Burt Lancaster

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Burt Lancaster, born in 1913 in New York City, was a versatile American actor and producer who left an indelible mark on the Golden Age of Hollywood.

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He started his working life as a circus acrobat but that ended following an injury and, after serving in WWII, a brief stint on Broadway led to an offer from Hollywood which began a 45-year career in films and television.

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His breakthrough was opposite Ava Gardner in Robert Siodmak's film noir The Killers (1946) and his athleticism and charisma were showcased in a variety of genres, from further gritty noirs to epic adventures and stirring dramas.

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Renowned for his rugged charm and commanding presence, Lancaster was an extraordinary popular leading man of his era. He received four Acadamy Award nominations during his career, including for the classic From Here to Eternity (1953), and he finally won for the role of con-man-turned-evangelist in Elmer Gantry (1960).

 

Off-screen, Lancaster co-founded a production company and used his platform to advocate for social causes, including civil rights and environmental conservation. His legacy as a talented actor and socially conscious advocate continues to inspire generations of performers and audiences alike.