Simple question Fred Astaire or Gene Kelly , and why ???

Tough one. But I say Gene Kelly. The big difference between them is style versus athleticism. Astaire was pure style and grace, and had a lyrical quality to his dancing that was almost balletic. But if you look at the body of his film work, he actually didn't exhibit the range of expression that Kelly did.

Kelly's athleticism allowed him to do any step, any type of dancing, and to make seemingly impossible leaps and bounds that Astaire could never accomplish, look easy. Bottom line, when we looked at Astaire, we said, "Ooooh;" but when we looked at Kelly, we said, "WOW!"

They were both great but while I think Fred Astaire was a little more sophisticated in style no one brings a smile to my face like watching Gene Kelly dance.

Fred Astaire. He will always be the Master, Gene Kelly was actually inspired by Fred Astaire, plus their forms are different.

Gene Kelly has a better rhythm and style. Fred Astaire is good, but Gene impresses me more. Fred Astaire companies are scams, too.

Fred Astaire. He was the first male dancer I saw on tv and he was co starring with Audrey Hepburn whom I love as well. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers were part of my inspiration for dancing.

I just adore Fred Astaire. His style is so... lyrical. I just love watching him dance. Also, he and Ginger Rogers were wonderful together.

Simple answer. Gene Kelly. I liked his dancing style better and think he had more charisma than Fred & just came across on the silver screen better. Just looked better, in general.