Danny Thomas Age at Death and Key Dates
Danny Thomas was born on January 6, 1912, and died on February 6, 1991, making him 79 years old at the time of death. He passed away in Los Angeles, California, from a heart-related illness after a long career in entertainment and philanthropy. His age at death is frequently searched by fans verifying biographical details about the comedian and actor.
Public records and entertainment archives confirm that Danny Thomas lived through most of the 20th century, spanning the golden age of radio, television, and film. His death at age 79 marked the end of an era for a performer who helped shape American comedy and family entertainment. Sources such as biographical databases and entertainment history sites provide consistent data on his birth and death dates.
Early Life and Career Background
Danny Thomas was born Amos Muzyad Yakhoob Kairouz in Michigan, and he rose to fame through nightclub performances and radio shows before becoming a television star. His breakthrough came with the hit series Make Room for Daddy, which aired from 1953 to 1964 and solidified his status as a household name. This period is well documented in entertainment history references and performer profiles.
Before his television success, Thomas built a reputation as a stand-up comedian and recording artist, working with major labels and appearing in films during the 1940s and 1950s. His career trajectory reflects the broader shift of American entertainment from live venues to broadcast media, a transition that many performers of his generation navigated. Detailed career timelines are available through biographical resources and entertainment industry archives.
Legacy, Philanthropy, and Lasting Influence
Danny Thomas founded St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1962, creating one of the most recognized pediatric cancer research centers in the world. The hospital continues to operate as a nonprofit leader in treating childhood diseases, and its founding story is often cited in discussions of celebrity philanthropy and healthcare innovation. Information about the hospital's mission and impact can be found on its official site and in news coverage.
Thomas's influence extends beyond his own performances, shaping the landscape of family-oriented television and charitable giving in the entertainment industry. His age at death, career milestones, and philanthropic work are frequently referenced in media profiles and historical summaries of mid-century American celebrities. For more detailed information on his life and contributions, you can explore the official St. Jude Children's Research Hospital website and reputable entertainment biography platforms.