Robert "Bobby" Van
- Born:
- December 6, 1928, Bronx, New York, USA
- Died:
- July 31, 1980, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Dancer, Singer
Early Life and Education
- Born Robert King to Harry King and Elizabeth, née Urick.
- Received dance training from an early age.
- Began performing professionally as a teenager.
Career and Major Achievements
- Broadway debut in "Alive and Kicking" (1950).
- Signed a contract with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) in the early 1950s.
- Starred in several MGM musicals, showcasing his tap dancing skills.
- Hosted the syndicated television game show, "Showoffs" (1975).
- Replaced David Hartman as host of "Good Morning America" (1980), shortly before his death.
Notable Works
| Year | Title | Role | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1953 | Kiss Me Kate | Gremio | Film |
| 1953 | Small Town Girl | Rick Belrow Livingston | Film |
| 1954 | Affairs of Dobie Gillis | Bobby, Chatsworth's Pal | Film |
| 1955 | The Tender Trap | Joe | Film |
| 1975 | Showoffs | Himself (Host) | TV Game Show |
Legacy and Impact
Robert "Bobby" Van was a versatile performer known for his dynamic dance skills and charismatic personality. He left a lasting impact on the world of musical theatre and film, and the brief opportunity to host "Good Morning America" just before his passing remains a bittersweet note in the overall history of bobby van's performance career. While his career was cut short, he is remembered for his contributions to the entertainment industry.