The Timeline of Doris Day: A Journey Through Her Life and Career (2025)

Born: April 03, 1922

Actress, Singer, Animal Welfare Activist

Doris Day's Birth

Doris Mary Anne Kappelhoff, professionally known as Doris Day, was born on April 3, 1922, in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was born to Alma Sophia and William Joseph Kappelhoff. Doris Day is known as a renowned singer, actress, and animal welfare activist.

Film Debut in 'Romance on the High Seas'

Doris Day made her film debut in the Michael Curtiz-directed musical romantic comedy 'Romance on the High Seas', in which she played the role of Georgia Garrett. Her performance was well-received and earned her recognition as a rising star in Hollywood.

Hit Song 'Secret Love'

Doris Day recorded the hit song 'Secret Love' for the film 'Calamity Jane'. Released as a single in 1953, the song became one of her most successful records, reaching number one on both the Billboard and Cash Box charts. 'Secret Love' won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1954.

'Que Sera, Sera' Release

The song 'Que Sera, Sera (Whatever Will Be, Will Be)', performed by Doris Day, was released as part of the Alfred Hitchcock film 'The Man Who Knew Too Much'. The song became a commercial success, eventually becoming one of Day's signature songs.

CBS 'The Doris Day Show' Premiere

Doris Day starred in her own television sitcom, 'The Doris Day Show', which premiered on September 10, 1968. The show ran for five seasons on CBS and was well-liked for its warmth and humor. Day played the character Doris Martin, a widowed mother who works as a secretary.

Doris Day's 'Her Own Story' Autobiography

Doris Day's autobiography, 'Doris Day: Her Own Story', was published in 1975. Co-authored by A.E. Hotchner, the book detailed Day's career, personal life, and her experiences with Hollywood's studio system, offering an in-depth look at her life and struggles.

Formation of the Doris Day Animal League

In 1980, Doris Day founded the Doris Day Animal League, a non-profit organization aimed at promoting animal welfare and humane treatment of animals. This marked a significant chapter in her life as she became an avid advocate for animal rights.

Doris Day Receives Legend Award from Society of Singers

In 1994, Doris Day was honored with the Legend Award by the Society of Singers in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the music industry. This accolade acknowledged her remarkable singing career and her influence on other artists.

Lifetime Achievement Award from the Grammy Awards

Doris Day received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 46th Annual Grammy Awards in 2004. This prestigious accolade was given in recognition of her significant impact on the music industry through her illustrious career as a legendary singer.

Doris Day's Death

Doris Day passed away on May 13, 2019, at the age of 97 at her home in Carmel Valley Village, California. Her death marked the end of a legendary era in Hollywood as she had been a prominent figure in film, music, and activism for over six decades.