The Candy Man

Sammy Davis Jr. | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 16, 2025

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Who is Sammy Davis Jr.?

Sammy Davis Jr. was an iconic American entertainer who carved out a remarkable career as a singer, dancer, actor, and comedian, transcending the racial barriers of his time. Born on December 8, 1925, in Harlem, New York City, he was initially raised by his grandmother and later joined his father's dance troupe, becoming a star performer at a young age. Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, Davis gained prominence by joining the legendary Rat Pack alongside Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, solidifying his reputation in Las Vegas and Hollywood. His refusal to perform in clubs that practiced racial segregation demonstrated his commitment to civil rights and racial equality.

Throughout his career, Sammy Davis Jr. produced numerous hit records, including the beloved songs "I've Gotta Be Me" and "The Candy Man." His talent extended to Broadway, earning him a Tony nomination, and he made memorable appearances in films such as Ocean's 11 and Sweet Charity. Despite personal challenges, including a serious car accident that cost him an eye, Davis’s resilience shone through as he continued to deliver captivating performances into the late 1980s. His advocacy for social change, including participating in the Civil Rights Movement, and his groundbreaking interracial marriage to actress May Britt, further illustrate the impact of Davis's life and career on American culture.

Early Life and Education

Samuel George Davis Jr. was born on December 8, 1925, in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City. Raised initially by his paternal grandmother, Davis experienced significant change after his parents separated when he was just three years old. He moved in with his father, a performer in a dance troupe, which set the stage for his future in show business. As the family toured the country, young Davis was immersed in the entertainment industry, performing alongside his father and his adopted uncle in what became known as the Will Mastin Trio. His childhood was marked by an itinerant lifestyle that inhibited formal education yet fostered his immense talent.

Despite the lack of traditional schooling, Davis's formative years were filled with artistic growth. He developed skills in dancing, singing, and comedy, becoming a star performer in the trio. By the time he was a teenager, he had already made his film debut in the 1933 short "Rufus Jones for President." The demanding lifestyle of touring created an environment where Davis honed his craft, overcoming significant challenges, including the racial discrimination prevalent in the arts. His early experiences shaped not just his career but his resilience in facing adversity, factors that later played a critical role in his emergence as a celebrated entertainer in America.

Rising Star: Career Beginnings

After returning from military service in 1945, Sammy Davis Jr. resumed his entertainment career, stepping into the limelight as the star of the Will Mastin Trio. This family act, which included his father and his adopted uncle, showcased Davis's exceptional talents in comedy, music, and dance. His breakthrough moment came when the trio opened for Frank Sinatra at the Capitol Theatre in New York in 1947. This performance marked the start of a lifelong friendship and collaboration with Sinatra, propelling Davis into the upper echelons of show business.

In 1954, Davis's career accelerated further when he signed a recording contract with Decca Records. That same year, a tragic car accident left him with one eye, introducing him to personal challenges that would shape his character and artistry. After recuperating, he made a profound personal decision by converting to Judaism, identifying with the struggles of both the Jewish and African American communities. His first albums, “Starring Sammy Davis Jr.” and “Sammy Davis Jr. Sings Just for Lovers,” were released in 1955, earning him both critical acclaim and commercial success and allowing him to headline shows in Las Vegas and beyond.

The Rat Pack and Beyond

By 1960, Sammy Davis Jr. had firmly established himself as a prominent star while also gracefully fitting into the iconic Rat Pack alongside the likes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Peter Lawford, and Joey Bishop. This legendary group was synonymous with the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas nightlife, captivating audiences with their dynamic performances and charismatic presence. Davis not only contributed to the entertainment but also stood out as a gifted performer in his own right. He showcased his multiple talents in films like "Ocean's 11" (1960), where his charm and skill captivated audiences and solidified his status within the entertainment industry.

Despite the challenges he faced, including racial discrimination and personal hardships, Davis's artistry flourished during this period. He starred in memorable films like "Sergeants 3" (1962) and the classic "Robin and the 7 Hoods" (1964). As a true innovator, Davis became the first artist signed to Sinatra's Reprise Records label, releasing a steady stream of successful albums that showcased his exceptional vocal talents. His solo work garnered significant acclaim, including a Grammy nomination for the hit song “What Kind of Fool Am I?” and a Tony Award nomination for his performance in the 1964 musical "Golden Boy." This period marked the height of Davis's career, where his artistry and perseverance made him a beloved figure in American entertainment history, transcending the barriers of race and showcasing the culmination of his immense talent.

Social Activism and Personal Impact

Sammy Davis Jr. emerged as a significant figure in the Civil Rights Movement during the 1960s, harnessing his notoriety to combat racial segregation and advocate for equality. He was actively involved in landmark events such as the 1963 March on Washington, championing integration at nightclubs in Las Vegas and Miami Beach. Davis infamously refused to perform at venues that practiced racial discrimination, demonstrating his commitment to civil rights and paving the way for future entertainers of all backgrounds. His interracial marriage to Swedish actress May Britt defied societal norms of the time, further symbolizing his dedication to breaking down racial barriers.

Davis's struggle against racism was not just limited to his professional life; it permeated his personal experiences, informing his identity and artistic expression. His willingness to confront bigotry set a precedent for other artists, making him a pioneering figure for social justice in the entertainment industry. Despite facing significant backlash, including pressure from political figures like President John F. Kennedy to keep his marriage discreet, Davis consistently prioritized his beliefs over public opinion. His profound impact on social activism continues to inspire today, serving as a reminder of the power of using fame for positive change.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Sammy Davis Jr. had a complex personal life marked by both high-profile romances and significant commitments. He was briefly married to singer Loray White early in his career, a union that didn’t last long. In 1960, he married Swedish actress May Britt, making headlines due to the racial climate of the era, as interracial marriages were still taboo in many states. The couple had a daughter and adopted two sons during their marriage. However, their relationship faced immense scrutiny and challenges, ultimately leading to their divorce at the end of the 1960s.

Following his split from Britt, Davis married dancer Altovise Gore in 1970. Their partnership proved to be more enduring, as Altovise stood by him through the ups and downs of his career and personal struggles. Together, they adopted another son, solidifying their bond. Davis’s marriages reflected both his desire for companionship and the pressures of living in the public eye, where he often faced harsh criticism for his choices. Despite the turbulence, his relationships were often a source of profound personal meaning and growth.

Net Worth and Earning: Earnings Overview

Sammy Davis Jr. achieved significant financial success throughout his illustrious career in entertainment, marked by his work as a singer, actor, dancer, and comedian. Although the exact figure of his net worth at the peak of his career is difficult to ascertain, it was estimated to be around $5 million by the time of his death in 1990. This wealth stemmed from his dynamic performances in Las Vegas, starring roles in films, lucrative recording contracts, and his work in television. His impressive earnings generated a diverse portfolio that included multiple albums and television specials, further contributing to his financial legacy.

Davis's earnings were notably bolstered by his association with the Rat Pack, which formed a significant part of the Las Vegas entertainment scene in the 1960s. Beyond concerts and nightclub appearances, Davis was a savvy businessman, leveraging his popularity to secure deals that expanded his reach. Notably, he became the first artist signed to Frank Sinatra's Reprise Records, leading to a series of commercially successful albums. His dedication to performing at integrated venues not only amplified his fame but also strengthened his financial standing by allowing him to tap into broader, more diverse audiences, thus maximizing his earning potential.