Gower Champion
Director
Director and choreographer of numerous Broadway musicals including Bye Bye Birdie, 42nd Street, The Happy Time, and Hello, Dolly!
He performed at nightclubs in a dance act with his friend Jeanne Tyler during his teen years.
He was honored with eight Tony Awards for his work as a director and choreographer.
He married second wife Karla Russell in 1976. He was previously married to Marjorie Celeste Belcher.
He starred in the 1953 film Give a Girl a Break with Bob Fosse.