Actress May Britt, Former Wife of Sammy Davis Jr., Passes Away at 91
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Swedish actress May Britt, known for her marriage to iconic entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. during the 1960s, has sadly died at the age of 91, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. Her son Mark Davis confirmed her passing on December 11 due to natural causes at the Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center.
May Britt began her career by signing with 20th Century Fox in 1957, landing roles in notable films such as ‘The Hunters’ (1958) alongside Robert Mitchum, and ‘The Young Lions’ (1958) opposite Marlon Brando. However, her breakthrough came in 1959 when she portrayed cabaret performer Lola-Lola in ‘The Blue Angel’.
Despite facing challenges during a time when interracial marriage was illegal in 31 U.S. states, May Britt and Sammy Davis Jr. got engaged in 1960. The couple endured backlash, with Davis being dis-invited from John F. Kennedy’s Inauguration due to their relationship. The pair also faced death threats, requiring them to employ 24-hour armed guards for protection.
May Britt and Sammy Davis Jr. welcomed their daughter, Tracey, in July 1961, and later adopted sons Mark and Jeff before divorcing in 1968. Reflecting on her parents’ relationship in a 2014 interview, Tracey shared that despite the challenges, her parents loved each other deeply, with her mother being understanding of her father’s demanding life as an entertainer.
After her marriage to Davis, May Britt faced the end of her acting contract as 20th Century Fox chose not to renew it following the engagement news. However, she continued to lead a fulfilling life and later married Lennart Ringquist, who passed away in 2017. May Britt’s impact on the entertainment industry and her personal journey with love and loss leave a lasting legacy.
May Britt’s story is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by interracial couples in the past, highlighting the resilience and love that transcends societal barriers. Her contributions to film and her personal strength in navigating difficult circumstances will be remembered by fans and the industry alike.
The legacy of May Britt and Sammy Davis Jr. serves as a testament to the power of love and perseverance in the face of adversity. Their story inspires audiences to embrace diversity and celebrate love in all its forms, transcending boundaries and creating a more inclusive world for future generations.
As we mourn the loss of May Britt, we celebrate her life and the impact she had on the entertainment industry and beyond. Her talent, resilience, and love will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences for years to come. May she rest in peace, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished and remembered.