Remembering May Britt: A Trailblazer in Hollywood and Beyond
May Britt, a Swedish actress known for her marriage to Sammy Davis Jr. in 1960, has passed away at the age of 91 due to natural causes. The couple's relationship faced intense backlash and discrimination due to the prevailing societal attitudes towards interracial marriages at the time. Despite the challenges they faced, May Britt continued to pursue her acting career, although she experienced a decline in major film roles following their marriage. She eventually focused on smaller movie parts and guest appearances on television shows until her final screen credit in 1988.
May Britt, born Maybritt Wilkens in 1934 in Sweden, began her acting career after being discovered at the age of 18. She moved to Rome to work on films before transitioning to Hollywood, where she gained recognition for her roles in movies such as The Young Lions and The Hunters. Her marriage to Sammy Davis Jr. in 1960 marked a turning point in her personal and professional life, as the couple faced significant challenges due to their interracial relationship.
Despite the difficulties they encountered, May Britt remained committed to her family and continued to work in the entertainment industry. Her marriage to Sammy Davis Jr. ended in divorce in 1968, but she later remarried in 1993. May Britt is survived by her children, sister, and grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy that reflects her resilience and determination in the face of adversity.