As one of the most talked-about figures, Fred Astaire has built a significant fortune. In this article, we dive deep into the assets and career highlights.
What Was Fred Astaire's Net Worth?
Fred Astaire was an American dancer, choreographer, musician, singer, and actor who had a net worth of $10 million at the time of his death in 1987. That's the same as around $30 million in today's dollars. Fred Astaire's career lasted over 70 years, during which time he made 31 musical films and many award-winning television specials and recordings. Astaire was named the 5th Greatest Male Star of All Time by the American Film Institute.
A multi-talented star who graced the stage and screen with the likes ofJoan Crawford,Judy Garland, andAudrey Hepburn, he was perhaps best known for being the frequent dancing partner and on-screen romantic interest ofGinger Rogers. The pair co-starred in 10 Hollywood musicals together.Gene Kellysaid that the "history of dance on film begins with Astaire." Fred won an Honorary Academy Award in 1950 for his unique artistry and his contributions to the technique of musical pictures. He won three Golden Globe Awards, including theCecil B. DeMilleAward, and three Primetime Emmy Awards. In 1960, he received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6756 Hollywood Blvd. Fred Astaire died of pneumonia in Los Angeles, California, on June 22, 1987. He is buried in Oakwood Memorial Park Cemetery in Los Angeles.
Early Life
Frederick Austerlitz was born on May 10, 1899, in Omaha, Nebraska. He was the son of Friedrich Austerlitz and Johanna Geilus. Johanna formed a musical duo with Fred and his older sister,Adele. Fred was not interested in dance lessons but learned to play the piano, clarinet, and accordion. In 1905, after Freidrich lost his job, he moved the family to New York City with the idea of involving the two children in show business. Fred and Adele were enrolled in the Alvieni Master School of the Theatre and Johann suggested they begin using the last name "Astaire." Their first act was named "JuvenileArtists Presenting an Electric Musical Toe-Dancing Novelty." They were soon offered a talent contract to travel around the country and perform their act. Eventually, Fred's parents decided to allow the children a two-year break from performing to prevent the breaking of any child labor laws. When the duo resumed performing, they added tap dancing, waltzing, and the tango to their act.
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Show Business
Fred Astaire and his sister Adele first performed on Broadway in 1917 in "Over the Top." Over the next few years, they would also begin appearing on stages in London. Among the acts they performed together were "The Bunch and Judy" in 1922, "Lady, Be Good" in 1924, and "Funny Face" in 1927. They then attended a screen test in Hollywood, in hopes of being signed to Paramount Pictures but did not get a contract. The duo retired in 1932 when Adele married.
In summary, the total wealth of Fred Astaire reflects strategic moves.
Disclaimer: All net worth figures are estimates based on public data.
