Introduction
Esther Williams was a Hollywood icon in the 1940s and 1950s. She was not only a talented actress but also an Olympic swimmer. Her stunning performances in synchronized swimming in films like “Bathing Beauty” and “Million Dollar Mermaid” inspired generations of swimmers. But Esther’s fan base was not limited to just water enthusiasts. She was a fashion icon who endorsed beauty products and swimwear. She lived a life of glamour and luxury, but it wasn’t until after her death that her fortune was revealed.
Early Life and Career
Esther Williams was born in Inglewood, California, in 1921. Her parents were from Missouri and had migrated west in search of work. Her father was a sign painter, and her mother was a schoolteacher. Esther was a natural athlete and was interested in swimming from a young age. She won her first swimming competition when she was just 10 years old. Her swimming career took off when she joined the Los Angeles Athletic Club and got a chance to train with the best swimmers in the country.
Hollywood Career
Esther Williams was discovered by MGM talent scouts while she was working as a model. They were impressed by her natural beauty and athletic abilities. She signed a contract with MGM and made her film debut in “Andy Hardy’s Double Life” (1942) alongside Mickey Rooney. Esther Williams went on to star in many popular films like “Thrill of a Romance,” “Easy to Wed,” and “Dangerous When Wet.” She was known for her synchronized swimming scenes, which were choreographed by legendary swim coach Busby Berkeley.
Endorsements
Esther Williams was not only an actress but also a fashion icon. She endorsed swimwear, beauty products, and jewelry. She was the face of Jantzen swimwear and wrote an advice column for their magazine. Esther was also a frequent guest on talk shows, where she shared her beauty secrets and fitness tips.
Real Estate Investments
Esther Williams was a shrewd businesswoman and made wise investments in real estate. She owned multiple properties, including a ranch in California and a beach house in Mexico. She also invested in commercial properties, which provided a steady source of income.
Marriage and Family
Esther Williams was married four times and had three children. Her first marriage was to Leonard Kovner, a medical student. They separated after just a few months of marriage. Her second marriage was to Ben Gage, a singer and actor. They had two children together but divorced in 1959. Esther’s third marriage was to Fernando Lamas, an actor. They appeared in several films together and had one child. After Lamas’ death in 1982, Esther married Edward Bell, a businessman.
Charitable Work
Esther Williams was involved in various charitable organizations. She was a board member of the International Swimming Hall of Fame and the National Kidney Foundation. She also supported the Women’s Sports Foundation and the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Net Worth
Esther Williams’ net worth was estimated to be around $40 million at the time of her death in 2013. She made a fortune from her films, endorsements, and real estate investments. Her estate was contested by her children, who claimed that their stepfather, Edward Bell, had unduly influenced her to change her will. The legal battle was settled out of court, and Esther’s fortune was divided among her children.
Conclusion
Esther Williams was a talented actress and a trailblazer for women in sports. She lived a life of glamour and luxury, but it wasn’t until after her death that the true extent of her fortune was revealed. Esther’s legacy continues to inspire swimmers and fashion enthusiasts, and her films are still enjoyed by audiences around the world.
FAQs
Q1. What was Esther Williams’ most famous film?
A1. Esther Williams’ most famous film was “Million Dollar Mermaid”, released in 1952.
Q2. Did Esther Williams have any siblings?
A2. Esther Williams had two older brothers.
Q3. Did Esther Williams win any Olympic medals?
A3. Esther Williams did not win any Olympic medals because she competed before synchronized swimming was recognized as an Olympic sport.
Q4. What was Esther Williams’ beauty secret?
A4. Esther Williams’ beauty secret was swimming. She believed that regular swimming kept her skin and body in good condition.
Q5. What was the cause of Esther Williams’ death?
A5. Esther Williams died of natural causes in her sleep on June 6, 2013, at the age of 91.