How Old Was Gene Kelly an American in Paris?

By Robert Palmer

Gene Kelly was an American actor, dancer, and singer who rose to fame during the Golden Age of Hollywood. He was known for his energetic and athletic dance routines, as well as his charming on-screen persona. One of Kelly’s most iconic roles was in the 1951 musical film “An American in Paris”.

How old was Gene Kelly when he starred in “An American in Paris”?

At the time of filming “An American in Paris”, Gene Kelly was 39 years old. Despite being close to middle age, Kelly’s performance in the film showcased his incredible dance skills and athleticism.

The plot of “An American in Paris”

“An American in Paris” is a musical film that tells the story of Jerry Mulligan, a former American GI who decides to stay in Paris after World War II ends. Mulligan dreams of becoming a successful painter but struggles to make ends meet. Along the way, he falls in love with Lise Bouvier (played by Leslie Caron), a young French woman who is caught between two men.

The famous dance sequence

One of the most memorable scenes from “An American in Paris” is the extended ballet sequence set to George Gershwin’s orchestral composition of the same name. In this sequence, Kelly and Caron dance through various locations around Paris, including along the Seine River and through a flower market.

  • Kelly choreographed the entire sequence himself.
  • The ballet lasts over 17 minutes.
  • Kelly reportedly suffered from severe fever during filming but refused to take time off.

Kelly’s legacy

Gene Kelly went on to star in numerous other films throughout his career, including “Singin’ in the Rain”, “On the Town”, and “Brigadoon”. He continued to dance and perform well into his later years, and was awarded numerous honors for his contributions to the entertainment industry. Kelly passed away in 1996 at the age of 83, but his legacy as one of Hollywood’s most talented performers lives on.

In conclusion, Gene Kelly was 39 years old when he starred in “An American in Paris”. Despite his age, Kelly’s performance in the film remains one of the most iconic dance sequences in movie history. His talent and charisma continue to inspire performers and audiences alike to this day.