Kirk Douglas

Updated: Dec 22, 2023

December 9, 1916 | Amsterdam, New York | #Actor #Producer #Author

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Unfortunately, this Actor passed away on: February 5, 2020

Kirk Douglas, born Issur Danielovitch on December 9, 1916, in Amsterdam, New York, was a legendary American actor, producer, and author. His career spanned over six decades, and he was known for his intense, muscular acting style and distinctive voice. Douglas grew up in a poor family with immigrant parents and six sisters, which fueled his drive to succeed.

After serving in the United States Navy during World War II, Douglas pursued acting. He first gained attention with his performance in "The Strange Love of Martha Ivers" (1946). His breakthrough role came with "Champion" (1949), which earned him his first Academy Award nomination. Douglas became a leading box-office star throughout the 1950s and 1960s, known for powerful performances in a variety of genres.

Douglas's most memorable roles include the titular character in "Spartacus" (1960), which he also produced. This film was significant not only for its critical and commercial success but also for its role in breaking the Hollywood blacklist by crediting blacklisted screenwriter Dalton Trumbo. Other notable performances include "Paths of Glory" (1957), "Lust for Life" (1956), where he portrayed Vincent van Gogh, and "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral" (1957).

Off-screen, Douglas was known for his philanthropy and authored several books, including his autobiography, "The Ragman's Son." He received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1981 and the Academy Honorary Award in 1996.

Douglas passed away on February 5, 2020, at the age of 103, leaving behind a legacy as one of Hollywood's most enduring and influential figures.

Notable Films: