Over the years, myths were built up about my relationship with Fred Astaire. The general public thought he was a Svengali, who snapped his fingers for his little Trilby to obey; in their eyes, my career was his creation.

Looking back at my life's voyage, I can only say that it has been a golden trip.

During my seven-year contract with RKO, there were seven different studio presidents, from David O. Selznick to Charles W. Koerner. You literally had to check the name on the door so as not to call the new boss by the former boss's name.

Girls can do everything men can do...just backwards and in heels

The kids today, they think they can dance with their faces.

Part of the joy of dancing is conversation. Trouble is, some men can't talk and dance at the same time.

I believe in dressing for the occasion. There's a time for sweater, sneakers and Levis and a time for the full-dress jazz.