Desi Arnaz was born in Cuba to a wealthy and powerful family. But his story became one of riches to rags when his father was jailed and the family fled to the U.S. But setbacks weren’t going to keep him down… At 16-years-old, Desi worked odd jobs to help support his family until he got a gig as a guitarist đž
After working as a musician, he was offered a role in the Broadway musical âToo Many Girlsâ and later starred in Hollywood’s film version, where he met his future wife, actress Lucille Ball.
He joined the Army and entertained troops during World War II, and later formed his own successful orchestra.
Desiâs starring role as âRicky Ricardo,â alongside his wife in the iconic sitcom âI Love Lucyâ made him a household name. His catchphrases like âyouâve got some âsplainin to doâ had audiences roaring with laughter. As a producer, he pioneered the live audience sitcom format that many of our favorite shows still use today.
And his impact on Hollywood went farther when his studio, Desilu Productions, became the driving force behind âMission Impossibleâ and âStar Trekâ movies… Not bad for a poor musician from Cuba đ€©
