Lola Falana once hailed as the “Queen of Las Vegas,” faced significant health challenges that transformed her life and career. Known for her captivating performances and stunning beauty, Falana’s life took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1987. This article explores Falana’s journey from the height of her career to her life today, focusing on her resilience and the spiritual awakening that followed her diagnosis.
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Table of Contents
Who is Lola Falana?
Lola Falana, born on September 11, 1942, in Camden, New Jersey, is an American singer, dancer, and actress renowned for her performances on stage, screen, and television. With a career spanning several decades, Falana became a symbol of talent and glamor, breaking barriers and setting records, particularly as a top draw in Las Vegas.
Early Life
The third of six children, Falana’s talent was evident from an early age. By the age of 3, she was dancing, and by 5, she was singing in the church choir. Her passion for performance led her to New York City at a young age, setting the stage for a remarkable career in entertainment.
Career
Falana’s career took off after she was discovered by Sammy Davis Jr., leading to her Broadway debut in “Golden Boy.” Her success on stage led to a music career, films in Italy, and eventually to Las Vegas, where she became known as the “Queen of Las Vegas.” Her performances were legendary, earning her the highest-paid female performer title in Las Vegas at the time.
What Happened to Lola Falana?
In 1987, Falana faced a severe relapse of multiple sclerosis, resulting in partial paralysis, blindness, and impaired speech and hearing. This health crisis marked a turning point in her life, leading her to focus on her spirituality and faith.
Recovery and Spiritual Awakening
Falana’s recovery from multiple sclerosis was a lengthy and challenging process, during which she experienced a profound spiritual awakening. She attributes her recovery to her faith and has since dedicated much of her life to spiritual and religious endeavors.
Later Career and Life
After her recovery, Falana chose not to return to her previous life in the spotlight. Instead, she recorded the song “Don’t Cry, Mary” in 1995 and founded The Lambs of God Ministry. Her last known musical performance was in 1997, after which she focused on her ministry and spiritual life.
Personal Life
Falana’s personal life has been as eventful as her career. She had a well-known affair with Sammy Davis Jr., was married to Feliciano “Butch” Tavares Jr., and underwent a significant transformation after her diagnosis, including converting to Catholicism in 1988.
Health Problems
The severe relapse of multiple sclerosis in 1987 and another bout in 1996 significantly impacted Falana’s life and career. These health challenges led her to retreat from the public eye and focus on her health and spirituality.
Conclusion
Lola Falana’s life story is one of resilience, transformation, and faith. From the heights of entertainment to facing life-altering health challenges, Falana has navigated her journey with grace and strength, leaving a lasting legacy in the entertainment world and beyond.
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FAQs about Lola Falana
- What made Lola Falana famous?
- Lola Falana gained fame as a talented singer, dancer, and actress, particularly known for her performances in Las Vegas, where she became the highest-paid female performer.
- How did multiple sclerosis affect Lola Falana’s career?
- The diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in 1987 significantly impacted Falana’s career, leading to temporary paralysis, vision, and hearing loss, and ultimately a shift away from performing to focus on her health and spirituality.
- What is The Lambs of God Ministry?
- The Lambs of God Ministry is an apostolate founded by Lola Falana focused on helping orphaned children in Sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting her dedication to her faith and humanitarian work.
- Did Lola Falana ever return to performing?
- Although Falana made a brief return to performing in 1997, she has since focused on her ministry and religious life, stepping away from the entertainment industry.
- How has Lola Falana’s legacy endured?
- Lola Falana’s legacy endures through her groundbreaking achievements in entertainment, her courageous battle with multiple sclerosis, and her dedicated humanitarian and spiritual work, inspiring many with her story of faith and resilience.
