Top 50 Quotes by Ethel Merman

I was born in my parents' bedroom on January 16. The World Almanac says it was 1909. I say it was 1912. But what difference does it make as long as I feel 33?

When you are in deep conflict about something, sometimes the most trivial thing can tip the scales.

I have been ambitious to be a somebody from the time I was 5 years old.

I preferred delivering my performance in person. I liked to be in control. You couldn't be in films.

I wasn't straining at the bit to become a movie star any more than I had plotted to get out of vaudeville and into Broadway musicals.

I wouldn't trust any man as far as you can throw a piano.

I don't like to read. The only things I read are gossip columns. If someone gives me a book, it had better have lots of pictures.

I've made a wonderful living playing that theatrical character - the professional brassy dame.

I take a breath when I have to.

If I feel in need of sleep, I just open a book or turn on the television. Both are better than any sleeping pill.