Kilgallen, Dorothy

Dorothy Kilgallen, newswoman, Broadway columnist and TV panelist was born in Chicago on July 3, 1913. Emulating her father, noted newsman James L. Kilgallen, she began her journalism career at the age of 17. In 1936 The New York Evening Journal sent her on an around-the-world trip in competition with reporters from two other daily newspapers. Romanticized as a modern Nellie Bly her fame was secured, receiving not only a role in the 1937 movie Winner Take All, but also a daily column entitled The Voice of Broadway . In 1945, Ms. Kilgallen and her husband, Richard Kollmar, became the stars of a morning radio program, Breakfast With Dorothy and Dick . It ran from 1945 until 1963. Her television career began when she appeared on the first panel of the quiz show What's My Line? in 1950. Dorothy Kilgallen was known for her tough reporting style, her stylish dress and her caustic commentary on notables of the day. She died on November 8, 1965.

From the guide to the Dorothy Kilgallen papers and scrapbooks, 1936-1965, (The New York Public Library. Billy Rose Theatre Division.)

Dorothy Kilgallen, newswoman, Broadway columnist and TV panelist was born in Chicago on July 3, 1913.

Emulating her father, noted newsman James L. Kilgallen, she began her journalism career at the age of 17. In 1936, "The New York Evening Journal" sent her on an around-the-world trip in competition with reporters from two other daily newspapers. Romanticized as a modern Nellie Bly, her fame was secured, receiving not only a role in the 1937 movie, SINNER TAKE ALL, but also a daily column entitled, "The Voice of Broadway." In 1945, Ms. Kilgallen and her husband, Richard Kollmar, became the stars of a morning radio program, BREAKFAST WITH DOROTHY AND DICK. It ran from 1945 until 1963. Her television career began when she appeared on the first panel of the quiz show WHAT'S MY LINE in 1950. Dorothy Kilgallen was known for her tough reporting style, her stylish dress and her caustic commentary on notables of the day. She died on November 8, 1965.

From the description of Dorothy Kilgallen papers and scrapbooks, 1936-1965. (New York Public Library). WorldCat record id: 122517602