Gene Kelly (1912-1996) was an actor, singer and dancer famous for his movie musicals, including An American in Paris (1951) and Singin' in the Rain (1952). He was the guest star on The Muppet Show episode 501. He has the distinction of being in the last episode taped (but not the last one aired).
He was a Kennedy Center Honoree in 1982.
Kelly died of stroke complications on February 2, 1996.