38 Facts About Dorothy Kilgallen

Early Life and Background

Dorothy Kilgallen was a fascinating figure whose life was filled with remarkable achievements and intriguing stories. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about her early years.

1. Born on July 3, 1913, in Chicago, Illinois, Dorothy was the daughter of a prominent newspaper editor, James Lawrence Kilgallen.
2. Her family moved to New York City when she was a child, where she attended Erasmus Hall High School in Brooklyn.
3. Dorothy's passion for journalism was evident from a young age, inspired by her father's career.
4. She attended the College of New Rochelle but left before graduating to pursue a career in journalism.

Career Beginnings

Dorothy's career took off quickly, and she became a well-known journalist and television personality.

5. She started working for the New York Evening Journal in 1931, covering various beats.
6. In 1936, Dorothy gained national attention by competing in a race around the world against two male journalists.
7. Her book, "Girl Around the World," chronicled her experiences during this race and became a bestseller.
8. Dorothy joined the New York Journal-American in 1938, where she wrote a popular column called "The Voice of Broadway."

Television Fame

Dorothy's fame extended beyond print journalism as she became a familiar face on television.

9. She was a regular panelist on the popular TV game show "What's My Line?" from 1950 until her death in 1965.
10. Dorothy's sharp wit and keen observations made her a favorite among viewers.
11. She was known for her glamorous style, often wearing elegant gowns and elaborate hairstyles on the show.
12. Dorothy's television presence helped solidify her status as a celebrity journalist.

Investigative Journalism

Dorothy was not just a gossip columnist; she was also a serious investigative journalist.

13. She covered many high-profile trials, including the Sam Sheppard murder case, which inspired the TV series "The Fugitive."
14. Dorothy was one of the few journalists to interview Jack Ruby, the man who killed Lee Harvey Oswald.
15. She was deeply interested in the assassination of President John F. Kennedy and conducted her own investigation.
16. Dorothy's notes and research on the JFK assassination were never found after her death, leading to various conspiracy theories.

Personal Life

Dorothy's personal life was as intriguing as her professional one.

17. She married actor Richard Kollmar in 1940, and they had three children together.
18. The couple co-hosted a radio show called "Breakfast with Dorothy and Dick" from 1945 to 1963.
19. Dorothy was known for her lavish parties, often attended by celebrities and influential figures.
20. Despite her busy career, she was a devoted mother and often involved her children in her work.

Controversies and Challenges

Dorothy's career was not without its controversies and challenges.

21. She faced criticism for her outspoken views and fearless reporting.
22. Dorothy had a public feud with fellow journalist Walter Winchell, which was widely covered in the media.
23. She was accused of fabricating stories, though she always defended her work as truthful.
24. Dorothy's investigation into the JFK assassination brought her both praise and scrutiny from various quarters.

Legacy and Impact

Dorothy Kilgallen left a lasting legacy in the world of journalism and entertainment.

25. She paved the way for future generations of female journalists with her fearless reporting and strong presence.
26. Dorothy's work on "What's My Line?" remains iconic, and the show is still fondly remembered by fans.
27. Her investigative journalism inspired many to pursue the truth, no matter the obstacles.
28. Dorothy's life and career have been the subject of numerous books, documentaries, and articles.

Mysterious Death

Dorothy's death remains one of the most mysterious aspects of her life.

29. She was found dead in her New York City apartment on November 8, 1965, at the age of 52.
30. The official cause of death was listed as an overdose of alcohol and barbiturates.
31. Many believe Dorothy's death was suspicious, given her investigation into the JFK assassination.
32. Her notes and research on the case were missing, adding to the mystery surrounding her death.

Fun Facts

Here are some fun and quirky facts about Dorothy Kilgallen that you might not know.

33. Dorothy was an avid reader and had an extensive personal library.
34. She loved to travel and often incorporated her adventures into her writing.
35. Dorothy had a keen interest in the paranormal and wrote about her experiences with psychics and mediums.
36. She was a talented pianist and often played at her parties.
37. Dorothy's favorite color was blue, and she often wore it in her television appearances.
38. She was a fan of mystery novels and often used them as inspiration for her own investigative work.

Dorothy Kilgallen's Enduring Legacy

Dorothy Kilgallen left a lasting impact on journalism and entertainment. Her fearless reporting and sharp wit made her a household name. From her groundbreaking coverage of the Sam Sheppard trial to her mysterious death, Kilgallen's life was filled with intrigue. Her work on "What's My Line?" showcased her versatility and charm, endearing her to millions.

Kilgallen's dedication to uncovering the truth, even at great personal risk, set a high standard for journalists. Her legacy continues to inspire those who seek to challenge the status quo and pursue justice. Though her life was cut short, her contributions to media and culture remain significant. Remembering Dorothy Kilgallen means honoring a trailblazer who dared to ask the tough questions and never shied away from controversy. Her story is a testament to the power of persistence and courage in the face of adversity.