The Million Dollar Mermaid

February 1, 2025
Autobiography

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Make a Splash with the Million Dollar Mermaid

Splish splash your way into the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age with The Million Dollar Mermaid by Esther Williams and Digby Diehl. Follow Esther’s rise from a champion swimmer in Southern California to a silver screen sensation at MGM Studios in the 1940s. Along the way, she dazzles with her athleticism, holds her own among stars like Lana Turner, Ava Gardner, and Carey Grant, and redefines what it means to be a leading lady. Her story is a reminder that making waves sometimes means diving in headfirst.

“Nobody was going to make multi-million dollar aqua-musicals ever again.”

Menu: Million Dollar Mermaid

Indulge in a culinary experience that brings the glamour of Old Hollywood to life. Each course recalls the golden era of studio backlots and poolside parties, featuring real recipes once favored by the stars who ruled the screen.

Drinks

The Million Dollar Mermaid - Drink — Photo by liquor.com

Kick off your Hollywood-inspired meal with a touch of vintage glamour. Start with a timeless bourbon old fashioned from Liquor.com, or channel the spirit of the silver screen with a Hollywood Martini, Hollywood Cocktail, or Vesper Martini from The Spruce Eats.

Appetizers

The Million Dollar Mermaid - Appetizer — Photo by Taste of Home

Whet your appetite with a selection of starters that would feel right at home at a studio cocktail party. Try a refreshing cucumber canapé from Taste of Home, or go for an easy crowd-pleaser with Build Your Bite’s slow cooker spinach artichoke dip.

Salad

Dig into Judy Garland’s favorite salad, a delightful creation that combines fresh vegetables with a dressing meant to be mixed with your hands. Find the recipe courtesy of Tori Avey.

Main

Immerse yourself in the flavors of the sea with Ava Gardner’s fried fillets of flounder from Silver Screen Suppers. Or channel old-school Italian comfort with Mrs. Frank Sinatra’s spaghetti and meatballs, a timeless classic featured on Old Soul Retro.

Side

Complement your main course with classic Parker House rolls from King Arthur Baking, a buttery, fluffy delight that brings a touch of elegance to the table. Or add a dash of nostalgia with sautéed radishes and green beans, a 1950s recipe brought to you by Taste of Home.

Dessert

Conclude your Hollywood-themed feast with a decadent treat inspired by Audrey Hepburn herself. Indulge in her beloved flourless chocolate cake, a rich dessert she enjoyed regularly. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect sweet final scene. Find the recipe at People.

Take a mesmerizing journey back to the Golden Age of Hollywood alongside Esther Williams and her star-studded cast of friends. Let their stories inspire you to chase your dreams and give it your all. For more of Esther magic, treat yourself to a movie night with Million Dollar Mermaid, Neptune’s Daughter, or any of her other timeless classics. And remember, just like Esther, always swim your heart out and don’t be afraid to make waves.