Herbert Ross

Herbert David Ross (May 13, 1927 – October 9, 2001) was a significant figure in American theater and cinema, known for his work as an actor, choreographer, director, and producer. He was particularly known for directing musicals and comedies such as *Goodbye, Mr. Chips* (1969), *The Owl and the Pussycat* (1970), *Play It Again, Sam* (1972), *The Sunshine Boys*, *Funny Lady* (both 1975), *The Goodbye Girl* (1977), *California Suite* (1978), and *Pennies From Heaven* (1981). Additionally, he directed notable films like *Footloose* (1984), and *Steel Magnolias* (1989). For the drama *The Turning Point* (1977) he received two Academy Award nominations for Best Picture and Best Director and also won the Golden Globe Award for Best Director. Born in Brooklyn, New York to Russian-Jewish immigrants, Ross started his career in 1942, making his Broadway debut as a dancer. Later, he worked with illustrious names like Barbra Streisand, Stephen Sondheim, Richard Rodgers, and Arthur Laurents. He choreographed Broadway productions such as *A Tree Grows in Brooklyn* in 1951, *Finian's Rainbow* in 1960, *I Can Get It for You Wholesale* in 1962, and *Do I Hear a Waltz?* in 1965, earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Choreography for *Anyone Can Whistle* in 1964. After spending years as a choreographer, Ross made his film directing debut with musical *Goodbye, Mr. Chips* in 1969.