Profile of the Day: Dean Martin

On this day in 1917, singer and actor Dean Martin was born in Steubenville, Ohio.

Image: Dean Martin / Wikimedia Commons

He was born Dino Paul Crocetti to Gaetano Alfonso Crocetti and Angela Barra. At home, Martin first learned to speak Italian and didn’t learn to speak English until he first went to school at the age of 5. After dropping out of high school, Martin bootlegged liquor, served as a speakeasy croupier, worked as a blackjack dealer, and even spent some time working as a boxer under the name “Kid Crochet.”

After Martin met comic Jerry Lewis, the duo formed a formidable music-comedy team. They performed together for years before splitting due to creative differences. After striking out on his own, Martin returned to his singing career and began performing in Las Vegas as a member of the legendary Rat Pack.

On Christmas Day in 1995, Martin died of acute respiratory failure in his home in Beverly Hills, California. He was 78.

Do you have a favorite song or film by the the iconic crooner?

Explore Dean Martin’s family tree and discover how you’re related to the legendary star.

View Dean Martin’s Geni Profile