Joe Donahue was a decade younger than his brother Jack, who was an accomplished and renowned vaudeville and musical dancer during the 1920s. Jack's impressive career included starring roles in several hit productions, including the notable "1920 Follies" and "Sons o' Guns" in 1929. Unfortunately, Jack's life was cut short in 1930 due to the devastating effects of high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney problems.
Following in his brother's footsteps, Joe also pursued a career in show business, and after gaining valuable experience on Broadway, he was handpicked by the celebrated actress Marilyn Miller to be her leading man in the production of "Sunny" in 1930. Interestingly, Jack had previously worked alongside Miller in the stage versions of "Sunny" in 1925 and "Rosalie" in 1928.
