Fred Astaire, a name synonymous with effortless elegance and unparalleled grace, captivated audiences for decades with his revolutionary approach to dance on film. While his individual brilliance is undeniable, the magic of Fred Astaire truly shimmered in partnership. This exploration delves into the captivating world of Fred Astaire’s dance partners, celebrating the remarkable women who shared the silver screen with him and contributed to some of cinema’s most unforgettable moments. From dazzling tap routines to romantic ballroom sequences, Astaire’s collaborations with these talented women elevated dance in film to an art form. Join us as we rank and appreciate ten of Astaire’s most celebrated female film partners, recognizing their unique contributions to his legendary career.
Virginia Dale and Fred Astaire playfully dancing in Holiday Inn
10. Virginia Dale & Marjorie Reynolds – The Charm of Holiday Inn
Kicking off our list are two delightful partners from the classic Holiday Inn (1942): Virginia Dale and Marjorie Reynolds. It feels fitting to acknowledge them together, as both actresses bring a unique charm to their pairings with Astaire in this festive film. While they might not be as widely remembered as some of Astaire’s other leading ladies, Dale and Reynolds more than hold their own.
Holiday Inn is a treasure trove of Irving Berlin songs and dazzling dance sequences. Reynolds shines in multiple routines, notably the romantic “Be Careful, It’s My Heart,” often mistakenly attributed to Astaire’s more famous partnership with Ginger Rogers. Dale is equally captivating in numbers like “You’re Easy to Dance With,” showcasing a playful and snappy energy alongside Astaire. Their combined presence in Holiday Inn underscores Astaire’s ability to create on-screen magic with a variety of talented partners, proving that star power isn’t solely about name recognition, but also about captivating performance.
Fred Astaire comically portraying drunkenness while dancing with Marjorie Reynolds in Holiday Inn
9. Jane Powell – Playful Sibling Chemistry in Royal Wedding
Jane Powell, Astaire’s co-star in Royal Wedding (1951), brings a youthful exuberance and playful energy to their on-screen partnership. Although they portray brother and sister in the film, their chemistry is undeniable, albeit in a uniquely sibling-like way. This dynamic makes their dance numbers particularly fun and engaging to watch.
A standout routine is “How Could You Believe Me When I Said I Loved You When You Know I’ve Been a Liar All My Life?” a comedic and deliberately over-the-top performance that perfectly showcases their lighthearted rapport. Powell’s soprano voice and vivacious personality complement Astaire’s sophisticated style, creating a memorable and charming pairing. While Royal Wedding might be known for Astaire’s iconic dance on the ceiling, his scenes with Powell are equally delightful and demonstrate his versatility in adapting his style to different partners and narratives.
Jane Powell smiling brightly in a publicity still for Royal Wedding
8. Eleanor Powell – Powerful Tapestry in Broadway Melody of 1940
Eleanor Powell was renowned for her powerful and technically brilliant tap dancing style. As Astaire himself noted in his autobiography, Powell was a force to be reckoned with, bringing a dynamic, almost masculine energy to her tap routines. Their collaboration in Broadway Melody of 1940 (1940) is a showcase of tap mastery.
Numbers like “Begin the Beguine” are breathtaking displays of speed, precision, and skill. While the romantic connection might be less emphasized compared to Astaire’s partnerships with others, the sheer athleticism and mutual respect between Astaire and Powell are palpable. Powell’s unique style, distinct from the more lyrical grace of some of Astaire’s other partners, provides a fascinating contrast and highlights the breadth of Astaire’s dance repertoire and his ability to adapt to different styles.
Eleanor Powell striking a dynamic dance pose in Broadway Melody of 1940
7. Leslie Caron – Delicate Charm in Daddy Long Legs
Leslie Caron brought a youthful innocence and delicate charm to her partnership with Astaire in Daddy Long Legs (1955). This film notably addresses the age gap between the characters, adding a layer of nuanced storytelling to their dance relationship. Caron’s background in ballet infused her movements with a graceful fluidity that contrasted yet complemented Astaire’s more grounded style.
While some critics found Caron’s performance in “Something’s Gotta Give” to be slightly stiff, many appreciate her understated elegance and the developing romantic tension she portrays alongside Astaire. “The Sluefoot,” a lively number set at a college dance, showcases Astaire’s ageless energy and Caron’s ability to keep pace with his virtuosity. Daddy Long Legs benefits from the pairing of seasoned master Astaire with the fresh talent of Caron, creating a unique dynamic that resonates with the film’s themes of mentorship and burgeoning romance.
Leslie Caron and Fred Astaire in a still from Daddy Long Legs
6. Audrey Hepburn – Chic Sophistication in Funny Face
Audrey Hepburn, icon of chic sophistication, partnered with Astaire in Funny Face (1957), resulting in a pairing that is pure cinematic delight. Despite some initial concerns about the age difference between the actors, their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, creating a sweet and captivating couple.
Funny Face is celebrated for its stylish Parisian setting and iconic fashion moments, and Hepburn and Astaire are at the heart of its charm. Their dance number “He Loves and She Loves” is a romantic highlight, showcasing their elegant movements and heartfelt connection. Hepburn also shines in her solo number “Basal Metabolism,” a quirky and memorable routine that proves her dance capabilities and comedic timing. Together, Hepburn and Astaire in Funny Face represent a blend of timeless elegance and playful charm, solidifying their place as a beloved on-screen duo.
