The Women Behind The Man: George M. Cohan's Wives

Behind every great man, they say, stands a great woman. In the dazzling, often tumultuous world of early 20th-century Broadway, this adage held particularly true for George M. Cohan, the quintessential American showman. While his name is etched in history for his prolific songwriting, electrifying performances, and groundbreaking theatrical productions, less is often said about the personal lives that shaped him, specifically the women who shared his journey. This article delves into the lives of George M. Cohan's wives, Ethel Levey and Agnes Nolan, exploring their unique contributions, their relationships with the "Man Who Owned Broadway," and the profound impact they had on his life and legacy.

George M. Cohan's career was a whirlwind of creativity and relentless work, a life lived largely in the public eye. Yet, like many public figures, his private world remained somewhat shielded. Understanding the women he married offers a more complete picture of the complex individual behind the patriotic anthems and catchy tunes. Their stories are not merely footnotes to his biography but integral chapters that illuminate the personal sacrifices, joys, and challenges inherent in being the partner of an American icon.

Table of Contents

• George M. Cohan: An American Original
  • Early Life and "The Four Cohans"
  • The Man Who Owned Broadway
• Ethel Levey: The First Act
  • A Partnership On Stage and Off
  • The Unraveling of a Vaudeville Romance
• Agnes Nolan: The Enduring Muse
  • A New Chapter and Family Life
  • Supporting the Legend
• The Influence of His Wives on Cohan's Work
• Beyond the Footlights: Their Lives Post-Cohan
• Legacy and Remembrance

George M. Cohan: An American Original

Before delving into the lives of George M. Cohan's wife, it's essential to understand the man himself. George Michael Cohan (1878-1942) was a true titan of American entertainment. Born into a theatrical family, he was a performer, songwriter, playwright, director, and producer, often simultaneously. His patriotic songs like "Over There" and "You're a Grand Old Flag" became anthems, defining an era and cementing his place in the nation's cultural fabric.

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Early Life and "The Four Cohans"

Cohan's journey began almost literally on stage. His parents, Jeremiah "Jerry" Cohan and Helen "Nellie" Costigan Cohan, were vaudeville performers. George and his sister Josephine joined them to form "The Four Cohans," a popular act that toured extensively. This upbringing instilled in George a relentless work ethic and an unparalleled understanding of popular entertainment. He learned every aspect of the business from the ground up, writing sketches, songs, and even managing the act.

The Man Who Owned Broadway

By the turn of the century, Cohan had moved beyond vaudeville, conquering Broadway with a string of hit musicals and plays. His distinctive style—fast-paced, patriotic, and brimming with Irish-American charm—resonated deeply with audiences. He wrote over 300 songs and more than 50 plays, many of which he also starred in. His energy was legendary, earning him the moniker "The Man Who Owned Broadway." Yet, amidst this meteoric rise, his personal life, particularly his marriages, played a significant, if often private, role.

Ethel Levey: The First Act

The first woman to hold the title of George M. Cohan's wife was Ethel Levey. Born in 1881 in San Francisco, Levey was a talented dancer and singer in her own right, a rising star in the vaudeville circuit when she met Cohan. Their union was a powerful theatrical pairing, bringing together two dynamic personalities who shared a passion for the stage.

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A Partnership On Stage and Off

Ethel Levey and George M. Cohan married in 1899. Their professional lives were deeply intertwined. Levey often starred in Cohan's early Broadway productions, including "The Governor's Son" (1901), "Little Johnny Jones" (1904), and "George Washington, Jr." (1906). She was a vibrant presence on stage, complementing Cohan's energetic style. Their collaboration extended beyond the footlights; they were a power couple of early Broadway, navigating the demands of fame and theatrical production together. Their daughter, Georgette Cohan, was born in 1900, adding a family dimension to their bustling lives.

The early 1900s were a period of immense growth for Cohan's career, and Levey was there every step of the way, a witness and participant in his ascent. Her talent was undeniable, and she was more than just a supportive spouse; she was an active partner in their theatrical endeavors. Biographers and historians often note that her presence brought a certain vivacity to Cohan's early shows, particularly as a female lead who could hold her own against his dominant stage persona. Their shared background in vaudeville meant they understood the grueling demands of touring and performing, creating a bond forged in shared experience.

