Debra Paget, born on August 19, 1933, in Denver, Colorado, was destined for stardom from a young age. At just 13 years old, she got her first taste of the spotlight when she appeared in a stage production of Shakespeare's The Merry Wives of Windsor. Her natural talent and beauty caught the attention of industry insiders, leading to her feature film debut in the 1948 crime drama Cry of the City.
Paget quickly made a name for herself in Hollywood, landing roles in films such as The Ten Commandments, The Tomb of Love, and Broken Arrow. However, it was her role in Elvis Presley's first feature film, Love Me Tender, that solidified her status as a leading lady in the 1950s.
Despite her success on the silver screen, Paget's personal life was marred by turmoil. She was briefly married to actor David Street in 1958, followed by a short-lived marriage to director Budd Boetticher from 1960 to 1961. In 1962, she tied the knot with Ling C. Kung, with whom she had a son named Gregory. Unfortunately, the marriage ended in divorce in 1980.
After her marriage to Kung, Paget took a step back from acting and focused on raising her son. She made a brief return to the screen in the 1962 horror thriller The Haunted Palace, marking her final film role. Despite stepping away from Hollywood, Paget's legacy as a versatile and talented actress lives on, with her performances continuing to captivate audiences to this day.
Throughout her career, Paget worked with notable actors such as Charlton Heston, with whom she starred in The Ten Commandments. Her on-screen presence and ability to bring characters to life left a lasting impression on the industry, solidifying her status as a Hollywood icon.
Debra Paget's journey from a young stage performer to a silver screen sensation is a testament to her talent and perseverance. Despite facing personal struggles and setbacks, she remained dedicated to her craft and left behind a lasting legacy that continues to inspire generations of actors and audiences alike. Her contributions to the film industry will never be forgotten, and her impact will be felt for years to come.