Tony Curtis

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Tony Curtis, born Bernard Schwartz on June 3, 1925, in the Bronx, New York, was an iconic American actor whose career spanned over six decades.

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He arrived in Hollywood in the late 1940s following enlistment in the US Navy during WWII and signed with Universal Pictures, debuting with an uncredited appearance in Criss Cross (1949). Rising to fame in the 1950s, Curtis became known for his handsome looks, charm, and versatility on screen.

 

He starred in numerous classic films, including The Defiant Ones (1958), Spartacus (1960) and Some Like It Hot (1959) alongside Marilyn Monroe and Jack Lemmon, where his comedic flair earned him critical acclaim.

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He focused more on comedies during the 1960s but his turn in The Boston Strangler (1968) emphasised he could still impress in dramatic roles. He starred alongside Roger Moore in the early 1970s TV show The Persuaders and gradually began a slow withdrawal from screen acting, spending his later years concentrating on painting.

 

Despite facing personal challenges, including battles with addiction and health issues, Tony Curtis remained a beloved figure in the entertainment industry thanks to his undeniable talent and charisma. He passed away on September 29, 2010, leaving behind a rich legacy as one of Hollywood's most enduring and memorable stars.