Danville has been called “home” by many talented artists. These six former Danville natives became world-famous in the entertainment industry.
The Celebrities of Danville wall looks out over the historic Fischer Theatre where these stars enjoyed great entertainment and provided many hours of entertainment for others.
From left to right:
Bobby Short began performing professionally at age 11. Known as one of the world’s foremost Gershwin interpreters, Short was a regular performer showcasing his talent at New York’s chic Cafe Carlye.
Jerry Van Dyke, known as a talented actor and comedian, was best known as the beloved, befuddled assistant coach, Luther Van Dam, on TV’s Coach, receiving four Emmy award nominations for the role.
Dick Van Dyke, began his behind the mic career at local station WDAN radio, and found his stage presence performing at Danville High School. From Bye, Bye Birdie, to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, to Mary Poppins and the role of Bert, the chimney sweep, Van Dyke has enjoyed an award winning career. His television series, The Dick Van Dyke Show remains a classic stiuation comedy and his many movies and TV roles continue to entertain his many fans.
Gene Hackman has starred in over 80 films spanning many genres. His first Academy Award came for his role as Popeye Doyle in the French Connection. The Golden Globes honored him with the 2003 Cecil B. DeMille Award for his “outstanding contribution to the entertainment field.” He is also a published author.
Donald O’Conner, coming from a vaudeville backgroud, sang and danced his way through 50 plus movies, including the Francis the Talking Mules series and classic film, Singin in the Rain, considered by the American Film Institute to be the best musical ever made.
Helen Morgan was one of the nations best-known nightclub torch singers of the 20’s and 30’s. One of her most noted movie roles was that of “Julie” in the 1936 version of Showboat. A movie about her life, “The Helen Morgan Story, starring Paul Newman & Ann Blythe, was released in 1957.
Walldog Artist, Andy Goretski
Located: South wall of building at 200 N. Vermlilion St. Mural faces Harrison St.