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Denny KayeAmerican actor, singer and comedian.
Date of Birth: 18.01.1913
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Career
- Rise to Stardom
- Film and Television Success
- International Humanitarian Work
- Legacy
Early Life and Career
Daniel David Kaminsky, known professionally as Danny Kaye, was born in Brooklyn, New York, on January 18, 1913. His parents, Jacob and Clara Kaminsky, were Jewish immigrants from the Russian Empire. Kaye's cousin was actress Ida Kaminska. He dropped out of school at age 13 and began working in the Catskill Mountains "Borscht Belt," a network of resort hotels.
Rise to Stardom
In 1933, Kaye joined the dance team of Dave Harvey and Kathleen Young. During his debut performance, he lost his balance, eliciting laughter from the audience. This mishap became the catalyst for his future comic persona. Kaye made his acting debut in the short comedy film "Moon Over Manhattan" in 1935. After starring in the Broadway musical "Lady in the Dark" in 1941, he became a Broadway star.
Film and Television Success
Kaye's first feature film role was in the 1944 comedy "Up in Arms." He followed with roles in films such as "Wonder Man" (1945), "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" (1947), "Hans Christian Andersen" (1952), and "White Christmas" (1954). He won two Golden Globe Awards for Best Actor in a Comedy or Musical for his performances in "On the Riviera" (1951) and "Me and the Colonel" (1959). From 1963 to 1967, he hosted his own television series, "The Danny Kaye Show."
International Humanitarian Work
Kaye served as a goodwill ambassador for UNICEF on numerous occasions. He died of a heart attack on March 3, 1987. He was survived by his wife, Sylvia Fine, and daughter, Dena.
Legacy
Danny Kaye has three stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame: for his contributions to motion pictures (6563), radio (6100), and music (6800). His philanthropic work and charitable contributions have left an enduring legacy.
