Dina Merrill (born Nedenka Pataky; December 12 1919 – May 22 2017) was an American actress, socialite, and philanthropist. She appeared in film, television, and theatre over a career that spanned more than six decades. Merrill was also known for her extensive charitable work, particularly in the fields of education and the arts.
Early life and education
Nedenka Pataky was born in New York City to Hungarian-born parents, Marie (née Runcz) and Hungarian-born film mogul and philanthropist Sir James G. Pataky (originally György Pata). She was the granddaughter of the philanthropist and financier Charles E. Merrill, co‑founder of the brokerage firm Merrill Lynch. Merrill attended the Dalton School and later enrolled at the University of Southern California, where she studied drama before transferring to the University of Arizona. She earned a degree in political science.
Acting career
Film
Merrill made her film debut in the 1945 drama “The Big Clock.” She subsequently appeared in a series of notable movies, including “The Last Time I Saw Paris” (1954), “The Sundowners” (1960), “A Patch of Blue” (1965), and “The Way We Were” (1973). Over her film career she was credited in more than 30 feature films.
Television
From the 1950s onward, Merrill became a regular presence on American television. She guest‑starred in series such as “Alfred Hitchcock Presents,” “Perry Mason,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “The Love Boat.” In 1969 she starred as the title character in the short‑lived series “The Best of the West.” Merrill also appeared in television movies, including “The Miracle of the Bells” (1948) and “The Price of a Hatful of Money” (1978).
Stage
Merrill performed on Broadway, making her debut in “The Relapse” (1950). She later appeared in productions such as “The Merchant of Venice” (1952) and “A Streetcar Named Desire” (1963).
Philanthropy and public service
Merrill was a benefactor of numerous cultural and educational institutions. She served on the board of trustees for the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and contributed to the New York Public Library, the Museum of Modern Art, and several university scholarship programs. In the 1970s, she established the Dina Merrill Fund, which supported arts education for underprivileged youth.
Personal life
Merrill married four times. Her first marriage (1941–1946) was to actor John Derek, with whom she had a son, John Derek Jr. (later known as John Derek Jr., who died in 1998). Her second marriage (1946–1962) was to Alfred J. Lunt, a businessman. In 1964 she married Claude Pepper, a former United States Senator from Florida; the marriage lasted until his death in 1989. Her fourth marriage (1993–1995) was to Larry K. Fogel, a film producer. Merrill retained her wealth and social standing throughout her life.
Later years and death
After retiring from active acting, Merrill focused on philanthropy and occasional guest appearances. She died on May 22 2017 in New York City at the age of 97. Her death was reported by major news outlets, which highlighted her contributions to film, television, and charitable causes.