Fred Astaire Net Worth

Introduction

Fred Astaire was an American actor, dancer, singer, and choreographer, who became an icon in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning more than seven decades, Astaire set a high standard of excellence in stage and film performances. He created numerous dance routines that have left an indelible mark on American culture. This article will explore the life, career, net worth, and legacy of this legendary performer.

Net Worth and Salary

Fred Astaire’s net worth at the time of his death in 1987 was estimated to be around $10 million. Astaire amassed a great fortune throughout his career in films and stage performances. He was one of the highest-paid actors in Hollywood during his prime, earning $2,500 per week in the 1930s and a whopping $125,000 per movie in the 1950s.

Early Life and Education

Fred Astaire was born on May 10, 1899, in Omaha, Nebraska, to Johanna and Fritz Austerlitz. His parents were both Austrians who immigrated to the United States. Astaire’s elder sister Adele was also a talented performer, and the siblings began performing in vaudeville shows at an early age. They became famous for their dance routines and eventually made it to Broadway.

As an adult, Astaire went on to study under the renowned choreographer Ned Wayburn, where he honed his skills as a performer and dancer. He also trained in ballroom dance with other partners, which influenced his style of dancing.

Career

Fred Astaire’s career spanned over seven decades, beginning in vaudeville shows and ending with films and television appearances. He became a household name in the early 1930s when he starred in a series of films with actress Ginger Rogers. The duo became known for their impeccable chemistry and dance routines, and their films were highly successful.

Astaire went on to star in numerous other musicals, including “Easter Parade” (1948), “The Band Wagon” (1953), and “Funny Face” (1957), among others. He also appeared in several television shows and hosted several specials on NBC.

Astaire was not just a performer, but also a choreographer and director. He choreographed his own dances as well as those of other performers, including his sister, Adele. He was known for his unique dance style, which incorporated tap, ballroom, and other dance forms, making him a versatile performer.

Personal Life

Fred Astaire was married two times in his life. He first married Phyllis Potter in 1933, with whom he had two children, Fred Jr. and Ava Astaire McKenzie. Phyllis died of lung cancer in 1954. Astaire later remarried Robyn Smith, a jockey and horse trainer. They remained married until Astaire’s death in 1987.

Astaire was also known for his love of horse racing and often participated in races. He also enjoyed painting and had several of his paintings exhibited in art galleries.

Illness and Death

Fred Astaire was diagnosed with pneumonia in 1987 and died shortly after at the age of 88. He was buried at Oakwood Memorial Park Cemetery in California.

Real Estate

Fred Astaire owned several properties throughout his life, including a ranch in California, which he shared with his wife Robyn Smith. He also owned several homes in Beverly Hills, including a Spanish-style villa that he lived in until his death.

Legacy

Fred Astaire’s legacy lives on in the entertainment industry, and his dance routines continue to inspire and influence modern-day performers. He received numerous awards throughout his lifetime, including an Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement, Kennedy Center Honors, and the National Medal of Arts.

Astaire’s influence on dance and choreography is still evident in today’s performances. His dedication to his craft and impeccable talent paved the way for future performers to follow in his footsteps.

FAQs

1. What was Fred Astaire’s signature dance style?

Fred Astaire was known for his unique style that incorporated tap, ballroom, and other dance forms. He was a versatile performer who created his own groundbreaking routines that inspired future generations.

2. How many films did Fred Astaire star in?

Fred Astaire starred in over 30 films throughout his career, including several successful musicals with Ginger Rogers.

3. Was Fred Astaire a trained dancer?

Yes, Fred Astaire was a trained dancer who studied under the renowned choreographer Ned Wayburn. He also trained in ballroom dancing with various partners, which influenced his style of dance.

4. Was Fred Astaire married?

Yes, Fred Astaire was married twice. He first married Phyllis Potter and later remarried Robyn Smith, with whom he remained married until his death.

5. What did Fred Astaire enjoy doing in his free time?

Fred Astaire enjoyed horse racing and often participated in races. He was also an avid painter whose work was exhibited in art galleries.

6. How did Fred Astaire die?

Fred Astaire was diagnosed with pneumonia in 1987 and died shortly after at the age of 88.

7. What awards did Fred Astaire receive?

Fred Astaire received numerous awards throughout his lifetime, including an Academy Award for Lifetime Achievement, Kennedy Center Honors, and the National Medal of Arts.

8. Did Fred Astaire ever choreograph for other performers?

Yes, Fred Astaire was also a choreographer and directed several dance routines for other performers, including his sister Adele.

9. What was Fred Astaire’s estimated net worth at the time of his death?

Fred Astaire’s net worth at the time of his death in 1987 was estimated to be around $10 million.

10. What inspired Fred Astaire’s dance routines?

Fred Astaire’s dance routines were inspired by his dedication to his craft and his desire to create unique and groundbreaking performances.

11. What was Fred Astaire’s relationship with Ginger Rogers?

Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers were known for their onstage chemistry and their successful film collaborations. They remained friends throughout their lives.

12. Was Fred Astaire a versatile performer?

Yes, Fred Astaire was a versatile performer who is known for his unique style that incorporated several dance forms, including tap and ballroom.

13. Where is Fred Astaire buried?

Fred Astaire is buried at the Oakwood Memorial Park Cemetery in California.

14. Did Fred Astaire own any property?

Yes, Fred Astaire owned several properties throughout his life, including a ranch in California and several homes in Beverly Hills.

15. How did Fred Astaire influence dance and choreography?

Fred Astaire’s dedication to his craft and his impeccable talent paved the way for future performers to follow in his footsteps. His influence on dance and choreography is still evident in today’s performances.