Role

:

Composer Performer

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

February 10, 1893 in New York City, NY

Death

:

January 29, 1980 in Santa Monica, CA

Genre

:

Film

 

Jimmy Durante was an American singer, pianist, comedian, and actor who was born on February 10, 1893, in Brooklyn, New York. He was the youngest of four children born to Italian immigrants. Durante's father was a barber, and his mother was a homemaker. Durante's love for music began at a young age, and he started playing the piano when he was just six years old. Durante's career in show business began in the 1910s when he started performing in vaudeville shows. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented pianist and comedian, and he soon became a popular performer. In the 1920s, Durante began performing on radio shows, and he quickly became one of the most popular radio personalities of the time. Durante's big break came in 1930 when he was cast in the Broadway musical "The New Yorkers." Durante's performance in the show was a huge success, and he became a household name overnight. He went on to star in several other Broadway shows, including "Jumbo" and "Red, Hot and Blue." Durante's success on Broadway led to a career in Hollywood. He appeared in several films, including "The Wet Parade," "Palooka," and "The Man Who Came to Dinner." Durante's most famous film role was in the 1950 film "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World," in which he played a character named Smiler Grogan. Durante was also a successful recording artist. He recorded several hit songs, including "Inka Dinka Doo," "Umbriago," and "As Time Goes By." Durante's gravelly voice and unique style made him a beloved performer, and he continued to record music throughout his career. Durante was known for his philanthropy, and he was involved in several charitable organizations throughout his life. He was particularly passionate about helping children, and he often performed at benefit concerts to raise money for children's charities. Durante's career spanned several decades, and he remained a popular performer until his death in 1980. He received several awards and honors throughout his career, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Durante's legacy as a performer and entertainer continues to live on today. His unique style and infectious personality made him a beloved figure in American popular culture, and his contributions to music, comedy, and film will always be remembered.

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