Arthur Freed

Arthur Freed (born Arthur Grossman, September 9, 1894 – April 12, 1973) was an American lyricist and film producer. He started his career as a song-plugger and pianist. After meeting Minnie Marx, the mother and manager of the Marx Brothers (famous vaudeville performers), he began co-working with them and writing songs and later was hired by MGM.
Freed was promoted to being the head of his own unit within MGM after producing two incredibly successful films – The Wizard of Oz and Babes in Arms. During his career he worked with many stars including Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra and Red Skelton. Two of his films – An American in Paris and Gigi – won the Academy Award for Best Picture.