When discussing Hollywood’s golden age, a name that often comes up is Fred Astaire – the legendary dancer and actor known for his charm and grace on the big screen. But less known is the life of his daughter, Ava Astaire-McKenzie. Born into a world of glamour and fame, Ava has led an intriguing life, filled with a mix of public appearances and private enjoyment, all while carrying the legacy of her father’s immense fame.
Early Life and Family Background
Ava Astaire-McKenzie was born on March 28, 1942, to Fred Astaire and his second wife, Phyllis Livingston Potter. As the daughter of one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures, her life was anything but ordinary. She also has an older brother, Fred Astaire Jr., who inherited the Astaire talent for dancing. Her aunt, Adele Astaire, was also a famous dancer and stage actress. Growing up in such a family, where talent and fame were a norm, certainly played a role in shaping Ava’s life.
Growing Up in Beverly Hills
As a child, Ava spent her early years in the glamorous neighborhood of Beverly Hills, a place synonymous with the rich and famous. It was here that Ava witnessed her father’s stardom, from the fans who adored him to the movie premieres that she often attended. Yet, amid the glitz and glamour, she experienced a childhood that was as normal as it could be under the circumstances. Ava’s parents ensured she and her brother had a grounded upbringing, despite their father’s fame.
Living in Beverly Hills also meant that Ava was surrounded by Hollywood’s elite. She had the chance to interact with the biggest stars of the era, which might have seemed extraordinary to others, but for Ava, it was just part of her everyday life. These experiences, combined with her father’s influence, shaped Ava into the person she is today.
Relationship with Fred Astaire
The bond between Ava and her father, Fred Astaire, was a special one. Despite his busy schedule and constant public attention, Fred always made time for his family. He was not just a superstar to his fans but was also a loving and dedicated father at home.
Ava often spoke about her father’s tireless work ethic and how he would rehearse for hours to perfect his dance routines. Yet, he never let his professional life overshadow his role as a father. He always ensured that he spent quality time with Ava and her brother, creating lasting memories that Ava cherishes to this day.
While her father’s fame might have shadowed Ava’s life in some ways, it also offered her unique experiences and opportunities. It exposed her to a world that many can only dream of. Yet, Ava Astaire-McKenzie has always remained grounded, carrying forward her father’s legacy with grace and humility.
Move to Ireland and Family Life
Ava Astaire-McKenzie’s life took a turn in 1975 when she left the glittering lights of Hollywood behind for the serene landscapes of Ireland. She moved to Cork, a beautiful city on the southern coast of Ireland, with her husband Richard McKenzie, a renowned writer. Their decision to relocate was driven by the desire to provide a tranquil environment for their children to grow up in, away from the limelight of Hollywood.
Ireland’s lush, green pastures and laid-back lifestyle offered a stark contrast to Ava’s upbringing in Beverly Hills. The move marked a significant shift in her life, one that saw her stepping away from her father’s fame and creating a path of her own. It was a testament to Ava’s resilience and adaptability, traits she undoubtedly inherited from her legendary father.
Public Appearances and Media Presence
Despite living a relatively low-profile life in Ireland, Ava Astaire-McKenzie never fully detached herself from the world of show business. She made occasional appearances on TV shows and documentaries, allowing the public a glimpse into her life and her relationship with her famous father.
Her appearances included popular shows like “Parkinson,” and “Pebble Mill at One,” as well as the “AFI Life Achievement Award” where she honored her father’s contribution to film and dance. She also featured in “Follow the Fleet: The Origins of Those Dancing Feet,” a documentary that shed light on Fred Astaire’s impact on the world of dance. Through these appearances, Ava not only kept her father’s legacy alive but also carved out a space for herself in the public eye.
Involvement in Cultural Activities
Being the daughter of Fred Astaire, it’s no surprise that Ava had an innate love for the arts. She and her husband, Richard, were avid theatre-goers and actively participated in various cultural activities.
Whether it was watching a play at the local theatre, visiting an art exhibition, or supporting local artists, Ava and Richard were always involved in the cultural scene. Their love for the arts was not confined to their personal life, either. They used their influence to promote cultural activities and events, contributing to the rich artistic scene in their adopted home of Ireland.
Through their involvement in the arts, Ava and Richard not only enriched their lives but also gave back to the community. They showed how art can bring people together, inspire change, and foster a sense of community.
Relocation to Palm Springs
After nearly four decades of tranquil life in Ireland, Ava Astaire-McKenzie and her husband Richard decided to make another significant shift. In 2010, they packed their bags and moved to Palm Springs, California. This desert resort city, known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, and golf courses, offered a new chapter for the couple.
The move wasn’t driven by a desire for glamour or fame, but rather the pursuit of a comfortable and calm lifestyle. Palm Springs, with its year-round sunshine and relaxed pace, was a perfect choice. Ava and Richard were able to enjoy a peaceful life, away from the public eye, something they had always cherished.
Sale of London Home
Along with their homes in Ireland and the United States, Ava and Richard also maintained a residence in London. This cosmopolitan city offered them a taste of urban life and cultural diversity. However, as the years rolled by, the inconvenience of long flights and the hassle of maintaining multiple residences became apparent.
In 2018, they decided to sell their London home. It was a pragmatic decision, aimed at simplifying their life. As Ava and Richard grew older, they were looking for comfort and ease, rather than the hustle and bustle of a metropolis like London. The sale of their London home marked the end of an era but also the beginning of a phase focused on tranquillity and ease.
Conclusion
Looking at Ava Astaire-McKenzie’s life, one can see a journey marked by famous lineage, unique experiences, and conscious decisions aimed at living life on her terms. From being born into Hollywood’s golden age to forging her path away from the limelight, Ava’s life is a fascinating tale.
Her life is a clear example of how fame and lineage don’t necessarily dictate the course of one’s life. Despite being the daughter of a legendary figure, she chose a life away from the glitz and glamour, opting instead for tranquillity and privacy. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, showing that it’s possible to carve out your path, irrespective of your background.
Whether it was relocating to Ireland, moving to Palm Springs, or selling their London home, Ava and her husband Richard made decisions that suited their pursuit of a peaceful life. Their choices reflect a desire for simplicity and comfort, values they hold dear.
In the end, Ava Astaire-McKenzie’s life is not just the story of Fred Astaire’s daughter. It’s the story of a woman who lived her life with grace, humility, and a strong sense of self, making choices that reflected her values and desires, rather than the expectations set by her father’s fame.
