The Lives of Sammy Davis Jr.’s Wives: A Journey Through Love, Loss, and Legacy
Introduction
Sammy Davis Jr., the legendary African American singer, actor, and comedian, was known for his charismatic personality and remarkable career. However, his personal life was equally fascinating, especially the series of marriages he had throughout his lifetime. This article delves into the lives of Sammy Davis Jr.’s wives, exploring the dynamics of their relationships, the challenges they faced, and the legacy they left behind.
Chapter 1: Sammy Davis Jr. and Wilma Jean Cay
The Beginning of a Love Story
Sammy Davis Jr. and Wilma Jean Cay were married on May 10, 1949, when Sammy was just 22 years old. Their marriage was a whirlwind romance that lasted for five years. Wilma Jean, a former chorus girl, was Sammy’s first wife and the mother of his daughter, Lisa. The couple’s relationship was tumultuous, marked by Sammy’s infidelities and Wilma Jean’s struggles with her husband’s fame.
The End of an Era
The marriage came to an end in 1954, and the couple divorced in 1955. Despite the challenges they faced, Wilma Jean remained close to Sammy throughout her life, often defending him against accusations of infidelity. She passed away in 2006, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and love.
Chapter 2: Sammy Davis Jr. and May Britt
A Love That Defied Prejudice
Sammy Davis Jr. and May Britt were married on July 19, 1960, in a ceremony that defied the racial prejudices of the time. May Britt was a Swedish actress, and their marriage was one of the first high-profile interracial marriages in Hollywood. The couple had two children together, Sametto and Lisa.
A Life of Love and Activism
Their marriage was a testament to their love and commitment to each other. Sammy and May Britt were active in the civil rights movement and used their platform to advocate for racial equality. They remained married until May’s death in 2012, leaving behind a legacy of love, activism, and a strong family bond.
Chapter 3: Sammy Davis Jr. and Altovise Gantt
A Love Rekindled
Sammy Davis Jr. and Altovise Gantt were married on June 18, 1970, after rekindling their relationship following a brief separation. Altovise was a former dancer and actress who had been a part of Sammy’s life for several years before they tied the knot. The couple had two children together, Sametto and Lisa.
The Challenges of a Second Marriage
Their marriage was not without its challenges. Sammy’s infidelities and Altovise’s struggles with his fame often put a strain on their relationship. However, they remained together until Sammy’s death in 1990, and Altovise continued to honor his memory and legacy.
Chapter 4: Sammy Davis Jr. and Candy Jones
A Brief but Intense Love
Sammy Davis Jr. and Candy Jones were married on December 28, 1983, in a ceremony that was as brief as it was intense. Candy was a model and actress, and their marriage was a high-profile event that garnered significant media attention. However, their marriage was short-lived, and they divorced on January 6, 1984.
The Legacy of Candy Jones
Candy Jones passed away in 1985, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and mystery. Her marriage to Sammy Davis Jr. was a brief but memorable chapter in his life, and her death at the age of 29 was a shock to many.
Conclusion
The lives of Sammy Davis Jr.’s wives offer a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of his personal life. From the tumultuous relationship with Wilma Jean Cay to the love story with May Britt, and the challenges of his second marriage with Altovise Gantt, each wife played a unique role in Sammy’s life. Despite the ups and downs, their marriages were a testament to the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
The legacy of Sammy Davis Jr.’s wives continues to inspire and educate, as their stories remind us of the importance of love, commitment, and the pursuit of equality. As we reflect on their lives, we are reminded of the impact that Sammy Davis Jr. had on the entertainment industry and the lives of those around him.
Future research could delve deeper into the psychological and social factors that influenced Sammy Davis Jr.’s relationships with his wives. Additionally, exploring the impact of their marriages on Sammy’s career and public image would provide valuable insights into the complexities of his life.
