Doris Day’s Cookie-Cutter Image Hid A Woman In Crisis

"Whatever will be, will be," crooned the elegant, perfectly coiffed Doris Day during the opening credits of her talk show. Audiences around the globe remember the late cinematic leading lady for her effortless grace and unflappable cheeriness. The conservative actress was labeled a safe, wholesome figure, but her most admirable trait was perhaps her ability to power through misfortune. Time and time again, Doris grappled with tragedy and pressed on, showing a far grittier side than we saw in any of her movies.

All-American

Cookie cutter wouldn't even begin to describe Doris Day's reputation. The All American girl, a blonde haired, blue eyed non-threatening beauty, was born April 3, 1922, to a choirmaster father and a homemaker mother. But she had bigger dreams for herself.

Dancing Dreams

Her dream was to make it as a dancer. In her hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio, little Doris made a name for herself as part of a dance duo with her partner Jerry Doherty. But before she could break out of her home town, an accident halted her plans.

Gruesome Injury

Her dreams were dashed before she ever had the chance to sashay across the stage. While cruising with friends, their car was struck twice by a train. Somehow escaping with her life, Doris suffered a lasting leg injury that snuffed out any dancing hopes.

Singing and Healing

While in the hospital, Doris filled the dreary days confined to a bed singing along to the radio while waiting for her leg to mend. Turning what should've been a sad time into a period of beauty, she realized her pipes weren't too shabby.