Born: 10 May 1899 · Died: 22 June 1987 · Age at death: 88
How old was Fred Astaire when he died?
Fred Astaire died aged 88. He was born on 10 May 1899 and died on 22 June 1987.
Legendary American dancer and actor known for his musical films
Did you know?His first screen test reportedly received a critique stating that he could not act or sing and was only able to dance a little.
Quick facts
Date of birth10 May 1899
Date of death22 June 1987
Age at death88
Cause of deathPneumonia
NationalityAmerican
BirthplaceOmaha, United States
Occupationfilm actor, choreographer, singer
Editor's Take:
Fred Astaire made the hardest dancing look effortless. He rehearsed for weeks to make a routine seem spontaneous. He changed how dance was filmed by insisting on long takes and full-body shots, so audiences saw every step. With Ginger Rogers he created a series of musicals that lifted Depression-era audiences. Dancers from Gene Kelly to Michael Jackson admired him. His style remains a benchmark for elegance on screen. Even his walk across a room looked like choreography.
Key Milestones
1917: Makes his Broadway debut with his sister Adele
1933: First pairs with Ginger Rogers
1935: Stars in Top Hat
1950: Receives an honorary Oscar
Fred Astaire (born Frederick Austerlitz; May 10, 1899 – June 22, 1987) was an American dancer, actor, singer, musician, choreographer, and presenter, whose career in stage, film, and television spanned 76 years. He is widely regarded as the "greatest popular-music dancer of all time".
