Quotes & anectdotes from
the wise,
the foolish,
the courageous &
the drunk

Ethel Merman Theater Actor

  • Gender: Female
  • Citizenship: United States
  • Born: Jan 16, 1908
  • Died: Feb 15, 1984

Ethel Merman was an American actress and singer. Known primarily for her belting voice and roles in musical theatre, she has been called "the undisputed First Lady of the musical comedy stage." Among the many standards introduced by Merman in Broadway musicals are "I Got Rhythm", "Everything's Coming Up Roses", "Some People", "Rose's Turn", "I Get a Kick Out of You", "It's De-Lovely", "Friendship", "You're the Top", "Anything Goes", and "There's No Business Like Show Business", which later became her theme song.

My beloved Mom and Pop always rated tops with each other, and that's the way it will always be.

Everything's coming up roses - for me.

Eisenhower was my war hero and the President I admire and respect most.

Christmas carols always brought tears to my eyes. I also cry at weddings. I should have cried at a couple of my own.

I wouldn't change one thing about my professional life, and I make it a point not to dwell on my mistakes.

At one time I smoked, but in 1959 I couldn't think of anything else to give up for Lent so I stopped - and I haven't had a cigarette since.

Mom and Pop were proud of my popularity, but from their point of view, show business was no way to make a living.

I wouldn't trust any man as far as you can throw a piano.

Mom claimed that I could carry a tune at 2 or 3 years of age. Maybe she was a little prejudiced.