Audrey Hepburn in a wedding dress with Fred Astaire in Funny Face
5. Vera-Ellen – Versatile Brilliance in Three Little Words & The Belle of New York
Vera-Ellen, a dancer of exceptional versatility and grace, collaborated with Astaire in two films: Three Little Words (1950) and The Belle of New York (1952). Often overlooked by modern audiences, Vera-Ellen was a true dance marvel, equally adept at balletic grace and jazzy tap.
Her partnership with Astaire in Three Little Words is particularly noteworthy. Despite being dubbed for singing, her dance talent is undeniable, and her rapport with Astaire is evident in numbers like “Thinking of You” and the playful “Mr. and Mrs. Hoofer at Home.” Vera-Ellen’s dynamic energy and technical skill made her a standout partner for Astaire, and her contributions to his filmography deserve greater recognition. She brought a unique sparkle and vivacity to their performances, making their dances a joy to watch.
Vera-Ellen striking a pose in a costume for The Belle of New York
4. Judy Garland – Electric Chemistry in Easter Parade
The pairing of Judy Garland and Fred Astaire in Easter Parade (1948) is considered by many to be a stroke of genius. Despite the numerous missed opportunities for them to collaborate, the one film they made together is a testament to their combined star power and electric on-screen chemistry.
Garland brought a warmth, humor, and dramatic depth to her performances that perfectly complemented Astaire’s polished style. She famously coaxed Astaire into the comedic “A Couple of Swells,” showcasing his willingness to step outside his usual suave persona. Her powerful vocals and emotive acting, particularly in “Better Luck Next Time,” added another layer of richness to their partnership. Easter Parade remains a beloved classic, largely due to the unforgettable magic created by Astaire and Garland.
Judy Garland and Fred Astaire dancing in Easter Parade
3. Rita Hayworth – Radiant Elegance in You’ll Never Get Rich & You Were Never Lovelier
Rita Hayworth, the radiant redhead of Hollywood’s Golden Age, is often cited as one of Fred Astaire’s personal favorite dance partners. Their collaborations in You’ll Never Get Rich (1941) and You Were Never Lovelier (1942) showcase a delightful rapport built on warmth, wit, and undeniable elegance.
While You’ll Never Get Rich is considered by some to be less memorable, You Were Never Lovelier is a true gem, highlighting the captivating chemistry between Astaire and Hayworth. Hayworth was an exceptionally talented dancer, often underestimated for her terpsichorean abilities. Numbers like “Shorty George” and “I’m Old-Fashioned” are dazzling displays of her skill and grace, making audiences lament that she and Astaire didn’t collaborate more frequently. Their partnership was a perfect blend of Astaire’s sophistication and Hayworth’s vibrant charisma.
Rita Hayworth and Fred Astaire in a publicity still for You Were Never Lovelier
2. Cyd Charisse – Beautiful Dynamite in The Band Wagon & Silk Stockings
Cyd Charisse, famously described by Astaire as “beautiful dynamite,” holds the second spot on our list. Their partnership in The Band Wagon (1953) and Silk Stockings (1957) is a masterclass in dance performance. Charisse’s versatility was breathtaking, transitioning effortlessly from soft and balletic in “Dancing in the Dark” to sharp and sensual in the iconic “Girl Hunt Ballet” sequence.
While Charisse might not have possessed the comedic flair of Garland or the overt charisma of Hayworth, her dancing was in a league of its own, particularly when paired with Astaire. Routines like “All of You” and “Fated to be Mated” are pure dance ecstasy, showcasing the unparalleled synergy between these two dance titans. Charisse’s long legs and elegant lines, combined with Astaire’s precision and innovation, created some of the most visually stunning and technically brilliant dance sequences in film history.
Cyd Charisse and Fred Astaire elegantly dancing in The Band Wagon
1. Ginger Rogers – The Unmatched Magic of a Legendary Duo
And at the top of our list, unsurprisingly, is Ginger Rogers. The partnership of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers is arguably the most iconic dance pairing in cinematic history. Their ten films together, including classics like Flying Down to Rio (1933), Top Hat (1935), and Swing Time (1936), redefined the movie musical and solidified their legendary status.
Rogers was not only a phenomenal dancer but also a gifted actress, capable of conveying both comedic and dramatic nuances through her performances. This acting prowess translated seamlessly into her dancing, adding layers of emotion and narrative to their routines. Watching Rogers in numbers like “Pick Yourself Up” reveals her incredible ability to act through dance, portraying character development and relationship dynamics in each step.
From the heartbreak of “Never Gonna Dance” to the joyous energy of “I’ll Be Hard to Handle,” and the romantic sophistication of “Let’s Face the Music and Dance,” their dances are timeless masterpieces. Together, Astaire and Rogers were more than just dance partners; they were a phenomenon. Their chemistry, skill, and the sheer joy they exuded on screen created a magic that remains unmatched and continues to enchant audiences today. For anyone seeking to experience the pinnacle of Fred Astaire’s artistry, a film with Ginger Rogers is undoubtedly the perfect starting point.
