Carol Channing

Carol Elaine Channing (January 31, 1921 – January 15, 2019) was a celebrated American actress, singer, dancer, and comedian renowned for her vibrant performances on Broadway and in film. With her distinct voice and animated presence, Channing captivated audiences, showcasing her talents in a variety of roles. She honed her craft at the Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre in New York City, where her passion for acting blossomed.

Channing's Broadway career was marked by iconic performances, most notably in the 1949 production of *Gentlemen Prefer Blondes* and the 1964 classic *Hello, Dolly!*, for which she won the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. She reprised her role as Dolly numerous times, including a memorable return in 1995. Her first Tony nomination came in 1956 for *The Vamp*, followed by nominations for *Show Girl* in 1961 and *Lorelei* in 1974.

In film, Channing earned a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination for her role as Muzzy in the 1967 hit *Thoroughly Modern Millie*. Her filmography also includes titles like *The First Traveling Saleslady* (1956) and *Skidoo* (1968). On television, she became a familiar face, appearing on variety shows and delivering a memorable performance as The White Queen in the 1985 adaptation of *Alice in Wonderland*. A member of the American Theatre Hall of Fame since 1981, Channing received a Lifetime Achievement Tony Award in 1995. Even in her 90s, she remained active, performing and sharing her stories in a cabaret style. Her autobiography, *Just Lucky I Guess*, was published in 2002, followed by the documentary *Larger Than Life* in 2012, celebrating her remarkable career.