Ethel Merman

Ethel Merman, the larger-than-life soprano who blazed a trail through the Broadway world like a sequined comet. With a voice that could shatter glass and a personality to match, Merman redefined what it meant to be a leading lady in the golden age of musical theatre.

Born in humble beginnings in Astoria, Queens, Merman's rise to fame was nothing short of meteoric. From her breakout performance in "Girl Crazy" to her iconic roles in "Annie Get Your Gun" and "Gypsy," she captivated audiences with her powerhouse vocals and sassy charisma.

But Merman was more than just a brassy dame belting out show tunes. She was a trailblazer, a feminist icon, and a force of nature. Her signature style and larger-than-life persona paved the way for future divas to embrace their own unique quirks and talents.

Whether she was belting out a showstopper on stage or cracking jokes with her fellow cast members, Merman always had that special sparkle that set her apart from the rest. She was a true original, a legend in her own right, and a reminder that sometimes, being a little bit extra is exactly what the world needs.

So here's to Ethel Merman, the queen of Broadway, the original diva, and a woman who proved that talent, wit, and a killer set of pipes can take you anywhere you want to go.