Happy Birthday, Bobby Darin!

Bobby Darin was one of those old-time all-around entertainers that we don't see so much of any more. He could sing nearly anything, he could act, and he was cool.

His biggest hit was "Mack The Knife" in 1959, but he also sang "Splish Splash," "Dream Lover," Beyond The Sea," and "If I Were A Carpenter," among many many other standards.

He acted in COME SEPTEMBER, where he met his future wife, Sandra Dee. He was nominated for an Academy Award for his supporting role in CAPTAIN NEWMAN MD.

After he ended his self-imposed seclusion following the assassination of his friend Robert Kennedy he went on to headline at Las Vegas for several years. He hosted his own variety show on television in 1972 and 1973.

His story was dramatized by Kevin Spacey in BEYOND THE SEA in 2004.

Bobby Darin was born Walden Robert Cassoto on May 14, 1936. He died of congestive heart trouble on December 20, 1973. He was only 37 years old.

This is a clip of "Mack The Knife" from his 1972 variety show. I chose it because it features a photo montage of Bobby Darin's life. "They don't make 'em like that any more...."