Bette Midler is an iconic American actress, singer, comedian, and author, celebrated for her multifaceted talent and vibrant personality. Born Bette Davis Midler on December 1, 1945, in Honolulu, Hawaii, she captured the hearts of audiences around the world with her powerful voice and magnetic performances. Over her illustrious six-decade career, Midler has garnered numerous accolades, including four Golden Globe Awards, three Grammy Awards, three Primetime Emmy Awards, two Tony Awards, and a Kennedy Center Honor, in addition to nominations for two Academy Awards and a British Academy Film Award.
Midler's journey into the entertainment industry began in the 1960s with her involvement in various off-off-Broadway plays, which paved the way for her appearances in productions like Fiddler on the Roof and Salvation. She gained widespread recognition in 1970 after performing at the Continental Baths, a gay bathhouse in New York City, where her unique style and humor attracted a devoted following. This early exposure helped her launch a successful singing career, leading to the release of 14 studio albums that have collectively sold over 30 million copies worldwide. Some of her most beloved songs include "The Rose," "Wind Beneath My Wings," "Do You Want to Dance?", and "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," with the latter two tracks showcasing her pop and retro influences. Midler's rendition of "Wind Beneath My Wings" earned her a Grammy Award for Record of the Year.
Midler made her film debut in the 1979 musical drama The Rose, a role that not only solidified her status as a leading lady but also won her the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress in a Motion Picture Comedy or Musical. The film, inspired by the life of legendary singer Janis Joplin, led to critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. She continued to build her filmography with notable performances in beloved classics such as Down and Out in Beverly Hills, Ruthless People, Beaches, and The First Wives Club. Her role in For the Boys also earned her a second Academy Award nomination, further establishing her as a powerhouse in Hollywood.
In addition to her film career, Midler has made significant contributions to Broadway. She held a residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas with the show Bette Midler: The Showgirl Must Go On from 2008 to 2010, showcasing her legendary stage presence. In 2017, she returned to Broadway in a revival of Hello, Dolly!, where her performance received critical acclaim and won her the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical, marking a triumphant return to the stage.
Midler's contributions to entertainment extend beyond acting and singing; she is also known for her philanthropic efforts and advocacy, particularly in support of various charitable causes. Married to Martin von Haselberg since December 16, 1984, Midler continues to charm audiences with her talent and charisma. Today, she remains an enduring figure in the entertainment industry, demonstrating an incredible range that spans music, film, and theater. With her legacy firmly established, Bette Midler continues to inspire and entertain, solidifying her place as a beloved icon of American culture.