Martha Raye

Biography

Martha Raye, born Margy Reed on August 27, 1916, was a celebrated American comic actress and singer, renowned for her memorable performances in film, television, and on Broadway. Earning the affectionate nickname "The Big Mouth" due to her distinctively large mouth, Raye's career spanned several decades, showcasing her talent and versatility.

Her journey began in the early 1930s as a band vocalist for notable orchestras led by Paul Ash and Boris Morros. She made her cinematic debut in 1934 with the short film *A Nite in the Nite Club*, and by 1936, she was signed by Paramount Pictures, landing her first major role in *Rhythm on the Range* alongside Bing Crosby. Raye became a staple in the comedy scene, appearing in various films with legendary figures such as W.C. Fields, Bob Hope, and Charlie Chaplin, and featured in 39 episodes of Al Jolson's *The Lifebuoy Program*.

Her commitment to supporting the U.S. troops during World War II through the USO earned her the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award at the 1969 Academy Awards. Raye also enjoyed a successful television career, appearing on shows like *Alice*, *Murder, She Wrote*, and *The Love Boat*. Her final film role was in *The Concorde ... Airport '79*. In the 1980s, she became a familiar face in commercials for Polident denture cleaner, humorously embracing her nickname. Raye’s legacy as a trailblazer in entertainment remains influential today. She passed away on October 19, 1994.