Pandora Writer |
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Fred Astaire, an American dancer, singer, and actor, is universally recognized as the "greatest dancer in history." With his innate talent, charm, and impeccable style, he captivated audiences and left his mark on the history of performing arts.
Born on May 10, 1899, in Omaha, Nebraska, Frederick Austerlitz (later known as Fred Astaire) began his journey into the world of dance at a young age. Growing up in a musical family, his passion for dance was nurtured from the start. His sister, Adele, became his first dance partner.
In the 1920s, the Astaire siblings transitioned from Vaudeville to Broadway, achieving remarkable success. Astaire and his sister were in the successful Broadway musical "Lady Be Good" in 1924. Fred quickly gained a reputation for his smooth, inventive dance style and his ability to infuse humor into his performances. The Astaire siblings became Broadway sensations, capturing the hearts of audiences with their charm and flair.
Fred Astaire's journey to Hollywood began in the early 1930s, where he signed a contract with RKO Pictures. However, his first screen test wasn't promising, with studio executives providing less-than-enthusiastic feedback. Despite initial setbacks, Astaire persevered, and fate intervened when he was paired with Ginger Rogers in the film "Flying Down to Rio" in 1933. This partnership would prove to be one of the most successful and enduring in the history of cinema.
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers went on to create a cinematic legacy with their dazzling on-screen chemistry. Their partnership spanned ten films, including classics like "Top Hat" in 1935, "Swing Time" in 1936, and "The Story of Vernon and Irene Castle" in 1939. Their enchanting dance routines and witty banter captivated audiences, making them one of Hollywood's most beloved on-screen couples.
Fred Astaire also showcased his versatility as a performer. He effortlessly transitioned from one genre to another, equally at ease in comedic roles, dramatic performances, and even singing. His velvety voice and smooth vocal styling complemented his dancing, making him a complete package of talent and charisma.
Astaire revolutionized the way dance was portrayed in movies, introducing long takes and full-body shots to showcase the intricacies of his choreography. His innovative use of camera angles and lighting brought a new dynamic to dance sequences, while he introduced new dance forms and techniques.
Astaire's influence can be seen in the evolution of dance throughout the 20th century, as he seamlessly blended traditional ballroom dance with elements of tap and jazz. His distinctive style, characterized by his impeccable footwork and signature top hat and tails, has been emulated by countless dancers and continues to inspire new generations.
Fred Astaire continued to captivate audiences through the decades, even as the golden age of Hollywood gave way to new eras of entertainment. He received numerous accolades, including an American Film Institute Life Achievement Award in 1981.
Beyond his film career, Astaire remained active in various artistic pursuits, including television and stage performances. His influence persists in the work of countless dancers and choreographers who have been inspired by his innovative style and magnetic stage presence.
Fred Astaire was an iconic performer who enchanted audiences with his graceful moves and timeless performances. Whether you are a fan of classic Hollywood films or simply appreciate the beauty of dance, spending time exploring the work of Fred Astaire is a delightful and inspiring experience.
Fred Astaire passed away on June 22, 1987. He died of pneumonia at the age of 88 in Los Angeles, California.
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Did you know?
Astaire's first dance partner was his sister, Adele Astaire. The siblings formed a successful vaudeville act and later transitioned to Broadway.
Fred Astaire was born Frederick Austerlitz. The name Astaire was suggested by his mother, combining parts of his family's original surname, "Austerlitz," with "Astoria," a neighborhood in Queens, New York.
After Astaire's first screen test, the report from the testing director at RKO Pictures is famously said to have read, "Can't act. Can't sing. Balding. Can dance a little." Despite this, Astaire persevered and went on to become one of the greatest entertainers in Hollywood history.
Astaire was known for his perfectionism. He was committed to achieving flawlessness in his dance routines and was willing to rehearse tirelessly until he was satisfied with the result.
"Flying Down to Rio" marks the first collaboration between Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers; the first of their iconic dancing partnership spanning ten films.
In his film, "Dancing Lady" in 1933, he sported his iconic top hat and tails.
He joined ASCAP (American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers) in 1942.
In the film "Royal Wedding" in 1951, there's a famous scene where Astaire dances on the ceiling. To achieve this effect, the entire room rotated while Astaire remained anchored to the floor. It was a groundbreaking use of special effects at the time.
At a height of 5 feet 7 inches, he frequently wore 2-inch heels, a distinctive feature in many of his films, boosting his stature to 5 feet 9 inches. Despite this endeavor, several of his dance partners still towered over him when they opted for high heels. Conflicting reports about his height, ranging from 5 feet 8 inches to 5 feet 10 inches, have sparked friendly debates over the years.
One million dollars covered the insurance for his legs.
Astaire, renowned for his perfectionism as a dancer, seldom found contentment in his performances. Surprisingly, despite being hailed as Hollywood's greatest dancer, he often questioned his suitability for the role.
Together, he and Ginger Rogers starred in a total of 10 films.
Besides being a phenomenal dancer, Astaire was also an accomplished drummer. He displayed his drumming skills in various films and even played the drums in a few of his dance routines.
Astaire was not only a trendsetter in dance but also in fashion. He played a significant role in popularizing the use of neckties as a fashion accessory for men.
Fred Astaire was known for his trademark top hat and tails. In real life, he often wore a top hat as a form of self-expression and style, even off-screen.
Astaire wasn't just a dancer; he also had a successful career as a singer and actor. He received several Primetime Emmy Awards and an Academy Award nomination.
His career spanned 76 years across stage, film, and television.
In his seventies, Astaire adopted skateboarding and received a lifelong membership in the National Skateboard Society.
Astaire had a cameo role in John Lennon and Yoko Ono's film "Imagine" in 1972, guiding Yoko through a doorway.
Astaire is featured on the album cover of The Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band."
He earned his only Oscar nomination for the disaster film, "The Towering Inferno."
He received 49 Honorary Oscars in recognition of his outstanding contributions to dancing and choreography.
He owned Blue Valley Ranch, a Thoroughbred horse breeding farm situated in the San Fernando Valley. He oversaw a racing stable comprising four or five horses that participated in California racetracks.
Astaire maintained close friendships with Randolph Scott, David Niven, Clark Gable, and Gregory Peck.
Astaire had two children: Fred Astaire Jr. and Ava Astaire-McKenzie
On February 8, 1960, he was awarded a Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6756 Hollywood Boulevard in Hollywood, California.
He was laid to rest at Oakwood Memorial Park in Chatsworth, California, alongside his wife, mother, and sister.
“What counts more than luck is determination and perseverance. If the talent is there, it will come through. Don't be too impatient. Stick at it. That's my advice. You have to plug away, keep thinking up new ideas. If one doesn't work, try another.”
― Fred Astaire
