George C. Scott was an American actor who is best known for his roles in Patton, Dr. Strangelove, and Anatomy of a Murder. He was a celebrated figure in film, television, and theater, renowned for his distinctive raspy voice and his portrayals of strong, volatile characters.
Personal and Family Life
George C. Scott was born on October 18, 1927, in Wise, Virginia. He faced personal tragedy early in life when his mother passed away when he was just eight years old. Raised by his father, who worked as an executive at Buick, Scott later joined the United States Marines after high school. He had a rich family life, having been married several times, with children from multiple relationships.
Career Highlights
Scott’s acting career began to take off in the late 1950s when he gained attention for his role in the Broadway production of “Richard III.” He starred in several acclaimed films, like Anatomy of a Murder, which earned him his first Oscar nomination. Notably, he famously refused an Academy Award nomination for The Hustler. His portrayal of General George S. Patton in the film Patton solidified his legacy, earning him an Oscar, which he notably chose not to attend the ceremony for.
Death and Legacy
George C. Scott passed away on September 22, 1999, in Westlake Village, California, due to a burst abdominal aneurysm. His death prompted tributes from fellow actors and fans, who remembered him as one of the greatest actors in American history. Scott’s memorable performances and unique style left an indelible mark on the film industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Anatomy of a Murder | 1959-01-07 | Claude Dancer |
| Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb | 1964-01-29 | General “Buck” Turgidson |
| The Hustler | 1961-09-25 | Bert Gordon |
| Patton | 1970-01-25 | Gen. George S. Patton Jr. |
| The Changeling | 1980-03-28 | John Russell |
| Taps | 1981-12-20 | General Harlan Bache |
| A Christmas Carol | 1984-10-09 | Ebenezer Scrooge |