Van Johnson, 1916-2008, a native of Newport and graduate of Rogers High School tried selling real estate for his dad, but after a year he departed for New York, where he eventually landed a part in a Broadway musical. After his role in “Pal Joey”, he was signed to a Hollywood contract by an MGM executive who saw this redheaded, freckled face Rhode Islander as the star with a long succession of outstanding roles. He did a turn on the vaudeville circuit, starred in television guest spots and numerous films.