Ruby came from an Irish family, whose parents were accomplished Ballroom dancers themselves, with Ruby being the second of three children. Ruby went to a professional children's school as a child. Keeler became a talented Tap dancer though not really graceful, continued thru her mother's support. Later when Ruby was 12, her family enrolled her in the 'Jack Blue School of Rhythm and Taps' and by the age of thirteen was a chorus girl in 'The Rise of Rosie O'Reilly' and shortly after a dancer in Texas Guinan's nightclub.

    A Canadian-born chorus girl who hoofed in Broadway shows for several years before marrying entertainer Al Jolson in 1928, made her screen debut at her husband's home studio. Al Jolson first met Keeler at Texas Guinan's nightclub in New York. Jolson and Keeler were also wed in 1928.