Harold Nicholas

Date of Birth: March 27, 1921

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: July 3, 2000

Biography

Harold Nicholas was an American dancer best known as one half of the world-renowned tap-dancing duo, The Nicholas Brothers, alongside his older brother, Fayard Nicholas. Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Harold was immersed in a world of music and dance from a young age, as both of his parents were musicians. The Nicholas Brothers rose to fame in the 1930s and 1940s, becoming trailblazers for Black performers in Hollywood. Their acrobatic style and impeccable timing made them stand out, earning them roles in several major films, including “Stormy Weather” (1943), where they performed their iconic “Jumpin’ Jive” routine. Harold’s career spanned over six decades, during which he not only performed but also inspired generations of dancers with his innovative choreography and electrifying performances.

5 Interesting Facts about Harold Nicholas

1. Harold Nicholas and his brother Fayard were awarded the Kennedy Center Honors in 1991 for their contributions to American culture.

2. The Nicholas Brothers performed at the Cotton Club in Harlem, sharing the stage with legends like Cab Calloway and Duke Ellington.

3. Harold Nicholas was married to actress Dorothy Dandridge from 1942 to 1951, with whom he had one daughter, Harolyn Suzanne Nicholas.

4. Harold and Fayard’s performance in “Stormy Weather” (1943) is considered one of the greatest dance sequences in film history.

5. In addition to dancing, Harold Nicholas also appeared in several Broadway productions, including the 1989 revival of “Black and Blue.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Harold Nicholas

1. “Tap dancing is like walking on air. It’s a way to express joy and sorrow with your feet.”

2. “We didn’t have dance teachers. We just watched and learned. It was all natural.”

3. “The rhythm of life is a powerful beat. If you can tap into it, you can do anything.”

4. “Our goal was always to entertain and to make people happy.”

5. “Dance is the hidden language of the soul.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Harold Nicholas had an estimated net worth of $1 million.

Children

Harold Nicholas had one daughter, Harolyn Suzanne Nicholas, born in 1943. Unfortunately, Harolyn was born with severe developmental disabilities and required special care throughout her life.