The Unraveling of a Vaudeville Romance

Despite their professional success, the marriage between Ethel Levey and George M. Cohan was not destined to last. The intense pressures of their careers, Cohan's demanding nature, and perhaps the allure of new romantic interests led to their divorce in 1907. This separation marked a significant turning point in Cohan's personal life. The end of his marriage to Levey, while a private matter, undoubtedly had an impact on the public perception of the beloved showman, though it did little to slow his professional momentum.

Divorce in the early 20th century, especially among public figures, was often a scandalous affair, though Cohan and Levey managed to keep much of the details private. The split was reportedly amicable, or at least handled with discretion, allowing both parties to move forward with their careers. Ethel Levey continued to perform, enjoying a successful career on Broadway and in vaudeville long after her marriage to Cohan ended. She became a well-regarded solo act, demonstrating her enduring talent and resilience.

Agnes Nolan: The Enduring Muse

Soon after his divorce from Ethel Levey, George M. Cohan found love again with Agnes Nolan, who would become his second and final George M. Cohan wife. Nolan was not a performer in the same vein as Levey; her background was more in the administrative and supportive roles within the theatrical world. Their marriage, which lasted until Cohan's death in 1942, provided a stable and enduring partnership for the often-frenetic artist.

A New Chapter and Family Life

George M. Cohan and Agnes Nolan married in 1907, the same year his divorce from Levey was finalized. This new marriage ushered in a different phase of Cohan's life, one marked by greater domesticity and the raising of a larger family. With Agnes, Cohan had three more children: Mary Cohan, Helen Cohan, and George M. Cohan Jr. Agnes provided the steady home life that the peripatetic showman often lacked, offering a sanctuary from the relentless demands of his career.

Unlike Ethel, Agnes Nolan was not primarily a performer. Her role was more traditional for the era, focusing on managing the household and raising their children. This allowed Cohan to dedicate himself almost entirely to his creative pursuits, knowing he had a stable and supportive home base. Her quiet strength and unwavering loyalty were often cited by those close to the family as crucial to Cohan's continued success and well-being. She understood the eccentricities of a creative genius and provided the necessary balance to his often chaotic professional existence.

Supporting the Legend

Agnes Nolan's contribution to George M. Cohan's life was profound, though less visible than Ethel Levey's. She was the anchor, the quiet force that enabled Cohan to remain prolific and grounded. While he was out "owning Broadway," she was managing their home, raising their children, and providing the emotional support he needed. Her presence allowed him the freedom to create, knowing that his personal life was in capable hands. This steady partnership endured through the peaks of his career, the challenges of the Great Depression, and the onset of World War II, until his passing in 1942.

Historians often highlight that Agnes's calm demeanor and practical approach contrasted with Cohan's fiery personality, creating a harmonious domestic environment. She was a confidante and a partner in the truest sense, even if her contributions weren't celebrated on stage. Her dedication to family life provided Cohan with the stability that many artists crave but few achieve, allowing him to focus his immense energy on his craft. This second marriage, therefore, was not just a personal union but a foundational element of his continued artistic output.

The Influence of His Wives on Cohan's Work

While George M. Cohan's creative genius was undeniably his own, the women in his life, particularly George M. Cohan's wife Ethel Levey and later Agnes Nolan, likely influenced his work in subtle yet significant ways. Ethel Levey, as a fellow performer, offered a direct professional collaboration. Her stage presence and understanding of vaudeville and musical theater surely informed Cohan's writing and direction in their early shows. The dynamic interplay between them on stage might have inspired certain characterizations or comedic timing in his scripts.

Agnes Nolan's influence was more indirect but equally vital. By providing a stable home life and raising their children, she freed Cohan from many domestic concerns, allowing him to fully immerse himself in his creative endeavors. The themes of family, home, and enduring love that sometimes surfaced in his later works might have been subtly inspired by the domestic tranquility Agnes provided. While Cohan was known for his patriotic and often boisterous style, the quiet support of his second wife likely contributed to his sustained productivity and emotional well-being, which in turn fueled his artistic output.

