George Grizzard was an American actor best known for his roles on stage, television, and film, including “The Desperate Hours,” “Advise & Consent,” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”. He became a distinguished performer, particularly recognized for his work on Broadway.
Personal and Family Life
Born on April 1, 1928, in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, George Cooper Grizzard Jr. was raised in Washington D.C. after the age of seven and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1949. He had a long-term romantic partner, William Tynan, with whom he shared a home in Connecticut.
Career Highlights
Grizzard began his acting career under the guidance of renowned coach Sanford Meisner and quickly gained acclaim on Broadway. His roles in various productions like “The Happiest Millionaire” and “A Delicate Balance” earned him multiple Tony nominations, including a win for Best Actor in a Play in 1996. Known as an “actor’s actor,” he had a profound impact on theater for over five decades.
Death and Legacy
George Grizzard passed away on October 2, 2007, at a hospital in New York City due to lung cancer. He left behind a legacy of memorable performances in theater and television, influencing many aspiring actors throughout his career. His partner, William Tynan, was his only survivor.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Wrong Is Right | 1982-04-16 | President Lockwood |
| Bachelor Party | 1984-06-29 | Ed Thompson |
| Seems Like Old Times | 1980-12-19 | Governor |
| Comes a Horseman | 1978-10-25 | Neil Atkinson |
| From the Terrace | 1960-07-15 | Alexander ‘Lex’ Porter |
| Advise & Consent | 1962-06-06 | Senator Fred van Ackerman |
| Flags of Our Fathers | 2006-10-18 | John Bradley |
| The Oldest Living Graduate | 1980-04-07 | Floyd Kincaid |