Stella Stevens was a talented actress, model, and director who emerged as a Hollywood starlet in the late 1950s and early 1960s. With her striking beauty and remarkable acting abilities, she quickly rose to fame and became one of the industry’s most sought-after actresses. This post will explore the early years of Stella Stevens’ career, her rise to fame, and the roles that solidified her status as a Hollywood siren.
Early Life and Beginnings
Born Estelle Caro Eggleston on October 1, 1938, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, Stella Stevens grew up in Memphis, Tennessee. She attended Memphis State College (now the University of Memphis), where she studied drama and pursued her passion for acting. During this time, Stevens’ undeniable beauty and talent began to turn heads.
Her first break in the entertainment industry came in 1959 when she was selected as Playboy’s Playmate of the Month for January. This exposure propelled her into the world of modeling, and soon after, she made her acting debut in the 1959 film “Say One for Me,” starring Bing Crosby and Debbie Reynolds.
The Rise to Fame
Stella Stevens’ early acting roles showcased her talent and screen presence, quickly garnering the attention of Hollywood producers. She landed a contract with 20th Century Fox, which led to her appearance in the 1960 film “The Blue Angel,” a remake of the 1930 classic. While the film received mixed reviews, Stevens’ performance as Lola-Lola, the sultry nightclub singer, was praised for her captivating and sensual portrayal.
Her stunning beauty and undeniable talent soon led to roles in other films, such as “The Courtship of Eddie’s Father” (1963) and “The Nutty Professor” (1963). In the latter, a comedic adaptation of the classic Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde story, Stevens starred opposite comedy legend, Jerry Lewis. Her performance as Stella Purdy, the love interest of Lewis’ characters, showcased her ability to excel in dramatic and comedic roles.
In 1965, Stella Stevens appeared in the World War II drama “The Secret of My Success” and “The Silencers,” the first film in the popular Matt Helm series starring Dean Martin. These roles further solidified her status as a leading lady in Hollywood and demonstrated her versatility as an actress.
Embracing the Hollywood Siren Image
Stella Stevens’ stunning looks and captivating on-screen presence led to her being regarded as a Hollywood siren. Her glamorous image and sensuous roles in films made her a symbol of beauty and desire, earning her a place among other sex symbols of the era like Marilyn Monroe, Jayne Mansfield, and Brigitte Bardot.
However, Stevens was more than just a pretty face. Her acting talent was evident in her diverse filmography, which spanned multiple genres, from comedy and drama to action and suspense. This range allowed her to break free from the stereotype often associated with Hollywood sirens and prove her worth as a versatile and talented actress.
Television Success and Continued Film Work
In addition to her film career, Stella Stevens also found success on television. She appeared in numerous popular TV series, such as “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” “Bonanza,” “The Love Boat,” and “Murder, She Wrote.” Her ability to transition seamlessly between film and television roles further showcased her talents and adaptability as an actress.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Stevens continued to work in film, appearing in movies such as “The Ballad of Cable Hogue” (1970), “Cleopatra Jones and the Casino of Gold” (1975), and “The Manitou” (1978). Her choice of roles during this time showcased her willingness to take on unconventional projects, further highlighting her versatility as an actress.
Legacy and Passing
Not content with simply being in front of the camera, Stella Stevens expanded her horizons in the entertainment industry by stepping behind the camera. In 1973, she made her directorial debut with the film “The American Heroine,” which she also co-wrote and produced. This endeavor further demonstrated her talent and ambition within the industry, proving that she was more than just a Hollywood siren.
Throughout her career, Stevens received recognition for her work, including a Golden Globe nomination for New Star of the Year – Actress for her role in “The Blue Angel” (1960). Additionally, in 2005, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Los Angeles Italian Film Festival for her contributions to the entertainment industry.
Stella Stevens, passed away on February 17, 2023, at the age of 84. She had had Alzheimer’s disease for several years and died at her home in Beverly Hills, surrounded by her family and friends.
