Swedish Star May Britt, Iconic Actress and Sammy Davis Jr’s Wife, Dies at 91

May Britt, a celebrated figure in both European and American film, has died at the age of 91. Her son, Mark, confirmed that she passed away on December 11 at Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center due to medical complications. Britt, born Maj-Britt Wilkens in Sweden, was discovered in Stockholm in the early 1950s. She soon moved to Rome, where she adopted her stage name and quickly made a name for herself in the European film industry.

Hollywood Breakthrough and Notable Roles

In 1957, Britt took her talents to Hollywood after signing with 20th Century Pictures. She landed roles in major films, including starring alongside Marlon Brando in "The Young Lions" in 1958. Her filmography also includes "The Hunters" and "Murder, Inc.," solidifying her reputation as a versatile actress. Her move to the United States marked a significant turning point in her career, opening doors to new opportunities and challenges.

Marriage to Sammy Davis Jr and Public Scrutiny

During her time in Hollywood, Britt met entertainer Sammy Davis Jr. The two married in 1960, a union that drew intense public attention due to the prevailing attitudes toward interracial marriage in America at the time. Their relationship faced significant backlash, as such marriages were still illegal in most states. Britt converted to Judaism before their wedding, with Frank Sinatra serving as best man. Despite the glamour, the couple endured constant threats and required 24-hour security to ensure their safety.

The couple welcomed their daughter, Tracey, in 1961, and later adopted two sons, Mark and Jeff, in 1963. However, the pressures of public scrutiny and personal challenges took a toll. They divorced in 1968, reportedly due to Davis’s infidelity, but maintained a cordial relationship.

“It was very difficult … there were death threats, there were bad words written on our car, they looked for bombs, we had armed guards,”

Tracey shared in a 2014 interview, reflecting on the hardships her family faced.

Life After Hollywood and Lasting Legacy

After her marriage ended, Britt attempted to revive her acting career, but found opportunities limited to brief television appearances. She eventually shifted her focus to painting, finding fulfillment in her art. In 1993, she married Lennart Ringquist, who passed away in 2017. Britt is survived by her sons, Mark and Jeff. Her daughter Tracey died in 2020 at the age of 59.

Despite the challenges she faced, Britt never regretted her choices.

“I loved Sammy, and I had the chance to marry the man I loved,”

she told Vanity Fair in 1999. Her story remains a testament to resilience and the pursuit of love and art, even in the face of adversity.