in Aiea, Hawaii, Bette attended Radford High School, where she was already beginning to make her mark with titles like “Most Talkative” and “Most Dramatic.”
Midler’s passion for the performing arts blossomed during her college years at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, where she majored in drama. Despite leaving after only three semesters, Midler continued to hone her craft. She even appeared as an extra in the 1966 film Hawaii, albeit in a minor uncredited role as a seasick passenger.
The Continental Baths: The Birth of an Icon
Bette Midler’s big break came in the early 1970s when she began performing at the Continental Baths, a gay bathhouse in New York City. In a space known for its eccentricity and avant-garde performances, Bette captured the hearts of audiences with her bold and captivating performances. It was here that she first built a loyal following and gained attention for her impeccable voice and dramatic flair. Her performances were a blend of comedy, music, and captivating storytelling, a style she would carry with her throughout her career.
It was at the Continental Baths where Bette met her longtime collaborator, Barry Manilow, who would go on to produce some of her biggest hits. The early 70s marked the beginning of Midler’s meteoric rise, laying the foundation for her future successes in both music and film.
Musical Stardom: 14 Albums and Countless Hits
After gaining popularity at the Continental Baths, Bette Midler transitioned into a full-fledged musical career, becoming a celebrated solo artist. Over the years, she released 14 studio albums and sold over 30 million records worldwide. With four Gold, three Platinum, and three Multiplatinum albums under her belt, Bette solidified her place in the music industry.
Her musical achievements include unforgettable hits like “The Rose”, “Wind Beneath My Wings”, “Do You Want to Dance”, and “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy”. Her rendition of “The Rose” earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance, and “Wind Beneath My Wings” won the coveted Grammy for Record of the Year.
Bette’s musical style spans a range of genres, from pop and rock to jazz and musical theater, but it is her ability to infuse emotion and vulnerability into every performance that sets her apart. Her voice became the hallmark of her performances, earning her the title of “The Divine Miss M.”
From Broadway to Film: A Versatile Talent
While Bette Midler’s music career soared, her acting career followed closely behind, with her making an impact both on Broadway and in Hollywood. In 1979, she made her film debut in the musical drama The Rose, which was based on the life of a fictional rock star. Her portrayal earned her the Golden Globe Award for Best Actress – Motion Picture Comedy or Musical, along with nominations for an Academy Award and a BAFTA Award.
The 1980s saw Bette Midler’s career truly take flight in film. She starred in Down and Out in Beverly Hills (1986) and Ruthless People (1986), both of which became box office successes. But it was her role in Beaches (1988), a poignant story of friendship and loss, that solidified her status as a beloved Hollywood icon.
From Hocus Pocus (1993) to The First Wives Club (1996), and The Stepford Wives (2004), Bette continued to showcase her range in both comedic and dramatic roles. She also reprised her role as Winifred Sanderson in the Hocus Pocus sequel in 2022, delighting a whole new generation of fans.
A Legacy of Philanthropy and Environmental Advocacy
Bette Midler’s influence extends far beyond her career in entertainment. A passionate philanthropist, she founded the New York Restoration Project (NYRP) in 1995, an organization dedicated to restoring green spaces in New York City’s underserved neighborhoods. The NYRP works to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to clean and safe parks, an endeavor that reflects Midler’s deep commitment to community and the environment.
Her advocacy for environmental and conservation issues is another important part of her legacy. Throughout her career, Bette has been a vocal supporter of various causes, including efforts to protect wildlife and combat climate change.
The Showgirl Must Go On: A Las Vegas Residency
In 2008, Bette Midler’s star power reached a new milestone when she signed a residency at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. The show, Bette Midler: The Showgirl Must Go On, ran for two years, from 2008 to 2010, and became a major success. Her residency in Las Vegas was a testament to her enduring appeal, combining her talents for music, comedy, and drama in a spectacular performance that attracted fans from around the world.
In 2017, Bette returned to Broadway in the iconic role of Dolly Levi in Hello, Dolly!. Her performance was met with rave reviews, earning her a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. It marked her return to the stage in a leading role after many years, further cementing her legacy as a true Broadway legend.
Conclusion: A Journey of Perseverance and Excellence
Bette Midler’s incredible journey from singing at a gay bathhouse to becoming one of the most awarded and influential entertainers of her generation is truly remarkable. Her career is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and staying true to oneself. From her early days at the Continental Baths to her successes in music, film, and Broadway, Bette’s path to stardom has inspired countless individuals across the globe.
Her story teaches us that no matter where we start, with hard work, passion, and dedication, we can achieve greatness. Bette Midler’s career proves that talent knows no bounds, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
