Eleanor Powell

Biography

Eleanor Powell was born November 21, 1912 in Springfield, Massachusetts. She was discovered at the age of 11 by Vaudeville Kiddie revue, Gus Edwards, which led to her Broadway career in the 1920’s. Her famous tap dancing earned her the title of world champion in tapping. In 1935, she arrived in Hollywood where she starred in MGM musicals, establishing herself as the Queen of tap dancing. She co-starred with many impressive actors, such as Jimmy Stewart, Robert Taylor, Fred Astaire, Nelson Eddy, Robert Young and many more. She was mainly a solo performer and one of the best tap dancers to ever grace the silver screen. Eleanor Powell & Glenn Ford at their Wedding, 1943. In 1943, Eleanor married classic leading actor, Glenn Ford. With his success on the silver screen and the birth of her child, Peter Ford, Eleanor retired from show business after 20 years in the business. In 1950, Ms. Powell was persuaded to do her last appearance in a musical number with Esther Williams and Van Johnson entitled “Dutchess of Idaho” After her divorce in 1959, she started a short but highlyregarded night-club career. Ms. Powell’s last years were devoted to charitable and religious work, including a brief Sunday morning TV series for children - Faith of our chidren program. Although Ms. Powell did not make many films, she left an ever-lasting impression with her magnificent dancing and is still very much admired and respected today. • Born November 21, 1912 – Died February 11, 1982 • Discovered at the age of 11 in a Vaudeville review • Best known for her famous solo tap dancing routines • Also famous for her radio programs • Married to actor, Glenn Ford (1943 – 1959) • Retired in 1943 after almost 20 years of performing • Devoted her last years to charities and religious work.