Ginger Rogers

Ginger Rogers, born Virginia Katherine McMath on July 16, 1911, was a multifaceted American actress, dancer, and singer who rose to prominence during the Golden Age of Hollywood. Her notable achievements include winning an Academy Award for Best Actress for her leading role in “Kitty Foyle” (1940) and her iconic partnership with Fred Astaire in RKO’s musical films during the 1930s. Beyond the silver screen, Rogers continued to captivate audiences on stage, radio, and television throughout the 20th century.

Originally from Independence, Missouri, Rogers was raised in Kansas City before her family relocated to Fort Worth, Texas, when she was nine. In 1925, she gained attention by winning a Charleston dance contest, marking the beginning of a successful vaudeville career. Rogers transitioned to Broadway and made her stage debut in “Girl Crazy,” leading to a contract with Paramount Pictures. Her initial contract concluded after five films, but she found success as a supporting actress in films like “42nd Street” (1933) and “Gold Diggers of 1933” (1933).

The 1930s marked a significant period for Rogers, particularly with her partnership with Fred Astaire, credited with revolutionizing the musical genre. Their collaboration produced hits like “The Gay Divorcee” (1934), “Top Hat” (1935), and “Swing Time” (1936). Following two commercial failures with Astaire, Rogers diversified her roles, excelling in dramatic and comedic films such as “Stage Door” (1937), “Vivacious Lady” (1938), “Bachelor Mother” (1939), “Primrose Path” (1940), “The Major and the Minor” (1942), and “I’ll Be Seeing You” (1944). Winning an Oscar for “Kitty Foyle” elevated her to one of the top box-office draws and highest-paid actresses of the 1940s.

Rogers continued her success with a reunion with Astaire in “The Barkleys of Broadway” (1949) and starred in the well-received comedy “Monkey Business” (1952) and “Tight Spot” (1955). However, she faced a challenging period in the mid-1950s, prompting a return to Broadway in 1965 with the lead role in “Hello, Dolly!” She took on more Broadway roles and made her stage directorial debut in 1985 with an off-Broadway production of “Babes in Arms.” Rogers remained active in the industry, making television appearances until 1987 and authoring her autobiography, “Ginger: My Story,” in 1991. In 1992, she received recognition at the Kennedy Center Honors. Rogers passed away in 1995 at the age of 83.

Throughout her illustrious career, Rogers appeared in 73 films and holds the 14th position on the AFI’s list of female stars of classic American cinema, showcasing her enduring impact on the entertainment industry.