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Jul 3, 1878 - Nov 5, 1942 (64 years old)
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United States of America
Playwright , singer , Composer , Lyricist , Theatrical producer , Actor
George M. Cohan was a multifaceted American entertainer, acclaimed as a composer, playwright, actor, singer, dancer, lyricist, and producer, with a notable net worth of $20 million. Born in Providence, Rhode Island in July 1878, Cohan's journey into entertainment began at an early age when he performed in vaudeville acts with his family. His career blossomed as he wrote, composed, produced, and appeared in over 36 Broadway musicals, starting with the iconic 'Little Johnny Jones' in 1904.
Among his prolific output, Cohan published more than 300 songs that have become timeless pieces of American musical heritage. Some of his most famous works include 'Give My Regards to Broadway,' 'Over There,' 'You're a Grand Old Flag,' and 'The Yankee Doodle Boy.'
Cohan was a pioneering force in American music and was one of the early members of the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP). Revered as 'the man who owned Broadway' and the 'Father of American musical comedy,' his life and contributions were immortalized in the 1942 Academy Award-winning film 'Yankee Doodle Dandy,' and the 1968 musical 'George M!'
In recognition of his enduring impact, a statue of George M. Cohan proudly stands in New York City's Times Square, celebrating his contributions to Broadway and American culture. Sadly, Cohan passed away from cancer on November 5, 1942, at the age of 64.
