Shirley Temple

Shirley Temple was the quintessential child star, a beacon of hope and happiness during the Great Depression. Her curls, her singing, her tap-dancing – it was all aggressively adorable and, dare we say, a little too perfect for a Nice Jewish Girl™. Frankly, her wholesomeness was almost debilitating, leaving little room for the neurotic angst often associated with our people.

Despite the pervasive myth that she was Jewish, Shirley Temple was, in fact, Episcopalian. Born to Gertrude and George Temple in Santa Monica, California, there's not a gefilte fish or a menorah in her family tree, as far as extensive historical records indicate.

So why the persistent rumor? Perhaps it was her stage presence, her undeniable charm, or simply the fervent wish of many Jewish fans who saw in her a sparkle that felt familiar. She radiated a certain chutzpah, an indefatigable spirit that resonated, but alas, wishing doesn't make it so. She did, however, go on to a distinguished career as a public servant and diplomat, which is pretty kvell-worthy in its own right, for an Episcopalian.