Legendary entertainer Dean Martin died on this day having given his last public performance at the age of 78, marking the end of an era for one of the most iconic singers and members of the Rat Pack.
Dean Martin was an American singer, actor, and comedian. Nicknamed the "King of Cool", he is regarded as one of the most popular entertainers of the mid-20th century. Martin gained his career breakthrough together with comedian Jerry Lewis, billed as Martin and Lewis, in 1946. They performed in nightclubs and later had numerous appearances on radio and television and in films.
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Following an acrimonious ending of the partnership in 1956, Martin pursued a solo career as a performer and actor. He established himself as a singer, recording numerous contemporary songs as well as standards from the Great American Songbook.
Martin became one of the most popular acts in Las Vegas and was known for his friendship with fellow artists Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr., who together with several others formed the Rat Pack.