Harold Nicholas, one-half of the legendary Nicholas Brothers, left a profound impact on the world of dance and entertainment. Renowned for his exceptional tap dancing abilities and magnetic performances, Harold, together with his brother Fayard, shattered racial barriers and set new standards in Hollywood and beyond. This article delves into the life, career, and enduring legacy of Harold Nicholas, celebrating his substantial contributions to the arts.
Quick Facts
- Full Name: Harold Lloyd Nicholas
- Known As: Harold Nicholas
- Professions: Tap Dancer, Actor
- Birth Date: March 27, 1921
- Birthplace: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Nationality: American
- Height: 5 feet 6 inches
- Net Worth at Death (2000): Estimated $1 million
- Spouses: Dorothy Dandridge (1942–1951), Rigmor Alfredsson Newman (1977–2000), Nyta Dover (dates unknown)
- Children: Harolyn Suzanne Nicholas, Melih Nicholas
Early Life and Background
Harold Nicholas was born on March 27, 1921, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Growing up in a musically inclined family—his father a drummer and his mother a pianist—Harold and his older brother Fayard were steeped in the arts from a young age. The family relocated to Philadelphia, where the brothers refined their talents and began their journey to stardom.
Rise to Fame
The Nicholas Brothers quickly made a name for themselves, first performing professionally when Harold was just seven. Their big break came at Harlem's Cotton Club, where their innovative blend of tap and acrobatics wowed audiences and caught the attention of major film studios.
Hollywood and Beyond
Harold's career soared as he moved from Broadway to Hollywood, leaving an indelible mark with each performance.
Notable Performances
The brothers' film debut came in 1935 with "An All-Colored Vaudeville Show." However, it was their 1943 routine in "Stormy Weather," particularly the "Jumpin' Jive" sequence with Cab Calloway, that cemented their status as dance icons.
Collaborations with Icons
Harold's versatility shone through in collaborations with stars like Gene Kelly in "The Pirate" (1948) and earned the respect of peers such as Fred Astaire and Eubie Blake.
Personal Struggles and Triumphs
Despite his professional success, Harold's personal life was filled with both joy and challenges, particularly in his relationships and family life.
Marriage to Dorothy Dandridge
Harold's marriage to actress Dorothy Dandridge was marked by their shared passion for the arts and the birth of their daughter, Harolyn, in 1943. The couple faced significant challenges, including Harolyn’s severe brain damage, which eventually led to their divorce in 1951.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Harold later married Rigmor Alfredsson Newman, with whom he had a son, Melih, and Nyta Dover. His later years were dedicated to family and teaching dance.
Legacy and Honors
Harold Nicholas's artistic contributions were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including a posthumous induction into the National Museum of Dance Hall of Fame in 2001.
Breaking Barriers
The Nicholas Brothers broke racial barriers in an era of segregation, paving the way for future generations of African American performers and becoming cultural icons in the civil rights movement.
Financial Legacy
At the time of his death, Harold’s net worth was estimated at about $1 million, a testament to his successful yet challenging career, marked by both significant earnings and personal financial strains.
Conclusion
Harold Nicholas’s extraordinary talent and resilience have left a lasting impact on the dance world. His performances continue to inspire artists globally, ensuring that his and the Nicholas Brothers' legacies will endure.
FAQ
What are Harold Nicholas's most famous performances?
Harold is best remembered for "Stormy Weather" (1943) and "The Pirate" (1948), with his "Jumpin' Jive" routine being particularly iconic.
Did Harold Nicholas have any children?
Yes, Harold had two children: Harolyn Suzanne Nicholas with Dorothy Dandridge and Melih Nicholas with Rigmor Alfredsson Newman.
What awards did Harold Nicholas receive?
Harold was inducted into the National Museum of Dance Hall of Fame in 2001, among other accolades throughout his career.
How did Harold Nicholas contribute to breaking racial barriers?
The Nicholas Brothers' success in mainstream venues during a racially segregated era opened doors for African American performers in Hollywood and Broadway.
What was Harold Nicholas's financial status at the time of his death?
At his death in 2000, Harold Nicholas's net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, reflecting his career earnings and challenges.
Harold Nicholas's legacy as a tap dance legend and cultural pioneer endures, continuing to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
