Donen, whose films were known as witty, stylish and energetic, worked with some of Hollywood's biggest stars, from Audrey Hepburn to Fred Astaire. Under Donen's direction, Gene Kelly's famously exuberant and water-logged dance scene in "Singin' in the Rain" became one of cinema's most iconic moments. Though often overshadowed by his stars, Donen's craft was hugely valued by his peers, earning him an Academy Award for lifetime achievement in 1998. It was his only Oscar. He worked with the biggest dancers and choreographers of his time, including Bob Fosse and Gower Champion.
Donen, whose films were known as witty, stylish and energetic, worked with some of Hollywood's biggest stars, from Audrey Hepburn to Fred Astaire. Under Donen's direction, Gene Kelly's famously exuberant and water-logged dance scene in "Singin' in the Rain" became one of cinema's most iconic moments. Though often overshadowed by his stars, Donen's craft was hugely valued by his peers, earning him an Academy Award for lifetime achievement in 1998. It was his only Oscar. He worked with the biggest dancers and choreographers of his time, including Bob Fosse and Gower Champion.