Deanna Durbin, the talented actress and singer, was born Edna Mae Durbin at Grace Hospital on December 4, 1921. Initially, there was no indication that she would become a major Hollywood star, eclipsing even the popularity of Shirley Temple. Renamed Deanna Durbin for her show business career, she rose to fame by the age of 21, becoming the highest-paid female star in the world.
Deanna's early success was marked by films such as Three Smart Girls (1936),Mad About Music (1938),and That Certain Age (1938). By the time she was 18, her annual income had reached an astonishing $250,000. Her voice was often described as "natural and beautiful," and her rendition of "One Fine Day" from Madame Butterfly became a timeless classic.
As a Hollywood star, Deanna's impact extended beyond the screen. She inspired Deanna Durbin dolls and dresses, and an engineering firm even named a "dream home" in her honor. Her first on-screen kiss was widely publicized across the continent.
However, what sets Deanna Durbin's story apart is her reluctance to bask in the adoration of her fans. Despite being at the pinnacle of her career as Hollywood's leading actress and singer, she chose to abandon the spotlight for a life of seclusion.
Deanna's first two marriages ended in failure, and before marrying her third husband, director Charles David, she stipulated that he promise her "the life of nobody." She has since lived in the French village of Neauphlé-le-Château, resisting every attempt by film companies to lure her back to the big screen.
For over 35 years, Deanna has refused to grant interviews or participate in film projects. Her husband has revealed that even the legendary actor Mario Lanzo pleaded with her to make a film with him, but she remained resolute in her decision to leave her Hollywood life behind.
