Arthur Duncan was a tap dancer and singer known for his regular appearances on “The Betty White Show” and “The Lawrence Welk Show.”
- Died: January 4, 2023 (Who else died on January 4?)
- Details of death: Died at a care center in Moreno Valley, California of a stroke and pneumonia at the age of 97.
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Pioneering dancer
Duncan toured the world as a dancer and served in the U.S. Army before landing a regular spot on Betty White’s (1922–2021) early talk and variety show, “The Betty White Show,” in 1954. His appearances generated controversy; TV stations in the Jim Crow South threatened to boycott the show if Duncan wasn’t removed. White refused, saying, “Live with it.” He remained on the show, though it was canceled later in the year, and his appearances made him the first Black regular performer on a TV variety show. Duncan became even better known for his longtime role in the “musical family” of “The Lawrence Welk Show.” He danced on the beloved variety show from 1964 until its final season in 1982. Duncan also danced in the USO and appeared on TV shows including “Columbo” and “Diagnosis: Murder.” He made a cameo appearance in the movie “Tap.”
Tributes to Arthur Duncan
Full obituary: The Washington Post
