David Daniel Kaminsky
- Born:
- January 18, 1911, Brooklyn, New York City, New York, USA
- Died:
- March 3, 1987, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Actor, Comedian, Singer, Dancer, Humanitarian
Early Life and Education
- Born to Ukrainian Jewish immigrants Jacob and Clara (née Podemsky) Kaminsky.
- Attended Public School 149 in Brooklyn.
- Left high school to pursue a career in entertainment.
Career and Major Achievements
- Started performing in the Borscht Belt resorts of the Catskill Mountains.
- Broadway debut in 1939 in "The Straw Hat Revue".
- Breakthrough role in the Broadway musical "Lady in the Dark" (1941).
- Signed a film contract with Samuel Goldwyn in 1944.
- Starred in numerous successful films throughout the 1940s and 1950s.
- Hosted "The Danny Kaye Show" on CBS (1963-1967), which won four Emmy Awards.
- Served as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF from 1954 until his death, traveling extensively and raising awareness for children's needs.
Notable Works
Filmography
| Year | Title | Role |
|---|---|---|
| 1944 | Up in Arms | Danny Weems |
| 1946 | The Kid from Brooklyn | Burleigh Sullivan |
| 1947 | The Secret Life of Walter Mitty | Walter Mitty |
| 1949 | The Inspector General | Georgi |
| 1954 | White Christmas | Phil Davis |
| 1956 | The Court Jester | Hubert Hawkins |
Stage Productions
- The Straw Hat Revue (1939)
- Lady in the Dark (1941)
Awards and Honors
- Academy Honorary Award (1955)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Musical or Comedy (1951, 1959, 1964)
- Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award (1982)
- Four Primetime Emmy Awards (for The Danny Kaye Show)
Legacy and Impact
David Daniel Kaminsky, known professionally as Danny Kaye, was a highly influential figure in entertainment, renowned for his comedic talents, physical comedy, and humanitarian work. The influence of a performer like Danny Kaye is undeniable, though he never penned his story in something like a 'danny kaye autobiography'. His films continue to be enjoyed by audiences worldwide, and his dedication to UNICEF left a lasting impact on the lives of children in need.