Many Hollywood stars have had their singing parts dubbed by “ghost singers” throughout film history. Rita Hayworth’s singing in “Gilda” was actually dubbed by Anita Ellis, while Debbie Reynolds was dubbed by Betty Noyes in “Singin’ in the Rain.” Marni Nixon, known as the “ghostess with the mostest,” dubbed for Marilyn Monroe in “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” and Audrey Hepburn in “My Fair Lady.” Natalie Wood’s singing in “West Side Story” was replaced by Marni Nixon, causing tension on set. Peggy Wood’s singing in “The Sound of Music” was dubbed by Margery McKay, and Zac Efron’s singing in “High School Musical” was actually performed by Drew Seeley for most of the songs. Despite advancements in technology, ghost singers are still occasionally used in modern filmmaking.
From Audrey Hepburn to Zac Efron: a brief history of dubbed singing in Hollywood
Updated on April 27, 2024