Gordon MacRae: The Iconic Actor, Singer, and Television Host
The Leading Man of Rodgers and Hammerstein Musicals
Gordon MacRae is best known for his starring roles in the film adaptations of Rodgers and Hammerstein's iconic musicals,
Oklahoma! (1955) and
Carousel (1956). With his powerful baritone voice and charming on-screen presence, MacRae captivated audiences as the quintessential leading man of the 1950s.
Early Life and Career
Born on March 12, 1921, in East Orange, New Jersey, MacRae came from a family of talented musicians. His father, William LaMont MacRae, was a toolmaker and radio singer, while his mother, Helen Violet Sonn, was a concert pianist. MacRae's early life was filled with music, and he attended Nottingham High School in Syracuse, New York, where he was active in the Drama Club. He later graduated from Deerfield Academy in Deerfield, Massachusetts, in 1940.
Wartime Service and Early Success
During World War II, MacRae served as a navigator in the United States Army Air Forces. After the war, he won a contest that enabled him to sing at the 1939 New York World's Fair with the
Harry James and
Les Brown orchestras. This breakthrough led to his first recording contract, and he went on to make many hit records with Jo Stafford.
Broadway and Radio Stardom
MacRae made his Broadway debut in 1942 and soon became a regular on the Great White Way. He also had a successful radio career, hosting his own show,
The Gordon MacRae Show, on CBS from 1945 to 1946. Additionally, he hosted and starred in
The Railroad Hour, a half-hour anthology series featuring condensed versions of hit Broadway musicals.
Film Career and Legacy
MacRae signed a contract with Warner Bros. in 1946, which led to his film debut in
Oklahoma! and subsequent roles in
Carousel,
On Moonlight Bay (1951), and
By the Light of the Silvery Moon (1953). His film career cemented his status as a beloved leading man, and his iconic performances continue to delight audiences today.
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, MacRae received numerous awards and nominations, including a Tony Award nomination for his performance in
Oklahoma!
Personal Life and Legacy
MacRae was married to
Sheila MacRae, an actress and singer, and had two children with her. He passed away on January 24, 1986, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most beloved entertainers of his generation.
Fun Facts
- MacRae was a descendant of Clan MacRae, a Scottish Highland clan.
- He was a replacement performer on the Broadway show Junior Miss.
- MacRae's radio show, Skyline Roof, featured emerging musical talent, including the accordionist John Serry Sr.
With his incredible talent, charming on-screen presence, and iconic performances, Gordon MacRae remains an beloved figure in American entertainment history. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors, singers, and audiences alike.
FAQ
What did Gordon MacRae do for a living?
Gordon MacRae was an American actor and singer, best known for his roles in films like Oklahoma! and Carousel, as well as his powerful baritone voice.
What kind of roles did Gordon MacRae play?
Gordon MacRae often played romantic leads and rugged heroes, using his strong voice and charismatic presence to bring characters to life on screen and stage.
How did Gordon MacRaes singing career evolve?
Gordon MacRaes singing career spanned decades, with performances on stage, screen, and radio, featuring his powerful baritone voice and versatility in musical genres.
What impact did Gordon MacRae have on musical theater?
Gordon MacRaes performances helped shape the development of musical theater, with his iconic roles in Oklahoma! and Carousel cementing his place in the history of American musical theater.
What legacy did Gordon MacRae leave behind?
Gordon MacRae left behind a legacy of memorable performances, iconic roles, and a commitment to the art of musical theater, inspiring future generations of actors, singers, and performers.
