born July 7, 1899, New York, N.Y., U.S.
died Jan. 24, 1983, Los Angeles, Calif.
U.S. film director.
He directed plays on Broadway before going to Hollywood in 1929. His first film, Tarnished Lady (1931), was followed by the acclaimed Little Women (1933), David Copperfield (1935), The Philadelphia Story (1940), and Gaslight (1944). He directed several comedies starring Katharine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy , including Adam's Rib (1949) and Pat and Mike (1952). He was noted for his skill in working with actors, particularly women. Among his other memorable films are Dinner at Eight (1933), The Women (1939), A Star Is Born (1954), and My Fair Lady (1964, Academy Award).