Bill Robinson

Bill Robinson

Deceased · Born: May 25, 1878 · Died: Nov 25, 1949

Personal Details

BornMay 25, 1878 Richmond, Virginia, USA
Spouse
  • Elaine Plaines

    ( Jan 27, 1944 to Nov 25, 1949 )
  • Fannie S. Clay

    ( Jan 27, 1922 to Dec 31, 1969 )
  • Lena Chase

    ( Dec 31, 1969 to Dec 31, 1969 )

Biography

Bill Robinson, a renowned professional dancer, surprisingly left school at the tender age of seven, commencing his illustrious career in the world of dance the very next year. Dubbed "Bojangles" due to his infectious, effervescent demeanor, this extraordinary individual made a name for himself in the realms of vaudeville, musical theatre, and film. Notably, he pioneered the stair tap routine, earning him widespread recognition as one of the world's most exceptional tap dancers.

Bill Robinson's cinematic debut occurred in the 1930 film "Dixiana," marking the beginning of a fruitful fifteen-film career. However, it was his collaborations with the beloved child star Shirley Temple that catapulted him to fame, with notable roles in "The Little Colonel" (1935),"The Littlest Rebel" (1935),and "Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm" (1938).

In recognition of his remarkable contributions to the world of dance, the United States Congress officially designated his birth date as National Tap Dancing Day in 1989, a testament to the enduring legacy of this dance icon.

Career

1943
Stormy Weather
Stormy Weather as Bill Williamson
1938
Just Around the Corner
Just Around the Corner as Samuel G. Henshaw
1937
One Mile from Heaven
One Mile from Heaven as Officer Joe Dudley
1935
The Littlest Rebel
The Littlest Rebel as Uncle Billy
In Old Kentucky
In Old Kentucky as Wash Jackson
1930
Dixiana
Dixiana as Specialty Dancer