shirley Ross, born Bernice Gaunt on January 7, 1913, in Omaha, Nebraska, was a dynamic blonde with undeniable talent, yet her career as a musical film star remained largely overshadowed. She is most famously remembered for her collaboration with the iconic Bob Hope on the classic song "Thanks for the Memory" in the vibrant musical The Big Broadcast of 1938, which became Hope's signature tune.

Shirley’s journey began when her family relocated to California, where she attended Hollywood High School and later pursued studies at UCLA. With a stunning singing voice and proficiency on the piano, she gained recognition performing with Gus Arnheim’s band at prestigious venues, including the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, while also making a name for herself in radio. Additionally, she appeared in a West Coast production of "Anything Goes."

Her film career kicked off when MGM cast her in an uncredited role in the 1933 Jean Harlow film Blonde Bombshell. Over the next few years, she featured in several films such as Hollywood Party (1934) and Manhattan Melodrama (1934), before earning a more prominent role in the 1936 classic San Francisco alongside Clark Gable.

In 1936, she shifted to Paramount, where she frequently starred opposite Bing Crosby and Bob Hope in light comedies like The Big Broadcast of 1937 and Waikiki Wedding. Although many of these films were not critically acclaimed, she showcased her charm and vocal talent. Ross also led films like Prison Farm (1938) and A Song for Miss Julie (1945), her final project.

After her film career, Shirley Ross faded from the public eye. She was married twice, first to agent John Kenneth 'Ken' Dolan and then to Everett S. 'Eddie' Blum, and had three children. She passed away from cancer in Menlo Park, California, in 1975.