When it comes to classic Hollywood and the golden age of television, few names shine brighter than Nanette Fabray (often misspelled as Nannette Fabre). A true entertainer, actress, singer, and dancer, Fabray’s career spanned stage, screen, and television for more than seven decades. Her charm, wit, and immense talent made her one of the most beloved performers of her time.
Let’s dive deep into the remarkable life and achievements of Nanette Fabray, the woman who captured America’s heart.
1. Who Was Nanette Fabray?
Nanette Fabray, born Ruby Bernadette Nanette Fabares on October 27, 1920, in San Diego, California, was an American actress, singer, and dancer known for her versatility and radiant personality.
She began performing at an early age, encouraged by her mother, who recognized her natural gift for entertainment. As a child, Fabray trained in tap dancing and acting, appearing in local performances before eventually making her way to Broadway.
While many fans today mistakenly search for “Nannette Fabre,” the correct spelling of her name is Nanette Fabray—a name synonymous with grace, humor, and perseverance in show business.
2. Early Career and Rise to Stardom
Nanette’s career began in earnest on Broadway, where her combination of acting, dancing, and comedic timing quickly caught the attention of critics.
Her breakthrough came with the musical “High Button Shoes” (1947), followed by “Love Life” (1948), which earned her recognition as one of Broadway’s top talents. But it was her role in “Arms and the Girl” (1950) and “Mr. President” (1962) that solidified her status as a true stage star.
In 1949, Fabray won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her performance in “Love Life”, a major milestone that opened doors to television and film.
Her warm personality and expressive face made her perfect for television’s early comedy and variety shows—where audiences across America instantly fell in love with her.
3. Television Fame and Awards
The 1950s and 1960s marked the height of Nanette Fabray’s television success. She became a household name thanks to her appearances on shows such as:
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“Caesar’s Hour” – Her most famous TV role alongside Sid Caesar, which earned her three Emmy Awards.
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“The Carol Burnett Show” – Where she appeared as a guest star, admired for her comedic brilliance and quick wit.
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“One Day at a Time” – Where she played Grandma Katherine Romano, charming a whole new generation of viewers.
Her performances were known for their natural humor and emotional authenticity. She could make audiences laugh one minute and cry the next — a rare gift even among the greats of her era.
4. Overcoming Hearing Loss: Her Personal Struggles and Advocacy
One of the most inspiring parts of Nanette Fabray’s story was her battle with hearing loss.
In her 20s, Fabray began to experience significant hearing problems, which made her career in performance extremely challenging. For years, she struggled to understand dialogue and cues during live performances but refused to give up.
Eventually, she sought treatment and became one of the first public figures to speak openly about hearing impairment. Her courage inspired millions and helped reduce the stigma around hearing loss.
Fabray went on to work with organizations such as the National Council on the Hearing Impaired and helped push for better accessibility in television through captioning and hearing aid awareness.
Her advocacy led to her receiving the President’s Distinguished Service Award and the Helen Keller Achievement Award for her contributions to the hearing-impaired community.
5. Later Years and Lasting Legacy
Even as she grew older, Nanette Fabray continued to perform, appear at public events, and share her story. She took on guest roles in shows like “Coach,” “The Golden Palace,” and “The Love Boat.”
Her career, which spanned more than 70 years, showcased her as a multi-talented performer who seamlessly moved from stage to film to television.
Nanette passed away on February 22, 2018, at the age of 97, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of perseverance, humor, and heart.
To this day, fans remember her not only for her Tony and Emmy Awards, but also for her kindness, advocacy, and trailblazing contributions to entertainment.
6. Interesting Facts About Nanette Fabray
Here are a few fascinating tidbits about the beloved star:
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She was a distant cousin of actress Shelley Fabares, known for her role on The Donna Reed Show and Coach.
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She started performing in silent film shorts as a child in the 1920s.
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Fabray was fluent in American Sign Language (ASL), which she used in advocacy work.
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She once performed a tap dance routine on live TV despite partial hearing loss — a moment that became legendary.
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She earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for her contributions to television.
These facts reflect the passion and determination that defined Fabray’s long, meaningful life.
Conclusion: Remembering Nanette Fabray
Nanette Fabray (often misspelled as Nannette Fabre) remains a shining example of resilience, creativity, and talent. From her Broadway triumphs to her television stardom, she captivated audiences around the world.
Beyond entertainment, her courage in sharing her hearing loss journey helped countless others face their struggles with dignity and hope.
Today, her work continues to inspire actors, performers, and advocates everywhere. Nanette Fabray wasn’t just a performer—she was a pioneer, proving that true talent transcends obstacles and time.
