Yvonne De Carlo
Actor
About Yvonne De Carlo
Yvonne De Carlo, born Margaret Yvonne Middleton, was a Canadian-American actress who rose to fame as a Hollywood sex symbol in the 1940s and 1950s. After winning a beauty contest in Vancouver, she moved to Los Angeles and began her career with small roles in films like 'The Deerslayer' (1943). Her breakthrough came with 'Salome Where She Danced' (1945), which established her as a leading lady known for her exotic beauty and dancing abilities. Throughout the 1950s, she starred in numerous films including 'Criss Cross' (1949) and her most iconic role as Nefretiri in Cecil B. DeMille's 'The Ten Commandments' (1956). Later in her career, she found renewed fame as Lily Munster in the beloved television series 'The Munsters' (1964-1966). She continued acting in films and television through the 1970s and 1980s, appearing in over 100 productions during her lifetime.
The Craft
On Screen
Known for her sultry, exotic screen presence and versatility as both dramatic actress and musical performer. De Carlo possessed a commanding presence that allowed her to excel in costume epics, film noir, and comedy. Her background in dance and singing made her particularly effective in musical and dramatic roles requiring physical grace.
Milestones
- Breakthrough role in 'Salome Where She Danced' (1945)
- Starred as Nefretiri in 'The Ten Commandments' (1956)
- Played Lily Munster in 'The Munsters' TV series (1964-1966)
- Appeared in 'McLintock!' with John Wayne (1963)
- Received Golden Globe nomination for 'The Ten Commandments'
- Published autobiography 'Yvonne: An Autobiography' (1987)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actress (1947)
- Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress on Television (1976)
Nominated
- Golden Globe nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for 'The Ten Commandments' (1956)
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (6124 Hollywood Blvd)
- Canadian Walk of Fame star (2005)
- Western Heritage Awards Bronze Wrangler for 'McLintock!' (1963)
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Yvonne De Carlo represented the transition from the classic Hollywood star system to television stardom, successfully bridging both mediums. As one of the last of the great Hollywood sirens, she embodied the glamour and mystique of Golden Age cinema while adapting to changing times. Her role as Lily Munster made her an iconic figure in American pop culture, introducing her to a new generation of viewers and cementing her status as a television legend. The character became a Halloween staple and remains recognizable decades later.
Lasting Legacy
Yvonne De Carlo's legacy spans multiple eras of entertainment, from the Golden Age of Hollywood to classic television. She is remembered for her versatility as an actress, capable of playing sultry femme fatales, epic heroines, and comedic characters with equal skill. Her portrayal of Lily Munster created one of television's most beloved maternal figures, challenging traditional family dynamics while maintaining warmth and humor. De Carlo's career demonstrates the adaptability required for longevity in show business, and she remains a symbol of Hollywood's golden era.
Who They Inspired
De Carlo influenced subsequent generations of actors through her ability to transition between film and television successfully. Her combination of glamour, talent, and professionalism set a standard for performers in multiple media. The character of Lily Munster influenced countless television mothers and helped normalize unconventional family structures in mainstream entertainment. Many actresses who followed cited her ability to maintain stardom across decades as an inspiration.
Off Screen
Yvonne De Carlo married stuntman/actor Robert Morgan in 1955, and they remained together until his death in 1973. She had two sons, Bruce and Michael Morgan. Her husband suffered a serious accident during the filming of 'How the West Was Won' (1962) that left him partially paralyzed, and De Carlo worked extensively to support the family. She converted to Catholicism in the 1940s and maintained her faith throughout her life.
Education
Attended Lord Byng Secondary School in Vancouver, studied dancing at the British Columbia School of Dance
Family
- Robert Morgan (1955-1973)
Did You Know?
- Was discovered by a talent scout while working as a dancer in a Vancouver nightclub
- Changed her name to Yvonne De Carlo after her mother's maiden name 'DeCarlo'
- Was considered for the role of Marion in 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' (1981)
- Performed her own singing in many films and recorded several albums
- Was a licensed pilot and enjoyed flying in her spare time
- Spoke fluent Italian and used it in several films
- Was a close friend of Marilyn Monroe
- Appeared in over 100 films and television shows during her career
- Was offered the role of Morticia Addams in 'The Addams Family' but turned it down
- Her character Lily Munster was based on a combination of Bride of Frankenstein and Vampira
In Their Own Words
I was a star, but I was also a mother. I had to be both.
Hollywood is a place where they'll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and fifty cents for your soul.
I never thought of myself as a sex symbol. I was just an actress trying to make a living.
The Munsters was the best thing that ever happened to me. It brought me to a whole new audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Yvonne De Carlo?
Yvonne De Carlo was a Canadian-American actress, singer, and dancer who became a Hollywood star in the 1940s and 1950s, best known for her roles in 'The Ten Commandments' and as Lily Munster in the TV series 'The Munsters'.
What films is Yvonne De Carlo best known for?
She is most famous for 'The Ten Commandments' (1956) as Nefretiri, 'Criss Cross' (1949), 'McLintock!' (1963), and her television role as Lily Munster in 'The Munsters' (1964-1966).
When was Yvonne De Carlo born and when did she die?
Yvonne De Carlo was born on September 1, 1922, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and died on January 8, 2007, in Los Angeles, California, at age 84.
What awards did Yvonne De Carlo win?
She won the Golden Globe for New Star of the Year in 1947, a Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actress on Television in 1976, and has stars on both the Hollywood and Canadian Walks of Fame.
What was Yvonne De Carlo's acting style?
De Carlo was known for her sultry, exotic screen presence and versatility, excelling in costume epics, film noir, and comedy. Her background in dance and singing made her particularly effective in roles requiring physical grace and musical ability.
How did Yvonne De Carlo get her start in Hollywood?
After winning a beauty contest in Vancouver, she moved to Los Angeles and began with small roles in the early 1940s, getting her breakthrough in 'Salome Where She Danced' (1945) which established her as a leading lady.
Was Yvonne De Carlo married?
Yes, she married stuntman and actor Robert Morgan in 1955, and they remained together until his death in 1973. They had two sons together, Bruce and Michael.
Learn More
Films
1 film
