'Singin' In The Rain' Director Stanley Donen Dies Right Before Oscars
Hollywood mourns movie musical genius as stars prep for Sunday ceremony.
Feb. 24 2019, Updated 10:00 p.m. ET
The death of movie legend Stanley Donen was announced this weekend, right before the Oscars ceremony.
The Singin' in the Rain director was 94 when he passed away on Thursday, February 21.
Donen was one of the last remaining icons from Hollywood's Golden Age.
The Columbia, S.C., native, who began as a stage dancer, later made 1952's Singin' in the Rain, starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds, one of the most beloved films of all time.
Donen also directed other famous musicals, including Royal Wedding, in which Fred Astaire danced on a ceiling, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, the lively New York-themed On the Town, and It's Always Fair Weather.
In addition, Donen is known for showcasing Audrey Hepburn in the films Funny Face and Two for the Road.
Donen's lead actor in the latter movie, Albert Finney, died just days ago.
The director was married and divorced five times, including to actress Yvette Mimieux.
At the time of his death, his partner was director Elaine May.
Donen had three children, one of whom, son Josh, briefly dated Cher.
It's not known if Sunday's Academy Awards broadcast will celebrate his legacy with a special segment or with a simple "in memoriam" photo.
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