Sandahl Bergman is an accomplished American dancer and actress whose career spans both Broadway and Hollywood. She gained significant recognition for her dance-focused theatrical performances and her memorable role alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger in “Conan the Barbarian.”
Biography Table
Full Name | Sandahl Bergman |
---|---|
Profession | Stage Actress/Dancer |
Date of Birth | November 14, 1951 |
Birth Sign | Scorpio |
Birthplace | Missouri |
Nationality | American |
Age (2025) | 73 |
Net Worth (2025) | $2.5 Million |
Height | 5’9" (175 cm) |
Early Life & Background
Sandahl Bergman was born on November 14, 1951, in Kansas City, Missouri. Details about her parents and early childhood remain relatively private, though it’s known she was raised in the Midwest. She attended high school in Prairie Village, Kansas, where she likely began developing her dancing skills. Her tall, athletic build and natural grace would eventually serve her well in her dance career.
Career Journey
Bergman’s professional journey began in the world of dance. She moved to New York to pursue her dancing career, and by the early 1970s, she had secured a regular spot on “The Dean Martin Comedy World,” appearing in fifty episodes of this popular NBC variety show. This exposure helped establish her presence in the entertainment industry.
Her breakthrough in theater came through her collaborations with legendary choreographer Bob Fosse, who recognized her exceptional talent. Fosse cast Bergman in “Dancin’,” a Tony Award-winning musical revue that premiered in 1978 and showcased her abilities to their fullest.
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Broadway Success
Bergman’s Broadway career flourished with performances in several acclaimed productions. She danced in major musicals including “Pippin,” “Gigi,” “A Chorus Line,” and “Mack & Mabel.” Her dynamic stage presence and exceptional dance skills made her a standout performer in these productions, establishing her reputation as one of Broadway’s premier dancers.
Transition to Film
While maintaining her theater career, Bergman began transitioning to film in the late 1970s and early 1980s. She appeared in the 1980 musical fantasy film “Xanadu,” which, despite its commercial disappointment, has since gained cult status. However, her most significant film breakthrough came with her role as Valeria in “Conan the Barbarian” (1982), starring alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Hollywood Recognition
Her performance in “Conan the Barbarian” earned Bergman a Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year, demonstrating her successful transition from stage to screen. This role showcased not only her physical abilities but also her acting talent, proving she was more than just a dancer. She continued to appear in films throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including “Red Sonja” and “Hell Comes to Frogtown.”
Personal Life
Regarding her personal life, Bergman was previously married to Josh Taylor, though the marriage ended in divorce. Details about the length of their relationship or any children are not widely documented, as Bergman has generally maintained privacy regarding her personal affairs.
Net Worth & Financial Success
As of 2025, Sandahl Bergman’s net worth is estimated at approximately $2.5 million. Her wealth comes from her extensive career in both theater and film. While not among Hollywood’s highest earners, her consistent work across multiple entertainment mediums has provided her with financial stability throughout her career.
Physical Attributes
Standing at approximately 5’9" (175 cm), Bergman’s tall, athletic build served her well in both her dance career and her action film roles. Her striking appearance and physical capabilities were particularly noteworthy in “Conan the Barbarian,” where she performed many of her own stunts.
Notable Facts & Trivia
An interesting fact about Bergman is that she performed her own stunts in “Conan the Barbarian,” demonstrating her athletic prowess and commitment to her craft. This dedication to physical performance set her apart from many actresses of her time and earned her respect in the industry.
Legacy
Sandahl Bergman represents a unique crossover success between the worlds of dance and film. Her ability to excel in both theatrical productions and action films showcases her versatility as a performer. Though she may not be a household name, her contributions to dance and her memorable film roles have secured her place in entertainment history.
FAQ
What award did Sandahl Bergman win for “Conan the Barbarian”? Sandahl Bergman won the Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year for her role as Valeria in “Conan the Barbarian.”
Did Sandahl Bergman work with any famous choreographers? Yes, she worked with renowned choreographer Bob Fosse, who cast her in his Tony Award-winning musical revue “Dancin’” in 1978.
What was Sandahl Bergman’s background before becoming an actress? Before her acting career, Bergman was primarily a dancer who performed on Broadway in shows like “Pippin,” “Gigi,” and “A Chorus Line.”