Long before becoming a household name, Tommy Steele grew up poor in World War IIera London, finding escape in his cherished big band records. After honing his singing and guitar skills, Steele catapulted to stardom almost overnight. With hits like "Singing the Blues," the teen heartthrob cemented his place in British pop culture history.

▬Contents of this video▬
00:00 Intro
00:19 Tommy's Rise to Fame and Marriage to Ann
02:14 Overcoming Childhood Illness
04:14 Enduring Popularity on Stage and Screen
06:15 Staying Strong Through the Decades
07:30 Outro

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This dizzying fame could have doomed many young stars. However, Steele found an anchor in Ann Donoghue, a humble dancer he met in a bustling Soho coffee bar. Drawn to each other's kindness and talent, their romance blossomed. At their fairy tale wedding in 1960, ecstatic crowds cheered on the beaming newlyweds as they emerged joyfully from the church to start their new life together.
At just 10 years old, Tommy contracted a battery of agonizing illnesses that nearly killed him. Undiagnosed porphyria blistered his skin and robbed him of sunlight for years. Bedridden in the hospital, Tommy felt imprisoned in his own body, fearing he'd never escape.

But Annie's quiet strength gave Tommy the will to persevere. Her steadfast care helped him find purpose again in music. Though the cure was uncertain, Tommy resolved not to let his condition define him. Through rigorous selfcare, he overcame the odds to live his dreams.

Tommy took the leap into theater, originating the lead role in Half a Sixpence in London's West End. With Annie cheering him on, Tommy triumphed on Broadway too, proving his entertainer appeal had no bounds. Decades later, Tommy continues creating new stage shows and memoirs, his popularity as strong as ever.

Now in their twilight years, Tommy and Ann's sixdecade marriage withstands the tests of health struggles and fame. Their loyalty and humor keep their bond unbreakable. Still each other's biggest cheerleaders, the couple continues inspiring those around them with their lasting love.

Tommy Steele Is 86 Years Old and His Wife Still Stands by Him