William Powell with Jean Harlow, who died at 26, together in the movie "Libeled Lady." Powell spent his four high school years in Kansas City and Harlow was born there. (Associated Press)

William Powell, who defined "debonair," spent his formative high school years in Kansas City

Smooth-talking and witty – even as a teenager – William Powell took to acting as a student at Kansas City’s Central High School and followed his dream from there to the New York stage and finally to Hollywood. In the 1930s, he rose to film stardom in “The Thin Man” series with co-star Myrna Loy. He played a well-dressed private detective who solved crimes with a quick mind, a drink in hand and the help of Loy as his conversational sparring partner.
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HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE STAR'S ARCHIVES

Philo Tells All: Slick Sleuth Comes Clean and Admits Cheer Leading in Kansas City

Published Aug. 25, 1929

This is a fanciful interview between the police and fictional detective Philo Vance, aimed at spoofing actor William Powell.

Motion Picture Reviews: The Thin Man

Published June 3, 1934

Mystery gets the giggles and later the hiccoughs.

Obituary: William Powell, actor

Published March 8, 1984

Too few of today’s movie fans have had the chance to enjoy Mr. Powell’s talents.