Bette Midler is an American singer, actress, comedian, and producer known for her distinctive voice, flamboyant stage presence, and versatile talent across music, film, and theater. Here’s a detailed biography:
- Full Name: Bette Davis Midler
- Date of Birth: December 1, 1945
- Place of Birth: Honolulu, Hawaii, U.S.
Early Life:
Bette Midler was born in Honolulu to a Jewish family. Her mother, Ruth, was a seamstress and housewife, and her father, Fred Midler, worked as a painter at a Navy base in Hawaii. She was named after actress Bette Davis. Midler attended Radford High School in Honolulu and later studied drama at the University of Hawaii, although she left before graduating to pursue a career in entertainment.
Career Highlights:
Music:
Midler launched her music career in the early 1970s. Her debut album, The Divine Miss M (1972), was a major success, earning her a Grammy Award for Best New Artist. She is known for hit songs such as:
- “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy”
- “The Rose”
- “Wind Beneath My Wings”
- “From a Distance”
Over her career, Midler has released numerous albums spanning pop, traditional, and adult contemporary genres.
Film:
Midler transitioned into film in the late 1970s and became a major star in the 1980s and 1990s. Notable films include:
- The Rose (1979) – for which she received an Academy Award nomination.
- Beaches (1988) – featuring her iconic ballads.
- Hocus Pocus (1993) – a cult classic where she played the witch Winifred Sanderson.
- The First Wives Club (1996)
- Parental Guidance (2012)
Stage:
Bette Midler has had a strong presence in theater as well. She began performing in New York’s bathhouses in the 1970s and later starred on Broadway. Her 2017 performance in the revival of Hello, Dolly! won her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical.
Awards and Honors:
Bette Midler has received numerous accolades, including:
- Grammy Awards (multiple wins)
- Emmy Awards
- Tony Award
- Golden Globe Awards
- Kennedy Center Honor (2021)
She has also been honored for her work in environmental and urban beautification through her nonprofit, the New York Restoration Project.
Personal Life:
Midler has been married to artist Martin von Haselberg since 1984. They have one daughter, Sophie von Haselberg, who is also an actress.
Legacy:
Bette Midler is celebrated for her dynamic presence across entertainment media. Often called “The Divine Miss M,” she has influenced generations of performers with her mix of humor, emotional depth, and flamboyant style.
