The Actress Began As A Nightclub Backup Singer And Dancer
Canadian-born Parkins traveled to Los Angeles at the age of 16 with hopes of becoming famous. She began her career as a backup singer and dancer for some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry. She made her film debut in 20,000 Eyes, a low-budget crime film, in 1961.
The Valley of the Dolls film adaptation was one of her biggest roles. She was nominated in 1966 for an Emmy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her work on the show, which she completed throughout its duration.