Dona Drake

Dona Drake (born Eunice Westmoreland on November 15, 1914) was an African-American singer, dancer, and film actress active in the 1930s and 1940s. Despite her heritage, she often identified as Mexican or of Latin descent to navigate Hollywood’s racial landscape. Over her career, she was frequently cast in ethnic roles, portraying Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and European characters.

She performed under various stage names, including Una Novella, Rita Novella, and Rita Rio. In the early 1940s, she led an all-girl orchestra and gained recognition for her musical and dance performances. She appeared in films such as Kansas City Confidential (1952), Louisiana Purchase (1941), and Road to Morocco (1942). Despite her talents, she remained a supporting actress rather than a leading star.

Dona Drake passed away on June 20, 1989, due to pneumonia and respiratory failure. Her ashes were scattered at sea near Point Fermin in California.

Dona Drake is known for work in acting across film and television. New Release currently presents 27 verified screen credits connected to this profile.

Selected work includes Kansas City Confidential (1952), Hollywood Victory Caravan (1945), Road to Morocco (1942), Adventures of Superman (1952), City Detective (1953), Princess of the Nile (1954), Without Reservations (1946), Valentino (1951). The recorded credits span 1936 to 1954, including 25 movies and 2 TV shows.

The filmography below lists available titles, release years and known roles. This profile is updated as additional verified information becomes available.