KIT Publications - Biography

The Other Side of Ethel Mertz: The Life Story of Vivian Vance
by Frank Castelluccio and Alvin Walker
Introduction by Robert Osborne

Which name is more familiar to you, Ethel Mertz or Vivian Vance? Chances are, like most of America, you think you know Lucy's feisty sidekick Ethel; but the actress Vivian Vance, who backed Lucille Ball so successfully in the comedy series "I Love Lucy" had an exciting life and career long before Desi Arnaz chose her, against Lucy's wishes, to play Ethel.

Here are little known facts and stories not only about the stormy relationship of Lucy and Ethel, but wonderfully funny vignettes about Vivian Vance's early life on the stage - performing with such legends as Jimmy Durante, Ethel Merman, Bob Hope, Ed Wynn and Gypsy Rose Lee.

Given the popularity and fame Vivian Vance achieved in her life, it's strange that no biography of this gifted actress appeared before now. Yet, it's perhaps not so strange after all. This lovely, vibrant woman was adept at hiding the unhappy parts of her life or the facts that did not fit the image she painstakingly constructed for herself over the years.

At the time she was considered one of the most adept comic actresses of her time, bringing happiness to millions each week Vivian Vance fought a frightening personal battle with depression. Her story - the story of a woman who overcame family problems, marital problems and a host of professional problems to help create a television classic - is told with gusto and with nothing held back in The Other Side of Ethel Mertz: the Life Story of Vivian Vance.

The authors trace brilliantly and sympathetically the development of a woman who turned adversity into strength all her life. Frank Castelluccio and Alvin Walker, have done their homework.

Thoroughly researched and authenticated, The Other Side of Ethel Mertz tells the remarkable tale of this feisty and talented woman.

Both authors live the the Los Angeles area. This book, their first, was nominated for The Theatre Library Association Award.

Reviews
Reviewer's Bookwatch - "....a superb biography...must reading for every fan of the I Love Lucy series."

Booklist - "....a notable additions to American cultural documentation."

Nanette Fabray - "It is high time that she gets credit for her incredible contribution to comedy. This book does just that."

The Hollywood Reporter - "Fascinating"

New York Daily News - "Good Stuff"

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Page last updated 04/30/04