Dona Drake
Acting
Biography
Dona Drake (born Eunice Westmoreland on November 15, 1914) was an African-American singer, dancer, and film actress active in the 1930s and 1940s. Despite her heritage, she often identified as Mexican or of Latin descent to navigate Hollywood’s racial landscape. Over her career, she was frequently cast in ethnic roles, portraying Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and European characters. She performed under various stage names, including Una Novella, Rita Novella, and Rita Rio. In the early 1940s, she led an all-girl orchestra and gained recognition for her musical and dance performances. She appeared in films such as Kansas City Confidential (1952), Louisiana Purchase (1941), and Road to Morocco (1942). Despite her talents, she remained a supporting actress rather than a leading star. Dona Drake passed away on June 20, 1989, due to pneumonia and respiratory failure. Her ashes were scattered at sea near Point Fermin in California.
Born: November 15, 1914
Place of Birth: Miami, Florida, USA
Known For
Filmography
as Mirva
as Narita
as Dolores
as Zelda
as Teresa
as Maria Torres
as Pepita
as Jenny
as Connie Martin
as Cattle Annie
as Kate Goff
as Laurette Sincee
as Elena Valdez
as Dolores Ortega
as Dona Drake
as Mary Adams
as Muriel
as Mihirmah
as Dona Drake
as Beatrice
as Nea
as Herself
as Rita Rio
as Rita Rio
as Mademoiselle Fifi