Gene Nelson

American dancer, choreographer, actor, singer, screenwriter, and director. Born: March 24, 1920, Astoria, Oregon, USA Died: September 16, 1996, Los Angeles, California, USA He was inspired to become a dancer during his childhood by watching Fred Astaire in films. After his career in dancing and acting, he focused more on directing episodes of TV shows. He received a 1972 Tony Award nomination for Featured Actor in a Musical for his portrayal of Buddy in the 1971 Broadway musical "Follies".