The Lifelong Rhythm of Bobby Burgess

Born on May 19, 1941 — a birthday that marks the start of a remarkable journey — Bobby Burgess has spent a lifetime dancing under the spotlight. From his earliest steps as a child performer to his long-running success on television, his story is one of passion, persistence, and reinvention.

A Childhood of Dance and Early Stardom

Bobby Burgess, born Robert Wilkie Burgess in Long Beach, California, discovered a love for performance early. According to his own recounting, by the age of five he was already taking dance lessons and performing at talent shows. 

At age 14 — still just a teenager — Burgess earned a coveted place among the original cast of the The Mickey Mouse Club in 1955.  The show gave him his first national exposure, combining singing, dancing, and youthful charisma — a foundation that would define his professional life.

From Mouseketeer to Dance Icon on Television

When The Mickey Mouse Club ended in 1959, Burgess returned to normal life: he finished high school at Long Beach Polytechnic High, then attended Long Beach State University, where he joined Sigma Pi fraternity.

A dance contest held by the bandleader Lawrence Welk changed everything. Together with childhood friend and dance partner Barbara Boylan, Burgess entered the contest — dancing to Welk’s hit “Calcutta.” Their performance won first prize: an appearance on The Lawrence Welk Show.

What began as a one-off appearance soon blossomed into a decades-long professional commitment. Burgess and Boylan became regular cast members, later joined by other dance partners such as Cissy King and Elaine Balden. Over the years, Burgess became a fan favorite, known for his energetic dancing, charm, and versatility on stage.

Even after the show ended, Burgess remained connected to dance — touring with Balden, teaching at his own dance studio, and passing on his love for movement to new generations.

Life Beyond the Spotlight: Family and Personal Foundations

Behind the stage lights, Bobby Burgess built a grounded personal life. On February 14, 1971 — Valentine’s Day — he married Kristie Floren, daughter of longtime Welk accordionist Myron Floren. The couple have four children.

For many years, Burgess balanced the demands of performance with family life, choosing stability and continuity. Today, his personal legacy lies as much in his children and marriage as in the steps he once showcased on stage.

What His Net Worth Suggests About a Steady Career

Based on publicly available data, Burgess’s net worth is estimated to be around US$2.5 million. This figure may not place him among the highest-earning entertainers, but it reflects a solid, sustained career — one built over decades of performing, teaching, and leveraging a unique niche in dance and television.

Given the breadth of his experience — from child star to seasoned performer to dance instructor — that net worth speaks to consistent earnings over time, rather than a single blockbuster breakthrough. It underscores a professional path marked by reliability, adaptability, and hard work, rather than flash.

A Legacy of Joy, Discipline, and Dance

What stands out in Bobby Burgess’s life isn’t just the roles he played or the shows he danced on — it’s the continuity of his commitment. He didn’t simply fade away after early fame. Instead, he translated youthful energy into a lifetime of dance, mentoring, and steady presence in entertainment.

His birthdate — May 19, 1941 — marks not just a personal milestone, but the beginning of a journey that touched television history, influenced countless young dancers, and endured across changing times in show business. His birthday remains a quiet reminder of the enduring value of talent, discipline, and love for one’s craft.