James Cagney was an American actor who is best known for his roles in films such as Yankee Doodle Dandy, White Heat, and Angels with Dirty Faces.
Personal and Family Life
James Francis Cagney was born on July 17, 1899, in New York City to Carolyn and James Cagney Sr. He had two siblings, Jeanne and William. Cagney married Frances Cagney in 1922, and they had two children together—James Jr. and Casey. Cagney also had a mixed heritage, with Irish and Norwegian roots.
Career
Cagney began his career in vaudeville and transitioned to film in the early 1930s, quickly becoming known for his portrayals of tough-guy gangster roles. He was a versatile actor, also showcasing his dancing talent in musicals. His distinct voice and energetic performances made him one of the most recognized stars in Hollywood. He received an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of George M. Cohan in Yankee Doodle Dandy.
Death and Legacy
James Cagney passed away on March 30, 1986, in Stanfordville, New York, from a heart attack triggered by diabetes-related illness. He left behind a legacy as one of Hollywood’s greatest actors, remembered for his compelling screen presence and contributions to the film industry.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| One, Two, Three | 1961-12-15 | C.R. MacNamara |
| Yankee Doodle Dandy | 1942-05-29 | George M. Cohan |
| City for Conquest | 1940-09-21 | Danny Kenny |
| Ragtime | 1981-11-20 | New York Police Commissioner Rhinelander Waldo |
| The Seven Little Foys | 1955-09-30 | George M. Cohan |
| White Heat | 1949-09-02 | Arthur ‘Cody’ Jarrett |
| Angels with Dirty Faces | 1938-11-26 | Rocky Sullivan |
| Footlight Parade | 1933-10-21 | Chester Kent |
| The Public Enemy | 1931-04-23 | Tom Powers |
| Terrible Joe Moran | 1984-03-26 | Joe Moran |