Fred Astaire Jr. has carved a distinctive niche for himself in the world of arts and entertainment, building on and expanding the legacy of his legendary father, Fred Astaire. This blog post delves into the fascinating life and career of Fred Astaire Jr., exploring his age, early life, family background, and relationship with his father.
Who is Fred Astaire Jr.?
Fred Astaire Jr. was born on January 21, 1936, to the legendary entertainer Fred Astaire and his first wife, socialite Phyllis Potter. Growing up the son of a Hollywood icon, young Fred was immersed in the glitz and glamour of show business from an early age.
But Fred Jr. was destined to be more than just the son of a star. He inherited his father’s debonair good looks, fancy footwork, and undeniable stage presence. Fred studied dance and theatre, honing his craft to become a talented performer in his own right.
In 1969, Fred Jr. made his big screen debut in the British crime drama “Midas Run”. His dashing performance won rave reviews and established him as a captivating leading man. The film showcased Fred’s acting chops and natural charisma, proving he was a chip off the old block.
Though Fred Astaire cast a long shadow, his son managed to step out and make a name for himself. With classic good looks, dancing skills, and acting talent, Fred Astaire Jr. charmed audiences and carried on the family’s entertainment legacy.
Early Life and Family Background
Fred Astaire Jr.’s early life was imbued with the rhythm of dance and the allure of the entertainment industry. His mother, Phyllis Potter, played a significant role in ensuring he received a well-rounded education and had interests outside of entertainment.
This diverse upbringing fostered resilience, creativity, and the courage to step out of his father’s shadow in Astaire Jr. He learned to appreciate the legacy he inherited while also forging his path, a balancing act that has defined much of his career.
Relationship with His Father, Fred Astaire
Being the son of the legendary Fred Astaire was both a blessing and a challenge. While he inherited a rich legacy, he also had to contend with the pressure of living up to his father’s name. However, Astaire Jr. managed to navigate this unique situation with grace, using it as an opportunity to innovate and add flair to his performances.
Astaire Jr.’s relationship with his father was a source of inspiration and wisdom. He absorbed his father’s dedication to the craft, and it was this dedication that allowed him to revive and preserve classic Astaire dances and make notable contributions to the arts and entertainment industry.
Beyond his career as a performer, Astaire Jr. became a vocal advocate for the arts, supporting initiatives promoting arts education, and extending the Astaire legacy into realms of mentorship and philanthropy.
Career as a Charter Pilot and Rancher
Choosing a different path from his iconic screen legend father, Fred Astaire, Fred Astaire Jr. found his place in the world of aviation and ranching. As a young man, Fred Jr. developed a deep fascination for the skies. This fascination led him to become a charter pilot, a career that was as thrilling as it was challenging. His passion for flight was so intense that it became his chosen profession, and he flew countless missions, delivering cargo and passengers safely to their destinations.
Away from the cockpit, Astaire Jr. found solace in the rugged outdoors. He was a rancher at heart, owning vast acres of land where he raised cattle. His love for animals was evident in the care and attention he gave to his livestock. He took pride in managing his ranch, ensuring that his cattle were well-fed and healthy. This life, so different from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, provided him the peace and contentment he sought.
Behind the bright lights and glamorous film roles, Fred Astaire Jr. led a fascinating personal life. In 1962, the dashing dancer married the beautiful actress Denise Cowan in a lavish ceremony. The couple were the talk of the town, with their Hollywood good looks and undeniable chemistry.
Fred and Denise welcomed two children together, a son and a daughter. Fred relished his role as a father, doting on his kids and teaching them the joys of singing and dancing. Even with his busy acting career, Fred always made time for his family.
But as is common in show business, Fred’s marriage to Denise ultimately ended in divorce. The split was amicable and the pair remained devoted co-parents to their children. They proved even Hollywood royalty deals with the same family struggles as everyone else.
In his later years, Fred found love again with his second wife, Gail Saunders. The happy couple enjoyed a quiet life out of the spotlight, savouring time with their grandchildren and each other. Fred discovered you’re never too old to dance through life with the right partner.
Though his personal life saw ups and downs, Fred faced it all with the unshakable poise and grace he inherited from his legendary father. No matter what challenges came his way, Fred met them with a debonair smile and a spring in his step.
Siblings – Ava Astaire-McKenzie
Fred Astaire Jr. wasn’t the only child of the famous Fred Astaire. In 1942, the elder Fred welcomed a daughter, Ava, with his second wife Phyllis. Named after the iconic actress Ava Gardner, Ava Astaire-McKenzie grew up to be a stunning beauty in her own right.
Though she never pursued a career in entertainment like her father and brother, Ava certainly inherited the Astaire charm and good looks. With her vivacious personality and keen intelligence, she navigated the social scene with ease.
In 1972, Ava married Richard McKenzie in a beautiful ceremony in her father’s backyard. The reception was like a scene from an Astaire musical, with the father-daughter duo taking to the dance floor to the delight of the guests. Fred cherished his little girl and their special bond.
Ava and Richard went on to have two daughters, adding to the growing Astaire family tree. Ava dedicated herself to philanthropy, supporting arts education and wildlife conservation. She used her platform to make the world a little better.
Though they pursued different paths, Ava and Fred Jr. remained close throughout their lives. United by their unique upbringing and love for their famous father, the siblings shared an unbreakable bond. They were each other’s greatest supporters and confidantes.
Ava’s elegance, kindness, and zest for life made her a beloved figure to all who knew her. Much more than just Fred Astaire’s daughter, Ava shone as a bright light in her own right. Her legacy, like that of her father and brother, will endure.
Legacy
Fred Astaire Jr.’s legacy is a testament to his unique life, marked by his achievements in aviation and ranching. Despite being born into a family of entertainers, he chose to tread his path, one that was less glamorous but equally fulfilling. His dedication to his work and family is admired by many, serving as a beacon of inspiration for those who dare to step away from the expected.
Final Thoughts!
In conclusion, Fred Astaire Jr.’s life is a compelling narrative of a man who chose his destiny. He was a man of many talents, a devoted family man, and a committed professional who never shied away from hard work. His life, a blend of high-flying adventures and serene ranch life, is a testament to the power of individuality and the importance of pursuing one’s passions.
