Fred Astaire's Finest Performances: Commemorating His Legacy

On the 125th anniversary of Fred Astaire's birth, and with a Tom Holland biopic in the pipeline, we look back at the Hollywood legend's most notable performances over his prolific eight-decade career.

  1. Top Hat (1935): Showcasing Astaire's elegance, this film is a classic example of his collaboration with Ginger Rogers, featuring timeless footwork and chemistry.

  2. The Band Wagon (1953): Astaire shines solo in this MGM musical, especially in numbers like Dancing in the Dark and The Girl Hunt Ballet with Cyd Charisse.

  3. Swing Time (1936): Known for the spectacular finale and comedic and romantic highlights, this film was Astaire's favorite with Rogers.

  4. Silk Stockings (1957): With Cyd Charisse again, this musical marks a high point with numbers like The Ritz Roll and Rock.

  5. Easter Parade (1948): Astaire came out of retirement to star with Judy Garland in this Berlin show-tune-packed MGM musical.

  6. Shall We Dance (1937): A variety of dance styles and spoofs make this Fred’n’Ginger film notable, especially for its jazz tribute Slap That Bass.

  7. Broadway Melody of 1940 (1940): Astaire's dance with Eleanor Powell to Begin the Beguine is hypnotic.

  8. Follow the Fleet (1936): Features the celebrated Let’s Face the Music and Dance routine, demonstrating perfect symmetry in dance.

  9. You Were Never Lovelier (1942): The best of Astaire’s collaborations with Rita Hayworth, featuring high-speed routines like Shorty George.

  10. Three Little Words (1950): Astaire's energetic performance with Vera-Ellen highlights this biopic of Tin Pan Alley songwriters.

Astaire's versatility and charm span numerous genres beyond dance musicals. Highlights include:

  • The Towering Inferno (1974): Earning an Oscar nomination, Astaire plays a conman in this disaster movie.
  • The Notorious Landlady (1962): Astaire shines in a comedy-drama role, bringing old-school sophistication.
  • On the Beach (1959): Astaire departs from his usual persona, portraying a scientist wrestling with guilt in a post-apocalyptic setting.

Fred Astaire's influence on Hollywood and dance remains unparalleled, as reflected in these memorable performances.