Bette Davis’ Children: An Overview of the Late Actress’ Daughters and Son
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/bette-davis-kids-main-split-072325-a0cab8911d7c424b8e6c9af96ae0940b.jpg)
Bette Davis, the iconic Oscar-winning actress, was not only known for her legendary career in Hollywood but also for being a devoted mother to three children. Davis had three kids: daughters Barbara “B.D.” Hyman and Margot Merrill, and son Michael Merrill. Let’s delve into the lives of Bette Davis’ children and their unique journeys.
Barbara “B.D.” Hyman was the first child of Bette Davis, born on May 1, 1947, to Davis and her husband at the time, William Grant Sherry. Following her parents’ divorce in 1950, B.D. was adopted by Davis’ second husband, Gary Merrill. B.D. appeared in some of her mother’s films, including a role as Davis’ daughter in “Payment on Demand” in 1951 and a cameo in “What Ever Happened To Baby Jane?” in 1962. B.D. later married Jeremy Hyman when she was just 16, a decision that strained her relationship with her mother.
In 1985, B.D. released a memoir titled “My Mother’s Keeper,” where she portrayed Davis in an unflattering light, accusing her of being a heavy drinker and emotionally manipulative. Despite B.D.’s intentions to bridge the gap between them, the relationship remained strained. Davis, deeply hurt by the book, did not include B.D. in her will when she passed away in 1989. Following this, B.D. shifted her focus to religious texts and became a minister in Charlottesville, Va.
Margot Merrill, Bette Davis’ adopted daughter born in 1951, faced challenges early on as she was diagnosed with brain damage at the age of 3. Despite this, Davis ensured Margot was included in family activities and trips. Margot lived a life filled with perseverance and joy, participating in the Special Olympics and embodying a love for people that was reciprocated by all who knew her. After battling an illness, Margot passed away in May 2022, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and happiness.
Michael Merrill, another of Bette Davis’ adopted children born in 1951, pursued a career in law after graduating from Boston University. Following the release of B.D.’s controversial memoir, Michael distanced himself from his sister, supporting his mother through the challenging times. When Bette Davis passed away, Michael inherited a significant portion of her estate and went on to co-found The Bette Davis Foundation, aimed at providing financial assistance to aspiring acting students. The foundation also honoured distinguished individuals with the Bette Davis Lifetime Achievement Award.
Despite the complexities and challenges within the family dynamic, each of Bette Davis’ children carved out their own paths in life. Barbara “B.D.” Hyman followed a spiritual calling, Margot Merrill embraced a life of joy and perseverance, and Michael Merrill continued his mother’s legacy through philanthropy and legal endeavours. The intertwining tales of Bette Davis’ children shed light on the intricate relationships within a family marked by fame and personal struggles.
In conclusion, the tales of Bette Davis’ children encapsulate a narrative of love, conflict, resilience, and individual journeys shaped by their iconic mother’s legacy. Each child navigated their unique paths, leaving behind a legacy that intertwines with the legendary story of their famous parent.