Annette Kellerman
Annette Marie Sarah Kellermann (6 July 1886 – 6 November 1975) was an Australian professional swimmer, vaudeville star, film actress, and writer, usually known as Annette Kellerman.
Annette Kellerman | |
|---|---|
Kellermann in her famous one-piece bathing suit, c. 1906 | |
| Born | Annette Marie Sarah Kellermann 6 July 1886 Marrickville, New South Wales, Australia |
| Died | 6 November 1975 (aged 89) Southport, Queensland, Australia |
| Resting place | Great Barrier Reef |
| Nationality | Australian |
| Occupation(s) | Swimmer, actress, writer |
| Known for | Swimmer, actress, writer, Inventor of Synchronised Swimming, Pioneer of women's swimwear |
| Spouse |
James Raymond Louis Sullivan
(m. 1912–1975) |
| Parent(s) | Alice Charbonnet-Kellermann Frederick William Kellermann |
Kellermann was one of the first women to wear a one-piece bathing costume, instead of the then-accepted pantaloons, and inspired others to follow her example. Kellerman's swimming costumes became so popular that she started her own fashion line of one-piece bathing suits. Kellermann helped popularize the sport of synchronised swimming, and authored a swimming manual. She appeared in several movies, usually with aquatic themes, and as the star of the 1916 film A Daughter of the Gods was the first major actress to appear nude in a Hollywood production. Kellermann was an advocate of health, fitness, and natural beauty throughout her life.