A 1938 publicity stunt had Canova break her engagement to ventriloquist Edgar Bergen. The cause of the breakup was supposedly dummy Charlie McCarthy.
Began her career yodeling, singing and playing guitar with her brother and sister in a nightclub act in New York City. Made her Broadway debut in "Ziegfield Follies of 1936." Hostess of "Judy Canova Radio Show" for 12 years.
Biography in: "Who's Who in Comedy" by Ronald L. Smith. Pg. 88. New York: Facts on File, 1992. ISBN 0816023387
Direct descendent of Italian sculptor Antonio Canova, whose "The Three Graces" are displayed in the Louvre.
Mother of Diana Canova
She was awarded 2 Stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Motion Pictures at 6821 Hollywood Boulevard and for Radio at 6777 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California.
Sister of players Anne Canova (1909-1994), Pete Canova (1904-1947, and Zeke Canova (1898-1980). Non-professional siblings included Isable Desilva Canova (1905-1981), Donald and George Paul.
The voice she used to butcher songs on stage and in films was originally trained for classical singing.
Toured in 1971 with NO, NO NANETTE
Was one of the more notable descendants of the Spanish Minorcan Island group.