George M. Cohan

George Michael Cohan (1878–1942) was an American entertainer whose work helped define early Broadway. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, and raised in a family vaudeville act, he became a celebrated playwright, composer, lyricist, actor, and producer. Cohan wrote and starred in hit musical comedies including *Little Johnny Jones* (1904), introducing the songs “You’re a Grand Old Flag” and “Give My Regards to Broadway.” During World War I he wrote the patriotic anthem “Over There” (1917). His career spanned stage and film, and his influence was later honored with the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for *The Seven Little Foys* (1955), a film about his life.