Ruth Etting - Actor Profile

Ruth Etting

Acting
Freshness: Jan 21, 2026
22Total Films
7.0 Highest Rated
Born: Nov 22, 1896
Birth Place: David City, Nebraska, USA

About Ruth Etting

From Wikipedia Ruth Etting (November 23, 1896 – September 24, 1978) was an American singing star and actress of the 1920s and 1930s, who had over 60 hit recordings and worked in stage, radio, and film. She is known as "America's sweetheart of song". Her signature tunes were "Shine On, Harvest Moon", "Ten Cents a Dance" and "Love Me or Leave Me". Her other popular recordings included "Button Up Your Overcoat", "Mean to Me", "Exactly Like You" and "Shaking the Blues Away". In Hollywood, Etting made a long series of movie shorts between 1929 and 1936, and three feature movies in 1933 and 1934. In 1936, she appeared in London in Ray Henderson's Transatlantic Rhythm. Her life was the basis for the fictionalized 1955 film Love Me or Leave Me, which starred Doris Day (as Etting), James Cagney (as Snyder) and Cameron Mitchell (as Alderman). Etting, Myrl Alderman and Moe Snyder all sold their rights to the story to MGM. Shortly before her death, Etting said she thought the screen portrayal of her was too tough and that Jane Powell would have been a better choice for the lead. For her work in films, Etting has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame located on the north side of the 6500 block of Hollywood Boulevard.

Career Statistics & Market Influence

Analyzing the cinematic journey of Ruth Etting reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 22 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.

Genre Dominance: Music

The majority of Ruth Etting's filmography leans towards the Music genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.

The "Box Office" Signature

With a 14% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Ruth Etting remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in An Old Spanish Onion, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.

Best Ruth Etting Movies Ranked

Must-watch hits from Ruth Etting's career based on audience ratings.

Complete Filmography & Success Status

Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Ruth Etting.

Ruth Etting - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best movie of Ruth Etting?

According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Ruth Etting is "An Old Spanish Onion" with a rating of 7.0/10.

How many movies has Ruth Etting acted in?

Ruth Etting has been featured in at least 22 major films throughout their career.

What are some other popular movies by Ruth Etting?

Other notable films include "I Know Everybody and Everybody's Racket", "Hips, Hips, Hooray!", and "A Regular Trouper".