[Nick in Toronto]

Here is a name of a legendary star of the ballet, who had music like Daphnus and Chloe expressly written for him. He lived until 1950 but no film of his dancing is known to exist. Baryshnikov and before him Nureyev are all but forgotten by todays generation, in spite of their achievements - and the world news they made defecting here in Toronto.

But Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly prevail in the memories of all those who watch the Late Movies, particularly around Christmas time.
So , perhaps it's a matter of how much material was and is available, and part of global culture.

If that is the case, then certainly Frank Sinatra will be remembered and revered by generations to come.