Fred Astaire, born Frederick Austerlitz on May 10, 1899, in Omaha, Nebraska, was an American dancer, singer, actor, and choreographer.
He entered the world of show business at the tender age of five and went on to achieve immense success in vaudeville, on Broadway, and in London's West End alongside his sister Adele, with whom he formed a partnership that lasted an impressive 27 years.
After Adele's retirement in 1932, Astaire made the transition to Hollywood, signing with RKO and appearing in Dancing Lady (1933) before working on RKO's Flying Down to Rio (1933),where he was teamed with the legendary Ginger Rogers, with whom he collaborated on nine RKO pictures.
Throughout his illustrious career, Astaire worked with a diverse range of partners, including Cyd Charisse, Rita Hayworth, Vera-Ellen, and Barrie Chase, and continued to appear in musicals until 1968, as well as taking on straight dramatic roles in film and television.
In addition to his work on screen, Astaire was also active in recording and radio, showcasing his talents in a multitude of mediums.
Sadly, Astaire passed away on June 22, 1987, in Los Angeles, due to complications from pneumonia, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
Adele Astaire, Fred Astaire's sister, was born Adele Austerlitz on September 10, 1896, in Omaha, Nebraska. She began her career as a dancer and singer, performing with her brother Fred in vaudeville and on Broadway. The two siblings formed a partnership that lasted 27 years, during which they wowed audiences with their charming and captivating performances. Adele retired from show business in 1932 to marry and settle down, leaving Fred to pursue a successful solo career in Hollywood.