Longtime Hollywood Dancer Reveals What It Was Really Like to Work with Frank Sinatra: ‘Not Fun’

Christopher Riordan, an esteemed dancer in Hollywood, has recently shared his experiences working alongside legendary performers, including Frank Sinatra, revealing a contrasting dynamic between the two. With a career that has seen him perform with icons such as Elvis Presley, Audrey Hepburn, and Elizabeth Taylor, Riordan’s insights are rooted in a wealth of experience spanning several decades.

In a candid discussion on the That’s Classic! podcast, the 88-year-old Riordan recounted his time collaborating with Sinatra on two films in 1965: “Von Ryan’s Express” and “Marriage on the Rocks.” He acknowledges Sinatra’s musical genius but candidly describes his experience on set as less than enjoyable. “Honestly, let me just preface by saying I think he’s a wonderful musician,” Riordan remarked, noting that Sinatra’s music often plays in his home. However, he quickly shifted focus to their working relationship, stating, “But he was not fun to work with.”

Riordan recalled the mechanics of Sinatra’s filming arrangements, which were notably unconventional. According to him, the iconic singer-actor would arrive at the set via helicopter, perform his scenes with limited takes, and then depart almost as swiftly as he arrived. “He would show up in his helicopter, you know, that would land, and he’d get out and do his scene. And he wouldn’t do it more than twice, and then he’d get in his helicopter and go away, and that was it,” Riordan explained. This method of working left little room for interaction or collaboration, resulting in a rather detached working environment.

In sharp contrast to his experience with Sinatra, Riordan later had the opportunity to work with Nancy Sinatra, the singer’s daughter. Initially apprehensive about collaborating with another member of the Sinatra family, he was pleasantly surprised by Nancy’s approach. “Later, when I was choreographing at American International, I was told, ‘Okay, you’re going to be choreographing Miss Sinatra,’” he recalled, highlighting his initial hesitation at the prospect.

Riordan found Nancy to be entirely different from her father in terms of professional attitude and personality. Describing her as “one of the sweetest people that I ever worked with,” he emphasised her warm nature and appreciation for the work being done. The conclusion of their collaboration left a lasting impression on him, as Nancy expressed her gratitude in a heartfelt manner. “At the end of the whole thing, she came up and gave me a kiss and thanked me for making her look good and so on,” Riordan recounted, illustrating the warmth and kindness that stood in stark contrast to his earlier experiences with her father.

The juxtaposition of these two figures within Riordan’s career highlights the varied personalities in the industry, even among those who share familial ties. His experiences offer a glimpse into the dynamics of Hollywood during the 1960s, reflecting both the glitz of fame and the complexities of working with high-profile stars.

As Riordan continues to reflect on his extensive career, it becomes clear that both the high-pressure environment of Hollywood and the individuality of its stars significantly shape the experiences of those who work behind the scenes. While he holds a deep appreciation for Sinatra’s artistry, Riordan’s candidness serves as a reminder that the creative process can be impacted by the personalities involved.

Now, as he shares these insights with a new generation through platforms such as podcasts, Riordan not only recounts his memorable moments in entertainment history, but also sheds light on the human aspects often overlooked in the limelight. His narrative is a testament to the complexities of collaboration in an industry that is frequently romanticised but also fraught with challenges.

In summary, Christopher Riordan’s stories about working with Frank and Nancy Sinatra offer a nuanced perspective on the entertainment industry, showcasing the diverse range of personalities among stars and the impact they have on those in their orbit. As Riordan reflects on his remarkable journey, his experiences serve as both intriguing anecdotes and valuable lessons about working collaboratively in the unique world of Hollywood.