Funicello’s parents signed a crappy contract with Disney - Basically it kept Funicello on a weekly salary for nearly a decade and prevented her from seeking out more lucrative opportunities. By late 1963, she was out of the contract and she began the “Bikini” films that were the highlight of the second act of her career.share
She had such a sad ending with having Multiple Sclerosis.
shareOne extremely beautiful lady.
shareFor those who weren't around in 1955, she had all the charisma and was the favourite mouseketeer of everyone. To see her was to love her immediately. Disney hand picked her after seeing her in a ballet recital. She was the last one chosen for the show. She sang once on the show and fans demanded a record so Walt got her a recording contract even though she was not a singer. She put out several albums and singles and worked with Paul Anka and dated him as well. Yes, her career kind of fizzled and then the MS but she was mad talented and adorable. There are some good retrospectives and interviews on youtube.
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