Danny Kaye was an American actor who is best known for his roles in “The Court Jester,” “White Christmas,” and “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.”
Personal and Family Life
Danny Kaye was born as David Daniel Kaminski on January 18, 1911, in Brooklyn, New York City. He married Sylvia Fine on January 3, 1940, who later became his manager and collaborated on many of his performances. They had one child together, Dena Kaye. Kaye’s vibrant personality was complemented by his trademark red hair and extraordinary ability to perform tongue-twisters.
Career Highlights
Kaye left school at 13 to work in the Borscht Belt, honing his skills in show business. He made his Broadway debut in 1939 and gained fame with the musical “Lady in the Dark.” In 1944, he transitioned to film with “Up in Arms,” leading to a successful career in movies during the 1940s and 1950s, including classics like “The Court Jester” and “White Christmas.” Later, he found success in television with “The Danny Kaye Show,” which aired from 1963 to 1967.
Death and Legacy
Danny Kaye passed away on March 3, 1987, in Los Angeles, California, due to heart failure. He is remembered not only for his comedic talent but also for his humanitarian work with UNICEF. Kaye’s legacy continues through his films and television appearances, securing his place as a beloved entertainer.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Court Jester | 1955-12-24 | Hubert Hawkins |
| White Christmas | 1954-10-14 | Phil Davis |
| The Secret Life of Walter Mitty | 1947-09-01 | Walter Mitty |
| Up in Arms | 1944-02-17 | Danny Weems |
| The Inspector General | 1949-12-31 | Georgi |
| The Five Pennies | 1959-06-18 | Red Nichols |
| Skokie | 1981-11-17 | Max Feldman |
| The Cosby Show | 1984-09-20 | Dr. Burns |
| The Muppet Show | 1976-09-05 | Self – Special Guest Star |
| The Danny Kaye Show | 1963-09-25 | Self – Host |