Born: June 7, 1917 – Died: December 25, 1995
Dean Martin's journey from the humble beginnings in Steubenville, Ohio, to Hollywood stardom is a testament to his enduring talent and charm. Born as Dino Paul Crocetti to Gaetano Alfonso "Guy" Crocetti, an Italian immigrant barber, and Angela (Barra) Crocetti, a native Ohioan, Martin's early years were steeped in Italian culture. Rising from jobs that ranged from boxing to dealing at casinos, Martin's tenacity led him to monumental success in the entertainment world, shaping him into a celebrated icon.
Early Life and Career
Martin's upbringing was full of the rich Italian language, not learning English until he was five. His education and early work ethic were sculpted in Ohio, with no immediate hints of the star he would become. Martin's break into the entertainment industry was serendipitous; his first significant role came in 1946, and it wasn't long before he captured the hearts of America. It was his partnership with Jerry Lewis that first saw him rise to fame, marking the start of a glittering career.
This partnership led to radio shows, television, and movies, securing their status as a formidable duo in the industry. However, it was his role in "Rio Bravo" (1959) that solidified his standing as a solo sensation. Martin's accolades over the years included multiple Golden Globe nominations and a win for his television show in 1965.
Personal aspects of Martin's life often mirrored his on-screen persona. His marriage, children, and outside interests, alongside the occasional controversy, kept him in the public eye. Despite any personal setbacks, including the tragic loss of his son, Martin remained a beloved public figure until his death.
Dean Martin's impact on Hollywood is undeniable. With his smooth voice, comedic timing, and easygoing demeanor, he became a symbol of cool sophistication. His contributions to the Rat Pack, his dynamic partnership with Lewis, and his solo achievements make him a standout figure in the annals of both cinema and music history.
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Half Nelson (TV Series) | Dean Martin |
| 1985 | Half Nelson (TV Movie) | Mr. Martin |
| 1984 | Cannonball Run II | Jamie Blake |
| 1983 | Dean Martin: Since I Met You Baby (Music Video) | Dean Martin |
| 1981 | The Cannonball Run | Jamie Blake |
| 1979 | Vega$ (TV Series) | Dean Martin |
| 1978 | Charlie's Angels (TV Series) | Frank Howell |
| 1975 | Mr. Ricco | Joe Ricco |
| 1973 | Showdown | Billy Massey |
| 1971 | Something Big | Joe Baker |
| 1970 | Swing Out, Sweet Land (TV Movie) | Eli Whitney |
| 1970 | Airport | Vernon Demerest |
| 1968 | The Wrecking Crew | Matt Helm |
| 1968 | 5 Card Stud | Van Morgan |
| 1968 | Bandolero! | Dee Bishop |
| 1968 | How to Save a Marriage and Ruin Your Life | David Sloane |
| 1967 | The Ambushers | Matt Helm |
| 1967 | Rough Night in Jericho | Alex Flood |
| 1966 | Murderers' Row | Matt Helm |
| 1966 | Texas Across the River | Sam Hollis |
| 1966 | Birds Do It | Golfer (uncredited) |
| 1966 | The Silencers | Matt Helm |
| 1966 | The Lucy Show (TV Series) | Dean Martin |
| 1965 | Marriage on the Rocks | Ernie Brewer |
| 1965 | The Sons of Katie Elder | Tom Elder |
| 1964 | Kiss Me, Stupid | Dino |
| 1964 | Rawhide (TV Series) | Gurd Canliss |
| 1964 | Robin and the 7 Hoods | John |
| 1964 | What a Way to Go! | Leonard 'Lennie' Crawley |
| 1963 | Who's Been Sleeping in My Bed? | Jason Steel |
| 1963 | 4 for Texas | Joe Jarrett |
| 1963 | Toys in the Attic | Julian Berniers | husband |
| 1963 | Come Blow Your Horn | The Bum (uncredited) |
| 1962 | Something's Got to Give (Short) | Nick Arden |
| 1962 | Who's Got the Action? | Steve Flood |
| 1962 | The Road to Hong Kong | The 'Grape' on Plutomium (uncredited) |
| 1962 | Sergeants 3 | Sgt. Chip Deal |
| 1961 | Ada | Bo Gillis |
| 1961 | All in a Night's Work | Tony Ryder |
| 1960 | Pepe | Dean Martin |
| 1960 | Ocean's Eleven | Sam Harmon |
| 1960 | Bells Are Ringing | Jeffrey Moss |
| 1960 | Who Was That Lady? | Michael Haney |
| 1959 | Career | Maurice 'Maury' Novak |
| 1959 | Rio Bravo | Dude ('Borrachón') |
| 1958 | Some Came Running | Bama Dillert |
| 1958 | The Phil Silvers Show (TV Series) | Unnamed Las Vegas Gambler (uncredited) |
| 1958 | The Young Lions | Michael Whiteacre |
| 1958 | The Danny Thomas Show (TV Series) | Dean Martin |
| 1957 | Ten Thousand Bedrooms | Ray Hunter |
| 1956 | Hollywood or Bust | Steve Wiley |
| 1956 | Pardners | Slim Moseley Jr. | Slim Moseley Sr. |
| 1955 | Artists and Models | Richard 'Rick' Todd |
| 1955 | You're Never Too Young | Bob Miles |
| 1954 | 3 Ring Circus | Peter 'Pete' Nelson |
| 1954 | Living It Up | Dr. Steve Harris |
| 1953 | Money from Home | Herman 'Honey Talk' Nelson |
| 1953 | The Caddy | Joe Anthony |
| 1953 | Scared Stiff | Larry Todd |
| 1952 | Road to Bali | Man in Lala's Dream (uncredited) |
| 1952 | Jumping Jacks | Cpl. Chick Allen |
| 1952 | Sailor Beware | Al Crowthers |
| 1951 | The Stooge | Bill Miller |
| 1951 | That's My Boy | Bill Baker |
| 1950 | At War with the Army | Sgt. Vic Puccinelli |
| 1950 | My Friend Irma Goes West | Steve Laird |
| 1949 | My Friend Irma | Steve |
| 1946 | Film Vodvil: Art Mooney and Orchestra (Short) | Singer with Art Mooney Band |