Bobby Banas, the versatile actor, dancer, and choreographer known for his work in iconic movie musicals, has passed away at the age of 90. Banas, who portrayed Joyboy in West Side Story and appeared in beloved films such as Bye Bye Birdie, The Unsinkable Molly Brown, and Mary Poppins, succumbed to pneumonia on Monday at an assisted living facility in Encino.
One of Banas' memorable moments that garnered renewed interest was a clip from a 1964 episode of The Judy Garland Show, where he led a dance number to the song 'The Nitty Gritty.' This clip has since gained millions of views on YouTube.
Born in New York on September 22, 1933, Banas began his dance journey by taking ballroom lessons as a teenager. He later partnered with Natalie Wood in the Michael Panaieff Children's Ballet Company and attended the Hollywood Professional School and Hollywood High.
Banas' career spanned both stage and screen, with notable performances in productions like Damn Yankees, Babes in Toyland, and Bye Bye Birdie. His work with choreographer Jerome Robbins on Broadway paved the way for his role in West Side Story, where he portrayed Joyboy as a member of the Jets.
Aside from his acting roles, Banas also showcased his choreography skills on various television shows, including The Kraft Summer Music Hall, Mork & Mindy, and Down and Out in Beverly Hills.
Survived by his son, director, and photographer Eden Tyler Banas, daughter-in-law Roxanne, and grandson Dylan, Bobby Banas leaves behind a legacy of talent and artistry that will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
