Born May 31, 1908 in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Dominic Felix Amichi, known professionally as Don Ameche, the actor was one of eight children and after his 1932 marriage, became the father of six.

Having played in college shows, stock, and vaudeville, Ameche became a major radio star in the early 1930s, which led to the offer of a movie contract from 20th Century Fox in 1935. There the versatile actor became a popular star of comedies, dramas, and musicals.

Ameche made his film debut in an uncredited role as a prisoner in a black hole in 1935’s Clive of India and after two more uncreditable roles, emerged as a star opposite Loretta Young in 1936’s Ramona. By 1938, he was a major star, co-starring with Alice Faye and Tyrone Power in both In Old Chicago and Alexander’s Ragtime Band. 1939 was an even better year for him. That was the year he starred opposite Claudette Colbert in the classic screwball comedy, Midnight, and played both Alexander Graham Bell in The Story of Alexander Graham Bell with Loretta Young and Henry Fonda in support, and Stephen Foster in Swanee River with Andrea Leeds and Al Jolson in support.

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