Dona Drake
ActingAbout Dona Drake
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.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Dona Drake reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 29 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Comedy
The majority of Dona Drake's filmography leans towards the Comedy genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 34% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Dona Drake remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Another Part of the Forest, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Dona Drake Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Dona Drake's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Dona Drake.
Dona Drake - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Dona Drake?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Dona Drake is "Another Part of the Forest" with a rating of 7.6/10.
How many movies has Dona Drake acted in?
Dona Drake has been featured in at least 29 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Dona Drake?
Other notable films include "I Look at You", "Kansas City Confidential", and "Fortunes of Captain Blood".