Dagmar: From West Virginia to Hollywood and Back

DagmarPhoto byAlfred Eisenstaedt for Life magazine

Humble Beginnings in West Virginia

Virginia Ruth Egnor, known to the world as Dagmar, was born on November 29, 1921, in Yawkey, West Virginia. She attended Huntington High School in Huntington, West Virginia, where she was affectionately known as Ruthie. After high school, she furthered her education at the Huntington Business School. During these early years, she worked at Walgreens as a cashier, waitress, sandwich maker, and soda jerk, embodying the hardworking spirit of her small-town roots.

A Star is Born: The Rise of Dagmar

Dagmar's rise to fame began in 1950 when she was hired to appear on NBC's "Broadway Open House," the network's first late-night television show. Her statuesque figure and striking looks quickly made her a household name. With her signature low-cut gowns and curvaceous figure, she played the role of a stereotypical dumb blonde, but her quick wit and genuine talent shone through. She became the first major female star of television, receiving much press coverage during that decade and averaging 2000 fan letters a week.

Early Career and Broadway Success

Before her television fame, Dagmar's journey included a stint as a fashion photographer's model in New York, where she adopted the stage name Jennie Lewis. Encouraged by other models, she auditioned for comedians Ole Olsen and Chic Johnson and was cast in their Broadway musical revue, "Laffing Room Only." She also appeared as a chorus girl named Bubbles in the Broadway comedy "Burlesque," performing alongside Bert Lahr. These experiences laid the foundation for her later success on television.

Iconic Television Moments

Dagmar's popularity soared with her appearances on "Broadway Open House." Her character's dim-witted charm and tight sweaters captivated audiences, leading to significant press coverage and a salary increase from $75 to $1,250. She even hosted the show when Jerry Lester, the original host, walked off. Her success continued with her own show, "Dagmar's Canteen," and guest appearances on shows like "Hollywood Squares" and "The Colgate Comedy Hour." She even recorded a novelty duet with Frank Sinatra, "Mama Will Bark."

Life Beyond the Spotlight

Despite the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, Dagmar never forgot her roots. In June 1996, she moved back to Ceredo, West Virginia, to be closer to her family. In her final years, she lived with her brother Bob Egnor and his wife. Dagmar passed away on October 9, 2001, in Ceredo, WV, of undisclosed causes. Her passing marked the end of an era, but her legacy lived on. Dagmar was survived by three sisters, three brothers, an aunt, and numerous nieces and nephews who remember her not just as a star, but as a beloved family member.

A Shining Example of West Virginia Pride

Dagmar's story is a testament to the fact that no matter how far you go, you can always come home. Her journey from the bustling halls of Walgreens to the bright lights of NBC, and back to the quiet streets of Ceredo, is a reminder of the power of dreams and the importance of family. She remains a shining example of West Virginia pride, proving that even the smallest towns can produce the brightest stars. Everyone agrees she was just as nice and down-home folksy as you could possibly want. Milton Berle once said of her, "She was extra-talented. She could sing, she could dance, she knew how to throw a line, and she was a good 'feed,' like a straight woman. She was a pro."

Dagmar's legacy lives on, not just in the memories of those who knew her but in the history of television and the hearts of her fans. She remains an enduring symbol of the golden age of television and a beloved daughter of West Virginia.