Crossword puzzles have been a popular pastime for decades, challenging our minds and testing our knowledge on various topics. One such clue that has puzzled many is the “Tragic Showgirl of Song” crossword clue. While it may seem like just another cryptic clue, it actually refers to a real-life tragedy that shook the world of entertainment in the early 20th century.
The answer to this crossword clue is “Lulu,” which refers to Lulu McConnell, a popular vaudeville performer in the 1910s. She was born in Kansas in 1890 and began her career as a teenager, performing in local theaters and eventually making her way to New York City. There, she became known for her comedic and musical acts, often performing alongside her partner, Harry Fox.
Despite her success on stage, Lulu’s personal life was marked by tragedy. In 1913, she married fellow vaudeville performer Jack Norworth, but the marriage was short-lived, and they divorced in 1914. Lulu then began a relationship with Harry Fox, and the two were married in 1915.
However, their marriage was also troubled, and Harry filed for divorce just two years later, citing Lulu’s drinking and infidelity. The divorce proceedings were messy and highly publicized, with both parties making accusations against each other. Lulu’s reputation was tarnished, and she struggled to find work in the entertainment industry.
In 1920, Lulu was involved in a car accident that left her with serious injuries, including a fractured skull. She underwent multiple surgeries and was left with a permanent scar on her forehead. The accident further damaged her career prospects, and she was forced to retire from performing.
Lulu’s life took a tragic turn in 1924 when she was found dead in her apartment in New York City. She had died from a combination of alcohol and barbiturates, and her death was ruled a suicide. She was just 34 years old.
The tragedy of Lulu McConnell’s life has been immortalized in the song “My Blue Heaven,” which she and Harry Fox popularized in the 1920s. The song’s lyrics describe a happy and idyllic life, in stark contrast to the reality of Lulu’s own life. The irony of the song’s popularity was not lost on those who knew Lulu, and it serves as a reminder of the often-tragic lives of those in the entertainment industry.
Lulu McConnell’s story is also a cautionary tale of the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse. Her struggles with addiction and mental health issues were not uncommon in the entertainment industry of the time, where performers were often subjected to grueling schedules and intense pressure to succeed.
Despite the challenges she faced, Lulu McConnell was a talented performer who brought joy to many through her comedic and musical acts. She paved the way for future female performers in the vaudeville era and left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
Today, Lulu’s story continues to fascinate and inspire, with many books, articles, and documentaries exploring her life and career. Her legacy is also honored through the Lulu McConnell Scholarship Fund, which provides financial support to aspiring performers.
In conclusion, the “Tragic Showgirl of Song” crossword clue may seem like just another cryptic puzzle, but it actually refers to a real-life tragedy that reminds us of the darker side of the entertainment industry. Lulu McConnell’s story is a poignant reminder of the toll that fame and fortune can take on individuals and serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of addiction and mental health issues. Her legacy as a talented performer and trailblazer in the vaudeville era will continue to live on.
