Fred Astaire

Lore & Background

His mother dreamed of escaping Omaha through her children's talents, and Fred's older sister Adele was an instinctive dancer and singer. The family moved to New York City in January 1905 to launch the children's show business careers, and their mother suggested changing the surname to Astaire. Fred and Adele debuted in vaudeville in November 1905, and by age 14 Fred had assumed musical responsibilities for their act.

Did You Know?

• Fred Astaire was born Frederick Austerlitz; his mother suggested the name change because she felt Austerlitz was reminiscent of the Battle of Austerlitz.
• Astaire's first act with his sister Adele was called 'Juvenile Artists Presenting an Electric Musical Toe-Dancing Novelty'; he wore a top hat and tails in the first half and a lobster outfit in the second.