Full Name: Frederick Austerlitz (Fred Astaire)
Date of Birth: May 10, 1899
Place of Birth: Omaha, Nebraska, USA
Date of Death: June 22, 1987 (aged 88)
Occupation: Dancer, Singer, Actor, Choreographer
Years Active: 1904–1981
Spouse(s): Phyllis Potter (1933–1954), Robyn Smith (1980–1987)
Children: 2
Early Life & Career Beginnings
Fred Astaire was born to Austrian-German immigrant parents in Omaha, Nebraska. His older sister, Adele, was his first dance partner. The siblings trained in ballet, tap, and ballroom dance, making their vaudeville debut as “Astaire & Adele” in 1904.
Their act gained popularity, and they moved to Broadway, starring in hit musicals like Lady, Be Good! (1924) and Funny Face (1927). When Adele retired in 1932, Fred transitioned to Hollywood.
Hollywood Stardom (1933–1949)
Astaire signed with RKO Pictures and was paired with Ginger Rogers, forming one of the most iconic duos in film history. Their first major film, Flying Down to Rio (1933), was a breakthrough. Together, they starred in ten films, including:
- Top Hat (1935)
- Swing Time (1936)
- Shall We Dance (1937)
- The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle (1939)
Astaire revolutionized film musicals by insisting on seamless dance sequences and long takes, showcasing the artistry of dance.
Later Career (1950s–1980s)
In the 1950s, he starred in classics such as:
- Easter Parade (1948, with Judy Garland)
- Royal Wedding (1951)
- The Band Wagon (1953)
- Funny Face (1957, with Audrey Hepburn)
Astaire continued acting in dramatic roles, earning an Academy Award nomination for The Towering Inferno (1974). His final screen appearance was in Ghost Story (1981).
Dancing Style & Influence
Astaire’s style combined tap, ballet, and ballroom, making dance effortless and elegant. His choreography influenced generations of dancers, including Gene Kelly, Michael Jackson, and Broadway performers.
Personal Life
He was married to Phyllis Potter from 1933 until her death in 1954. He later married Robyn Smith, a jockey, in 1980.
Awards & Legacy
- Academy Honorary Award (1950) for his contributions to film
- Kennedy Center Honors (1978)
- Ranked the #5 Greatest Male Screen Legend by AFI
Fred Astaire remains a legendary figure in dance and film. Would you like details on his best dance routines or collaborations?
