As a dedicated follower of the arts, I can’t help but feel a profound sense of loss at the passing of June Walker Rogers. A woman who embodied the spirit and versatility of Broadway and television like no other, her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
June Walker Rogers, a versatile performer who excelled as a singer, dancer, and comedian both on Broadway and television, has also left her mark as a playwright and author; she passed away peacefully at the age of 97 on July 8th in her Westport, Connecticut home. This news was confirmed by her family.
Born in Steubenville, Ohio, June L. Walker spent her formative years in Queens, New York, where her passion for dance ignited at just five years old.
She excelled as a student and joined an advanced learning track within the New York education system. Consequently, she graduated from high school at the age of 15.
Swiftly earning acclaim, she shared the stage with legendary figures such as Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Louis Prima, Don Rickles, Rodney Dangerfield, and a young man known then as Calypso Gene – who later became a prominent leader of the Church of Islam.
In 1944, June Walker abandoned her scholarship at Columbia University for her debut performance on Broadway, appearing alongside Ole Olsen and Chic Johnson in the comedy revue titled “Laffing Room Only.”
In 1959, she made a comeback on Broadway, sharing the stage with Bert Lahr and Dick Van Dyke in “The Girls Against the Boys.” Later, she became known for her roles in prominent productions such as Tony Bennett’s “Guys & Dolls,” Orson Bean’s “Little Me,” Hal Linden’s “Bells are Ringing,” “Mame” by Rance Howard, and “Oklahoma,” among others.
As a lifestyle aficionado, I’ve had the privilege of gracing multiple stages, including regular appearances on Steve Allen’s and Jack Paar’s shows. Furthermore, I’ve been fortunate enough to perform for luminaries such as Jackie Gleason and Ed Sullivan. To top it off, I’ve even entertained Presidents Truman and Eisenhower at White House functions.
After having a family, she shifted her focus and embarked on a career as an author. Her works such as All American, The Dream on Royal Street, and the play Heidi (which was staged at the Ambassador Auditorium in Pasadena) aimed to enrich California’s cultural arts scene. Her 1986 book, How to Make It in Showbiz: A Survival Kit, has been a mandatory text in university theatre departments across the country.
She resided in Westport for a considerable period and was one of the initial members of Theatre Artists Workshop of Westport, alongside holding membership with the National League of American Pen Women.
As a lifestyle expert, I’d like to share a poignant story about the passing of June Walker Rogers, who was once married to the Tony-nominated lyricist, composer, and actor, David Rogers. After spending nearly half a century together, David sadly passed away at the age of 50. June is survived by her family, which includes Dulcy (my friend Diedrich Bader’s wife), Amanda (ex-wife of Groucho Marx impersonator Frank Ferrante), and their grandchildren – Lucy, Sebastian, Dashiell, and Ondine. This close-knit family continues to forge ahead through life’s journey, honoring the beautiful memories they shared with David.
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2024-08-04 08:07