From radio navigator to the face of the American musical
In short: Before he became a staple of the silver screen, Gordon MacRae was a radio navigator who won a contest to sing at the 1939 New York World's Fair. His journey from a military flight deck to the leading man of Rodgers and Hammerstein's masterpieces defines an era of American entertainment.
Born in 1921 to a toolmaker and a concert pianist, MacRae's musical pedigree was established early. During the Second World War, he acted as a navigator for the United States Army Air Forces following his 1940 graduation from Deerfield Academy. This period of service interrupted a burgeoning career that had already seen him replace Frank Sinatra on a radio program in 1943. His father was a radio singer and a descendant of Clan MacRae. He also spent time at Nottingham High School in Syracuse, New York, where he joined the Drama Club.
Post-war, MacRae became a versatile powerhouse of the airwaves and stage. He hosted 'The Gordon MacRae Show' on CBS and NBC, and his 'Railroad Hour' anthology series helped popularize hit Broadway musicals through condensed versions. His recording career flourished with frequent collaborations with Jo Stafford, while his stage presence was cemented by a 1942 Broadway debut and a 1946 revue that ran for 326 performances. He also served as the singing emcee for a Saturday morning program called The Teentimers Club in 1946. His variety show Skyline Roof even showcased new talent like the accordionist John Serry Sr.
In Hollywood, MacRae became a reliable leading man, notably starring alongside Doris Day in several films, including 'On Moonlight Bay' (1951). However, his most enduring legacy lies in his work with 20th Century Fox on the big-screen adaptations of 'Oklahoma!' (1955) and 'Carousel' (1956). Despite facing personal struggles with alcoholism, which he overcame by the late 1970s, MacRae remained a prominent figure in television and live theater until his death in 1986. He also played the role of Buddy De Sylva in the 1956 film The Best Things in Life Are Free. His final years included supporting roles in the 1978 movie Zero to Sixty and the 1980 production The Pilot.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Gordon MacRae
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