Dorothy Stratten

Dorothy Stratten was a Canadian model and actress born Dorothy Ruth Hoogstraten in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Dorothy Stratten was a Canadian model and actress born Dorothy Ruth Hoogstraten in Vancouver, British Columbia. She became known for her work with Playboy, including being named Playmate of the Month for August 1979 and Playmate of the Year in 1980, making her the first Canadian to receive the title. She was murdered in Los Angeles at age 20 by her estranged husband and manager, Paul Snider.

Early life

Dorothy Stratten was born Dorothy Ruth Hoogstraten in Vancouver, British Columbia, in 1960. Available sources describe her as a Canadian model who later moved into acting.

Modeling career

Stratten gained public attention through Playboy, first as Playmate of the Month for August 1979 and later as Playmate of the Year in 1980. Her Playboy success made her one of the most recognizable Canadian models of her era.

Acting career

After entering entertainment, Stratten appeared in several comedy films and television productions, including Skatetown U.S.A., Americathon, and Galaxina. Her acting career was still developing at the time of her death.

Death and legacy

Stratten was murdered in West Los Angeles in August 1980 by Paul Snider, her estranged husband and manager, who then died by suicide. Her death attracted major media attention and inspired later books, films, and television dramatizations.