Danny Kaye (1911–87,) born David Daniel Kaminsky, was an American actor, comedian, singer, and dancer celebrated for his energetic performances and lightning-fast comedic delivery. His knack for musical patter, combined with natural charm and versatility, made him a cherished entertainer.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, to Ukrainian Jewish immigrants, Kaye entertained classmates with jokes and songs before touring as a singer and dancer in the 1930s. He made his film début in Dime a Dance (1937) and later performed onstage in New York.
Kaye’s first feature film, Up in Arms (1943,) launched his Hollywood career. His notable films include Wonder Man (1945,) The Kid from Brooklyn (1946,) The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (1947,) The Inspector General (1949,) Hans Christian Andersen (1952,) White Christmas (1954,) and The Court Jester (1955.) Many featured songs written by his wife, Sylvia Fine.
Beyond entertainment, Kaye served as UNICEF’s first ambassador-at-large (1954) and was awarded the French Legion of Honour (1986.) His published works include Danny Kaye’s Stories from Around the World (1960) and The Kid from Brooklyn: The Life and Times of Danny Kaye (1994.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Danny Kaye
Life is a great big canvas, and you should throw all the paint you can on it.
—Danny Kaye
Topics: Living Well, Life, Art, Living
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