- Born
- Died
- Birth nameGower Carlisle Champion
- Height5′ 10½″ (1.79 m)
- Gower Champion was born on June 22, 1921 in Geneva, Illinois, USA. He was an actor and director, known for An Evening with Julie Andrews and Harry Belafonte (1969), Hello, Dolly! (1969) and Lovely to Look At (1952). He was married to Karla Most and Marge Champion. He died on August 25, 1980 in New York City, New York, USA.
- SpousesKarla Most(July 23, 1976 - August 25, 1980) (his death)Marge Champion(October 5, 1947 - December 20, 1973) (divorced, 2 children)
- Children
- RelativesAlana Champion(Grandchild)
- Out of an unprecedented 15 nominations, he won eight Tony Awards, more than any other director and/or choreographer (one more win than Bob Fosse). His wins: as Best Choreographer, in 1949 for "Lend an Ear;" and in 1981 for "42nd Street;" and as Best Director (Musical) and Best Choreographer, in 1961 for "Bye, Bye Birdie;" in 1964 for "Hello, Dolly!;" and in 1968 for "The Happy Time." He had seven other nominations: as Best Director (Musical), in 1962 for "Carnival;" in 1967 for "I Do! I Do!;" and 1981 for "42nd Street;" and as Best Director (Musical) and Best Choreographer, in 1973 for "Sugar;" in 1975 for "Mack and Mabel;"
- Dancer, actor, choreographer and director. Joined in 1945 with Marjorie Belcher (aka Marjorie Bell) to form the dance team of "Gower & Bell," renaming the team "Marge and Gower Champion" upon their marriage.
- With fellow teenager Jeanne Tyler, formed the dance team Gower & Jeanne.
- Served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1942-45.
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