Biography
Dona Drake (born Eunice Westmoreland on November 15, 1914) was an African-American singer, dancer, and film actress active in the 1930s and 1940s. Despite her heritage, she often identified as Mexican or of Latin descent to navigate Hollywood’s racial landscape. Over her career, she was frequently cast in ethnic roles, portraying Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and European characters.
She performed under various stage names, including Una Novella, Rita Novella, and Rita Rio. In the early 1940s, she led an all-girl orchestra and gained recognition for her musical and dance performances. She appeared in films such as Kansas City Confidential (1952), Louisiana Purchase (1941), and Road to Morocco (1942). Despite her talents, she remained a supporting actress rather than a leading star.
Dona Drake passed away on June 20, 1989, due to pneumonia and respiratory failure. Her ashes were scattered at sea near Point Fermin in California.
Filmography
all 34
Movies 32
self 4
TV Shows 2
Salsa (1976)
Valentino (1951)
The Girl from Jones Beach (1949)
The Doolins of Oklahoma (1949)
So This Is New York (1948)
Another Part of the Forest (1948)
Dangerous Millions (1946)
Without Reservations (1946)
Hollywood Victory Caravan (1945)
Hot Rhythm (1944)
Road to Morocco (1942)
Star Spangled Rhythm (1942)
Louisiana Purchase (1941)
I Look at You (1941)
Pan-Americonga (1941)
Fresh as a Freshman (1941)
Feed the Kitty (1941)
Sweet Shoe (1938)
Strike Me Pink (1936)
Gallery
Information
Known ForActing
GenderFemale
Birthday1914-11-15
Deathday1989-06-20 (74 years old)
Birth PlaceMiami, United States
RelationshipsWilliam Travilla (1944 - 1989)
CitizenshipsUnited States
Also Known AsEunice Westmoreland, Una Novella, Rita Novella, Rita Rio
This article uses material from Wikipedia.
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