Cheek to Cheek: How Astaire & Rogers' Friendship Stepped Up Over Time
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The names themselves conjure images of effortless grace, playful banter, and a chemistry so electric it practically leapt off the silver screen. Yet, their on-screen magic belied a more nuanced relationship, one that evolved and adapted over the course of a decade.
Their initial meeting in 1930 was far from fireworks. Astaire, a seasoned performer with a background in vaudeville, already possessed a reputation for meticulousness. Rogers, a young dancer with a fiery spirit, wasn't immediately impressed. As Rogers later quipped, "He wasn't much to look at. He was kind of skinny and all legs" [Ginger Rogers, Autobiography]. Despite their differences, their undeniable on-floor connection was evident.
Their first film together, "The Flying Down to Rio" (1933), was a smash hit. Astaire, ever the gentleman, championed Rogers' talent, famously saying, "All I do is the thinking, all she does is the work" [Fred Astaire, Interview]. Rogers, however, felt undervalued. She possessed a comedic timing and athleticism that rivalled Astaire's grace, and she craved roles that showcased her strengths. This simmering tension became a defining element of their partnership.
As their success grew, so did the complexity of their dynamic. They pushed each other to new heights, Astaire with his innovative choreography and Rogers with her fiery personality that challenged the traditional damsel-in-distress trope. Yet, public perception often overshadowed reality. The media perpetuated a narrative of a romantic off-screen affair, while the truth was a deep respect for each other's artistry, laced with a touch of professional competitiveness.
As the years progressed, their individual desires began to diverge. Rogers yearned for dramatic roles, a wish often thwarted by their shared "dancing couple" image. Astaire, comfortable with their partnership, nonetheless harboured a desire to be recognized as a solo artist. In 1939, after a string of successful films, their partnership ended.
The separation proved to be mutually beneficial. Rogers finally received the dramatic roles she craved, even earning an Academy Award for "Kitty Foyle" (1940). Astaire, too, ventured into solo projects, showcasing his versatility.
Despite going their separate ways, their bond remained. Years later, when asked about their rumoured feud, Astaire said, "There were all kinds of rumours that we used to fight all the time. We never fought. We never had a harsh word" [Fred Astaire, Interview]. In 1979, when Rogers received a Lifetime Achievement Award, Astaire presented it, calling her "my favourite partner."
The story of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers isn't just about flawless dance routines on a silver screen. It's a testament to a partnership that thrived despite its complexities. It evolved from initial indifference to a deep respect for each other's talent, even when laced with a bit of professional rivalry. As their careers matured, their friendship adapted, allowing them to pursue individual passions while cherishing the legacy they built together. Theirs is a reminder that friendships, like good tap dancing, can adapt and evolve, sometimes taking a separate step but never losing the rhythm that brought them together.