Profile of the Day: Gene Kelly

Remember watching Singin’ in the Rain? On this day in 1912, star Gene Kelly was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Image: Gene Kelly / Wikimedia Commons

Eugene Curran Kelly was born on August 23, 1912 to James Kelly, a phonograph salesman, and Harriet Curran. At the age of 8, his mother enrolled Kelly and his siblings in dance classes. As a young man, he often created dance routines with his brother to earn prize money in local talent contests and perform at night clubs.

Kelly was known as the king of musicals throughout the 40’s and 50’s and was one of Hollywood’s most bankable stars. A gifted dancer, Kelly also choreographed many of his films, including An American in Paris, which received 6 Academy Award nominations. That same year, Kelly received an honorary Oscar for his contribution to film musicals and choreography.

Today, Kelly is remembered as one of the greatest actors of all time.

Explore Gene Kelly’s family tree on Geni and share how you’re connected to the star.

View Gene Kelly’s Geni Profile