Diahann Carroll was born Carol Diahann Johnson on July 17, 1935, in the Bronx, New York. She grew up in Harlem, surrounded by the vibrant culture of the neighborhood. From a young age, Diahann showed a natural talent for singing and performing. Her parents recognized her gift and encouraged her to pursue it.
At the age of 10, Diahann won a scholarship to study at the High School of Music and Art. This opportunity allowed her to develop her skills and set the stage for her future career. During her teenage years, she began modeling for Ebony magazine, which gave her early exposure to the entertainment industry.
Diahann’s professional career started when she was just 15 years old. She appeared on the TV show “Chance of a Lifetime” in 1954. Her performance caught the attention of many in the industry, and it wasn’t long before she was offered more opportunities.
In 1954, Diahann made her Broadway debut in the musical “House of Flowers.” Her powerful voice and captivating stage presence quickly made her a standout performer. This role opened doors for her in both theater and film..
Read more
Movies and TV Shows
Diahann Carroll’s film career began in 1954 with a role in the movie “Carmen Jones.” Although her part was small, it marked the beginning of her work in cinema. She went on to appear in several notable films throughout her career.
Some of Diahann’s most memorable movie roles include:
1. “Porgy and Bess” (1959): She played Clara in this classic musical film.
2. “Paris Blues” (1961): Diahann starred alongside Paul Newman and Sidney Poitier.
3. “Claudine” (1974): This role earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
4. “Eve’s Bayou” (1997): She played the role of Aunt Mozelle in this critically acclaimed drama.
While Diahann found success in film, it was television that truly made her a household name. In 1968, she broke new ground with the sitcom “Julia.” This show was revolutionary because it was the first American TV series to star a Black woman in a non-stereotypical role. Diahann played Julia Baker, a widowed nurse raising her young son. The show ran for three seasons and earned her a Golden Globe Award.
After “Julia,” Diahann continued to make her mark on television. She had a recurring role on the popular primetime soap opera “Dynasty” from 1984 to 1987. Her character, Dominique Deveraux, became a fan favorite and showcased Diahann’s ability to play glamorous, powerful women.
In the 1990s, Diahann appeared in several TV movies and had guest roles on shows like “A Different World” and “The Sweetest Gift.” She also had a recurring role on “Grey’s Anatomy” from 2006 to 2007, playing Jane Burke, the mother of Dr. Preston Burke.
Throughout her career, Diahann continued to perform on stage as well. She starred in various Broadway productions, including “No Strings” in 1962, for which she won a Tony Award. This made her the first Black woman to win a Tony for Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical.
Personal Life
Diahann Carroll’s personal life was as eventful as her professional one. She was married four times throughout her life. Her first marriage was to Monte Kay, a talent manager, in 1956. They had a daughter, Suzanne, before divorcing in 1963.
In 1973, Diahann married Fred Glusman, but this union was short-lived and ended in divorce the same year. Her third marriage was to Robert DeLeon in 1975. Tragically, DeLeon died in a car accident in 1977.
Diahann’s fourth and final marriage was to singer Vic Damone in 1987. The couple divorced in 1996 but reportedly remained friends until Damone’s death in 2018.
One of the most publicized aspects of Diahann’s personal life was her relationship with Sidney Poitier. They had a nine-year affair in the 1960s, which Diahann later discussed in her 2008 autobiography, “The Legs Are the Last to Go.”
Throughout her life, Diahann was known for her elegance and style. She was often featured in fashion magazines and was considered a style icon. Her graceful demeanor and sophisticated fashion sense became part of her public persona.
Diahann was also an activist and used her platform to advocate for civil rights and cancer awareness. She was a breast cancer survivor and spoke openly about her experience to help others.
A Star’s Farewell
Diahann Carroll passed away on October 4, 2019, at her home in Los Angeles. She was 84 years old. The cause of her death was reported as cancer. Her daughter, Suzanne Kay, was by her side when she died.
News of Diahann’s passing was met with an outpouring of tributes from fans, colleagues, and fellow entertainers. Many praised her groundbreaking work and the doors she opened for other Black performers in the entertainment industry.
Diahann’s funeral was held on October 13, 2019, at the Helen Hills Hills Chapel in Northampton, Massachusetts. It was a private ceremony attended by family and close friends. She was buried in the nearby Wildwood Cemetery.
Throughout her career, Diahann Carroll received numerous awards and honors. In addition to her Tony Award and Golden Globe, she was nominated for an Emmy Award and an Academy Award. In 2011, she was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, recognizing her significant contributions to the medium.
Diahann was also known for her work off-screen. She was a dedicated activist for various causes, including civil rights and breast cancer awareness. Her advocacy work complemented her artistic career, showing her commitment to using her fame for positive change.
In her later years, Diahann became an author. Her 2008 autobiography, “The Legs Are the Last to Go: Aging, Acting, Marrying, and Other Things I Learned the Hard Way,” offered readers an intimate look at her life and career. The book was praised for its honesty and insight into the challenges of aging in Hollywood.
