People think I was born in top hat and tails.

I just told my agent to forget all other projects for me. I was waiting for Audrey Hepburn. She asked for me, and I was ready. This could be the last and only opportunity I’d have to work with the great and lovely Audrey Hepburn and I was not missing it. Period.

Can't act. Can't sing. Slightly bald. Can dance a little.

I have no desire to prove anything by dancing ... I just dance.

There comes a day when people begin to say, 'Why doesn't that old duffer retire?' I want to get out while they're still saying Astaire is a hell of a dancer.

Slippery stages were the terror of my life.

Dancing is a sweat job.