What Was Hermes Pan’s Real Name?

Hermes Pan was a legendary choreographer and dancer who worked on some of the most iconic musical films of Hollywood’s golden era. But what was Hermes Pan’s real name? Let’s delve into the life and legacy of this talented artist.

The Early Years

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on December 10, 1909, Hermes Pan was named after the Greek god of commerce and messenger. However, his birth name was not actually Hermes Panagiotopoulos, as many people believe. In fact, his real name was Artemios Apostolides.

Discovering Dance

As a young boy, Artemios loved to dance and performed in local shows. His family moved to Los Angeles when he was a teenager, and he soon caught the attention of Hollywood studios for his dance skills. He changed his name to Hermes Pan when he started working in the film industry.

A Hollywood Career

Hermes Pan quickly made a name for himself as a choreographer for musical films. He collaborated with some of the biggest stars of his time, including Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers.

He worked on classic movies like “Top Hat,” “Swing Time,” and “The Gay Divorcee.” He won three Academy Awards for Best Dance Direction for his work on “The Harvey Girls,” “Yolanda and the Thief,” and “Broadway Melody of 1940.”

Legacy

Hermes Pan’s contributions to the art of dance in cinema cannot be overstated. His innovative choreography helped define the genre of musicals, and he inspired countless dancers and choreographers who followed in his footsteps. His work continues to be celebrated today through revivals of classic films like “Top Hat” and “Swing Time.”

In Conclusion

So there you have it – Hermes Pan’s real name was Artemios Apostolides. Despite the name change, his contributions to the world of dance and film will always be remembered.