Fred Astaire

Astaire, Fred (Frederick Austerlitz; 1899–1988), U.S. dancer, choreographer, and actor. First in partnership onstage with his sister Adele and later with Ginger Rogers in such films as Top Hat (1935) and Swing Time (1936), he became one of the most popular dancers and musical comedy stars, renowned for his originality and perfection. Later films, with other partners, included Holiday Inn (1942), The Band Wagon (1953), and Funny Face (1957).