Born on August 16, 1951, in Los Angeles, California, Nia Novella Travilla had many talents and a varied background. Daughter of the renowned costume designer William Travilla and actress/singer Dona Drake, Nia managed to create her own path as a respected veterinarian. This article delves into her early life, education, career, and more.
Early Life/Family Background
Nia Novella Travilla grew up in a family deeply rooted in entertainment. Her father was Oscar-winning costume designer William Travilla, who worked with Marilyn Monroe. Her mother, Dona Drake, was an actress and singer who often played ethnic roles in Hollywood. With such a vibrant upbringing, Nia was exposed to Hollywood early on.
Educational Background
Nia took a different path despite her family’s fame. She attended local Los Angeles schools and later Northern California schools. She studied veterinary medicine because she loved animals. Nia studied animal welfare and became a vet.
Career
Nia was a compassionate vet. She became a respected local vet known for her skill and gentle manner with animals. Nia also bred Schnauzers. Her career was a testament to her desire to help animals and their owners.
Rise to Fame
Although Nia never sought the spotlight herself, her family background often put her in the public spotlight. Because of her father’s reputation as a costume designer and her mother’s acting career Nia was often mentioned in Hollywood circles. But she concentrated on her veterinary practice, gaining recognition for her work rather than her family’s legacy.
Marital Life
On June 26, 1971, Nia married Jose L. Ariza, when she was just 19 years old. Their marriage was brief and they divorced in May 1973. Despite personal struggles, Nia continued to focus on her work and her love animals.
Public Appearances
Although Nia preferred a quiet life, she made occasional public appearances – often in connection with her parents’ legacies.
Controversies/Scandals
Nia had relatively no public controversies or scandals in her life. Her profile was low – she concentrated on her career and her private life. Her devotion to work and private life kept her out of Hollywood gossip and scandals.
Net Worth
Nia’s net worth was modest. While she might not have amassed much wealth, her contributions to veterinary medicine and animal welfare were invaluable.
Her Father, William Travilla
Nia’s father William Travilla was a Hollywood costume designer. Born on March 22, 1920, Travilla designed some of Marilyn Monroe’s most iconic outfits – including her white dress from “The Seven Year Itch.” His talent and creativity earned him an Oscar and an influential career in the film industry. Travilla remains an influence on fashion and costume design and his work continues to be celebrated.
Her Mother, Dona Drake
Eunice Westmoreland, better known as Dona Drake, was an actress and singer of the 1930s and 1940s. Often given ethnic roles, Drake came across as Mexican despite her African American heritage. She led a touring all-girl orchestra and appeared in many films. Drake’s career was a mix of talent and the struggles of navigating Hollywood’s racial dynamics at the time.
