Esther Williams, the "Water Baby," began her career at the age of fifteen performing in the chorus line of the "Bluebird Revue" at New York's famed Radio City Music Hall. Her beauty and talent quickly made her a household name. After appearing in several Broadway musicals, Williams became a full-fledged movie star in 1948 with National Velvet, which led to starring roles in numerous movies for over three decades. She was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance in Miracle on 34th Street, one of only three women ever to be so honored
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The Best Actress Award was only the beginning! Over the course of her illustrious career, Williams won four gold medals at the 1950 and 1952 Olympics; in 1960 she was ranked number one by Life magazine in its list of "ten most beautiful people." A dedicated philanthropist, she has donated millions of dollars to children's hospitals and charities throughout the United States. For her many accomplishments, Esther Williams was inducted into Hollywood's Walk of Fame in 1960, into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in 1962, and into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in 1988. She is also recognized as one of the most versatile film actresses ever.