Garson Kanin

Date of Birth: November 24, 1912

Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius

Date of Death: March 13, 1999

Biography

Garson Kanin was an American playwright, screenwriter, and director born on November 24, 1912, in Rochester, New York. He began his career in the entertainment industry as an actor but soon shifted his focus to directing and writing. Kanin’s career took off in the late 1930s when he directed several films for RKO Radio Pictures. However, it was his work as a playwright that solidified his place in the annals of American theater. Kanin is perhaps best known for his collaboration with his wife, Ruth Gordon, with whom he co-wrote several successful plays and screenplays. One of their most famous works is the play “Born Yesterday,” which premiered on Broadway in 1946 and was later adapted into a successful film. Kanin also wrote the screenplay for “Adam’s Rib” (1949), a classic romantic comedy starring Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. Throughout his career, Kanin received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Academy Award nominations. He was also a prolific author, penning novels, memoirs, and essays. His memoir “Hollywood” provides a fascinating glimpse into the golden age of cinema and his experiences working with some of the industry’s biggest stars. Kanin’s influence on American theater and film is undeniable, and his works continue to be celebrated for their wit, intelligence, and enduring appeal.

5 Interesting Facts about Garson Kanin

1. Garson Kanin was a high school dropout who later attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts.

2. He served in the United States Army during World War II, where he made documentary films for the Office of War Information.

3. Kanin’s play “Born Yesterday” ran for 1,642 performances on Broadway, making it one of the longest-running plays of its time.

4. He was a close friend of the famous playwright and director George S. Kaufman.

5. Kanin was married to actress and writer Ruth Gordon for 43 years until her death in 1985.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Garson Kanin

1. “Life is a great big canvas; throw all the paint you can at it.”

2. “The best part of being married is when you’re part of a team.”

3. “To be able to endure odium is the first art to be learned by those who aspire to power.”

4. “A man ninety years old was asked to what he attributed his longevity. ‘I reckon,’ he said, with a twinkle in his eye, ‘it’s because most nights I went to bed and slept when I should have sat up and worried.’”

5. “When your work speaks for itself, don’t interrupt.”