Jacques dâAmboise, 86, Dies; Early, Charismatic Star of City Ballet
A product of Washington Heights, he embodied an all-American style, combining the nonchalance of Fred Astaire with the nobility of a classic male dancer. Hollywood came calling, too.
Jacques DâAmboise in 1961. His energy, athleticism, infectious smile and boy-next-door appeal endeared him to audiences.Credit.Jack Mitchell/Getty Images
May 3, 2021Updated 7:23 p.m. ET
Jacques dâAmboise, who shattered stereotypes about male dancers as he helped popularize ballet in America and became one of the most distinguished male stars at New York City Ballet, died on Sunday at his home in Manhattan. He was 86.