Sammy Davis Jr Ethnicity , Net Worth, Age, Bio, & Family

Sammy Davis Jr., often referred to as “Mr. Entertainment,” was a multi-talented American entertainer renowned for his singing, dancing, acting, and comedic prowess. As a member of the famous Rat Pack, he became one of the most iconic and versatile performers of the 20th century. Despite the challenges of racial prejudice and personal adversity, Davis left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. This article delves into various facets of his life, including his ethnicity, net worth, biography, career, family, and more.
Sammy Davis Jr Ethnicity
Sammy Davis Jr. was of African-American and Afro-Cuban descent. His father, Sammy Davis Sr., was African-American, while his mother, Elvera Sanchez, was of Afro-Cuban heritage. This diverse background influenced Davis’s artistry and added depth to his identity as an entertainer who broke racial barriers in a segregated America.
Sammy Davis Jr Net Worth
At the time of his death in 1990, Sammy Davis Jr.’s estate was reported to be in financial trouble, largely due to poor financial management and substantial tax debts. However, during his career, he amassed a significant fortune. Adjusted for inflation, his estimated net worth would have been around $5 million. Davis earned his wealth through a prolific career spanning over five decades, including music, films, television, and live performances.
Sammy Davis Jr Biography
Early Life
Sammy Davis Jr. was born on December 8, 1925, in Harlem, New York City. Raised in a family of performers, he was exposed to the entertainment industry from an early age. His parents’ separation led him to be raised by his father and his adoptive uncle, Will Mastin, both of whom were vaudeville performers. Davis joined their act, the Will Mastin Trio, as a young boy and quickly became a standout performer.
Challenges and Military Service
During World War II, Davis served in the U.S. Army, where he faced significant racial discrimination. These experiences shaped his views on civil rights and fueled his determination to succeed in the entertainment industry despite the odds.
Sammy Davis Jr Career
Music
Sammy Davis Jr. was a gifted vocalist known for his ability to sing across genres, including jazz, pop, and Broadway. His most famous songs include:
- “The Candy Man”
- “I’ve Gotta Be Me”
- “Mr. Bojangles”
Davis released numerous albums and was celebrated for his dynamic live performances, which showcased his singing, dancing, and comedic talents.
Film and Television
Davis appeared in several notable films, including:
- “Ocean’s 11” (1960)
- “Robin and the 7 Hoods” (1964)
- “Sweet Charity” (1969)
On television, he guest-starred on shows like “All in the Family” and “The Cosby Show”, breaking barriers as one of the first African-American entertainers to gain mainstream acceptance.
Broadway
Davis also enjoyed a successful Broadway career, earning acclaim for his roles in productions such as:
- “Golden Boy” (1964)
- “Mr. Wonderful” (1956)
Activism
In addition to his artistic accomplishments, Davis was a prominent civil rights activist. He marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and used his celebrity to advocate for racial equality.
Sammy Davis Jr Family
Sammy Davis Jr. was born to Sammy Davis Sr. and Elvera Sanchez. His close relationship with his father and Will Mastin, whom he considered a second father, was central to his life. The trio’s act became a cornerstone of his early career and laid the foundation for his success.
Sammy Davis Jr Age, Height, and Weight
- Age at Death: Sammy Davis Jr. passed away on May 16, 1990, at the age of 64.
- Height: He stood at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm).
- Weight: His weight fluctuated throughout his life, but he was generally around 120 pounds (54 kg).
Sammy Davis Jr Wife, Girlfriends, and Children
Wife
Sammy Davis Jr. was married three times:
- Loray White (1958-1959): Their marriage was short-lived and primarily motivated by the pressures of racial dynamics in Hollywood.
- May Britt (1960-1968): A Swedish actress, May Britt’s interracial marriage to Davis caused significant controversy at the time. The couple had one biological daughter, Tracey Davis, and adopted two sons, Mark and Jeff.
- Altovise Gore (1970-1990): A dancer and actress, Altovise was Davis’s partner until his death in 1990.
Girlfriends
Before his marriages, Davis had high-profile relationships, including a rumored romance with actress Kim Novak, which was heavily scrutinized due to racial tensions in the 1950s.
Children
Davis had three children:
- Tracey Davis: His biological daughter with May Britt, Tracey became an author and wrote about her relationship with her father.
- Mark and Jeff Davis: His adopted sons with May Britt.
Sammy Davis Jr House and Car Collection
House
Sammy Davis Jr. owned several properties during his lifetime, including a lavish home in Beverly Hills, California. Known for its luxurious amenities and modern design, the house was a reflection of his status as one of Hollywood’s elite.
Car Collection
Davis had a love for cars and owned an impressive collection, including:
- A Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud
- A Cadillac Eldorado
- A customized DeLorean
His car collection showcased his taste for luxury and innovation.
FAQs
What is Sammy Davis Jr.’s net worth?
Sammy Davis Jr.’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be around $5 million, adjusted for inflation.
What is Sammy Davis Jr.’s ethnicity?
Sammy Davis Jr. was of African-American and Afro-Cuban descent.
Who was Sammy Davis Jr.’s wife?
Sammy Davis Jr. was married three times: to Loray White, May Britt, and Altovise Gore. He was married to Altovise Gore at the time of his death.
How many children did Sammy Davis Jr. have?
Sammy Davis Jr. had three children: Tracey Davis (biological) and two adopted sons, Mark and Jeff Davis.
What were Sammy Davis Jr.’s most famous songs?
Some of his most famous songs include “The Candy Man”, “I’ve Gotta Be Me”, and “Mr. Bojangles”.
What is Sammy Davis Jr.’s height?
Sammy Davis Jr. stood at 5 feet 5 inches (165 cm).
Was Sammy Davis Jr. part of the Rat Pack?
Yes, Sammy Davis Jr. was a key member of the Rat Pack, along with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Joey Bishop, and Peter Lawford.
What awards did Sammy Davis Jr. win?
Sammy Davis Jr. won several awards, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and an Emmy nomination.
Where did Sammy Davis Jr. live?
Sammy Davis Jr. lived in several luxurious homes, including a notable residence in Beverly Hills, California.
What cars did Sammy Davis Jr. own?
His car collection included luxury vehicles like a Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, a Cadillac Eldorado, and a customized DeLorean.
Conclusion
Sammy Davis Jr. was a trailblazer who broke barriers and redefined entertainment. His immense talent, resilience, and charisma made him a legend, while his commitment to civil rights paved the way for future generations of performers. Whether on stage, on screen, or in his personal life, Davis lived with passion and left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire.