Date of Birth: July 3, 1878
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Date of Death: November 5, 1942
Biography
George Michael Cohan was a multi-talented American entertainer, known as “the man who owned Broadway.” Born into a vaudeville family, he began performing at a young age and quickly rose to fame as an actor, singer, dancer, playwright, composer, and producer. Cohan is best remembered for his patriotic songs, including “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” “Over There,” and “You’re a Grand Old Flag,” which became anthems during World War I. His contributions to American musical theater were immense, with over 50 Broadway shows attributed to his name. Cohan’s unique blend of musicality, humor, and patriotic fervor left an indelible mark on American culture.
5 Interesting Facts about George M. Cohan
1. George M. Cohan was born on the Fourth of July—though his birth certificate says July 3, he often claimed the more patriotic date.
2. He was a founding member of the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP).
3. Cohan received the Congressional Gold Medal in 1936 for his contributions to American music.
4. He was portrayed by James Cagney in the 1942 film “Yankee Doodle Dandy,” which won Cagney an Academy Award.
5. A statue of Cohan stands in Times Square, a testament to his impact on Broadway and American theater.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from George M. Cohan
1. “I don’t care what you say about me, just spell my name right.”
2. “Many a bum show has been saved by the flag.”
3. “Give my regards to Broadway, remember me to Herald Square.”
4. “You can’t have a good show without a good story.”
5. “It’s not the applause that counts; it’s the way you use it.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the height of his career, George M. Cohan’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million (adjusted for inflation).
Children
George M. Cohan had four children: Mary Cohan, Helen Cohan, Georgette Cohan, and George M. Cohan Jr.
Relevant Links
1. [George M. Cohan – Biography on IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0169328/bio
2. [George M. Cohan – Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_M._Cohan
3. [George M. Cohan on Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/George-M-Cohan
4. [George M. Cohan’s Songs on AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/george-m-cohan-mn0000534775