Don Ameche

Don Ameche (born Dominic Felix Amici; May 31, 1908 – December 6, 1993) was an American actor, comedian, and vaudevillian. He began his career in college shows, stocks, and vaudevilles before becoming a radio star in the early 1930s. Ameche signed a movie contract with 20th Century Fox in 1935 and went on to star in 40 films over the next 14 years. He showcased his talent in comedies, dramas, and musicals. In the 1950s, he ventured into Broadway and television, hosting NBC's International Showtime from 1961 to 1965. Ameche experienced a career revival in his later years with notable performances in Trading Places (1983) and Cocoon (1985), which earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. Born in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Ameche was the son of Felice Amici, an Italian bartender, and Barbara Etta Hertel.