It's also worth considering the emotional landscapes of his relationships. The passion and eventual dissolution of his marriage to Ethel Levey, followed by the steady companionship with Agnes Nolan, could have informed the emotional depth, or lack thereof, in certain songs or dramatic moments within his plays. Artists often draw from their personal experiences, and Cohan, despite his public persona, was no exception. The joys, challenges, and evolving nature of his relationships with both women undoubtedly seeped into the fabric of his creative world, even if not explicitly acknowledged.

Beyond the Footlights: Their Lives Post-Cohan

The lives of George M. Cohan's wives did not end with their respective relationships with him. Ethel Levey continued to have a distinguished career in theater. After her divorce from Cohan, she remained a popular performer, appearing in numerous Broadway shows and vaudeville acts. She even found success in London's West End, showcasing her versatility and enduring talent. Levey's ability to thrive independently of Cohan speaks volumes about her own artistic merit and resilience. She carved out her own legacy, distinct from her famous ex-husband, proving herself a formidable force in American entertainment.

Agnes Nolan, on the other hand, lived a more private life after Cohan's passing in 1942. She dedicated herself to preserving his legacy and raising their children. While she didn't pursue a public career, her role in maintaining the Cohan family and ensuring his memory was honored was invaluable. She outlived Cohan by several decades, witnessing the continued appreciation for his work and the growth of their children. Her life exemplified a quiet strength and unwavering commitment to family, a stark contrast to the flamboyant public life of her husband.

Both women, in their own ways, navigated the complexities of being connected to such a colossal figure. Levey did so by continuing her own vibrant career, proving her individual prowess. Nolan did so by becoming the steadfast guardian of Cohan's private world and memory. Their post-Cohan lives illustrate the diverse paths women took in that era, whether through independent professional pursuits or dedicated domestic roles, each contributing significantly to the social and cultural fabric of their time.

Legacy and Remembrance

George M. Cohan's legacy as "The Man Who Owned Broadway" is firmly established, celebrated in countless biographies, musicals, and films, most notably "Yankee Doodle Dandy" starring James Cagney. Yet, the roles of George M. Cohan's wives, Ethel Levey and Agnes Nolan, in shaping that legacy are often understated.

Ethel Levey is remembered as the talented performer who shared Cohan's early rise to stardom, a vibrant stage presence who helped define the look and feel of his initial Broadway successes. Her contributions were direct and visible, a theatrical partnership that captivated audiences. Her own enduring career after their divorce further solidified her place as a significant figure in American theater history.

Agnes Nolan, while less visible in the public eye, is remembered as the steadfast partner who provided the stability and domestic foundation necessary for Cohan's sustained creativity. She was the quiet strength behind the boisterous showman, ensuring his private life was orderly so his public life could flourish. Her legacy lies in the family they built and the quiet support she offered, allowing Cohan to achieve his monumental artistic output.

Together, the stories of Ethel Levey and Agnes Nolan offer a more nuanced understanding of George M. Cohan. They remind us that even the most iconic figures are shaped by their personal relationships. Their lives, though distinct, were both integral to the narrative of one of America's most beloved entertainers. Their individual strengths and contributions, whether on stage or in the home, played a crucial part in the making of the legend that was George M. Cohan.

Understanding the personal lives of historical figures like George M. Cohan enriches our appreciation for their public achievements. The stories of his wives, Ethel Levey and Agnes Nolan, provide a vital human dimension to the celebrated showman, reminding us that behind every grand production and patriotic anthem, there were real lives, real relationships, and real influences at play. Their legacies, intertwined with his, deserve to be remembered and understood.

If you found this exploration into the personal life of George M. Cohan insightful, consider delving deeper into the history of Broadway or the lives of other iconic figures from that golden age. Share your thoughts in the comments below – what aspect of George M. Cohan's life or work fascinates you the most?

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